"Forensic Science Institute - Full-Time, Tenure-Track Assistant Professor"

Job Details

Position Overview:

The Forensic Science Institute (FSI) at the University of Central Oklahoma is dedicated to comprehensive training and research for students, professionals, and first responders in all aspects of evidence collection, preservation, analysis, reporting, and testimony. The Institute is a leading provider of forensic science education at the undergraduate and graduate level through a robust, interdisciplinary program. The Forensic Science program is accredited at the undergraduate level by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) in all eligible disciplines including Forensic Molecular Biology, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Investigations, and Digital Forensics. The Forensic Science Institute has an experienced faculty representing international and national leaders in their respective fields.

The FSI has one newly created Forensic Chemistry position available to enhance and support the chemistry and leadership components of the FSI’s undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. The responsibilities of the selectee will be as follows: teach, advise, and mentor students; evaluate student performance; and maintain department and student records in accordance with university policies. Adhere to the educational philosophy of the university. Work in a collaborative manner with colleagues and professional peers. Participate in university meetings that relate specifically to faculty. Serve on department, college, and university committees as requested. Prepare departmental reports as requested. Engage in teaching, service, and scholarly and/or creative activities as defined by the tenure and promotion policy in the UCO Employee and Faculty Handbook.

Department Specific Essential Job Functions:

The selectee will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in forensic science with a focus on forensic chemistry. The selectee will assist the FSI Director in developing new courses in forensic chemistry as part of the forensic science curriculum. This curriculum will also include instruction regarding the legal requirements associated with the analysis of evidence in criminal cases and expert witness testimony regarding analytical efforts in a courtroom setting. The selectee will also be familiar with standards and accrediting bodies within the discipline including the Daubert standards related to evidence admission in courtrooms. The selectee will assist in the development of in-service training, career training, and continuing education in the forensic sciences. Teaching, research, Institute, and university service are expected as defined by the tenure and promotion policy in the UCO Faculty Handbook. The selectee will participate in undergraduate and graduate research activities, including but not limited to mentoring graduate projects, both theses and dissertations; mentor student presentations at Oklahoma Research Day, NCUR, and AAFS; and pursue external funding opportunities. The selectee will serve on Institute, college, and university committees as requested.

Qualifications/Experience Required:

An earned doctoral or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry, or related discipline is required. Previous forensic lab experience in forensic chemistry, including but not limited to chemistry, toxicology, controlled substance analysis, arson and fire debris analysis, explosives analysis, trace evidence chemistry, forensic environmental chemistry, and/or forensic analytical instrumentation specialization. Previous forensic lab management experience, including but not limited to casework and evidence management, personnel management, financial and resource management, quality assurance and accreditation, facilities management, health and safety management, and legal and ethical oversight.

Qualifications / Experience Preferred:

Previous teaching and mentoring experience in forensic chemistry at the college or university level. Demonstrated success in academic research through contributions to the body of scientific literature related to forensic chemistry, and professional presentations on the same, with the expectation of continuing to do so at a level that will garner national and international recognition. Membership in professional organizations within forensic chemistry, and/or board certification in forensic chemistry or related fields; for example, the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, National Safety Council, Society of Forensic Toxicologists, Board Certified in Forensic Toxicology, etc. Experience in expert and/or lay witness testimony in the field of forensic chemistry. Expertise, as well as proven success, in interagency collaboration and professional networking. Candidates will demonstrate the potential for excellence at all levels of the FSI undergraduate and graduate curriculum in forensic chemistry. Candidates will demonstrate the potential for undergraduate and graduate-level advising and mentoring.

Physical Demands:

Reasonable accommodations (in accordance with ADA requirements) may be made, upon request, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.