"Open Rank - BioSciences"

The Department of BioSciences at Rice University (biosciences.rice.edu) invites applications for one open rank tenure-track position to begin July 1, 2026. Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, Rice University is a private and top-tier research institution. As a member of the Texas Medical Center, the world’s highest density of clinical facilities for patient care and biomedical research, Rice University represents a unique research ecosystem that enables local collaborative studies spanning basic science to clinical impact.

Research in the Department of BioSciences spans molecules, cells, organisms, and ecosystems. At the open rank level, we seek candidates with research programs in theoretical and computational neuroscience, including candidates who seek to understand nervous system structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and/or developmental levels. At the assistant professor level, we seek candidates who employ biophysical approaches, including scholars who are using molecular imaging to understand the structure and mechanism of molecules, macromolecular complexes, and cells. Candidates developing or incorporating predictive computational methods (LLMs and AI) to gain mechanistic insight into structure and mechanisms will also be considered. For both positions, we seek applicants whose scholarship will complement existing research in the BioSciences department. Successful candidates will lead a dynamic, innovative, and independent research program supported by external funding and will teach graduate and undergraduate courses.

In our candidate pools, we seek to attract greater representation of women, scholars of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and others who have historically been underrepresented in the biological sciences; accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff varied in background and thought; and maintain an environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our community. Candidates must have a PhD or equivalent degree in a biological science or a relevant field of natural science or engineering (and have completed the requirements for a PhD by July 1, 2026).

To apply, please submit the following materials online at https://apply.interfolio.com/172558: (1) cover letter; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) research statement (3 pages max); (4) statement of teaching philosophy (3 pages max); and (5) contact information for three references. The research statement and statement of teaching philosophy may also include plans for building a diverse and inclusive research group and fostering equitable and inclusive classrooms. Application review will commence on October 1, 2025, and will continue until the positions are filled. For additional information, please contact the search co-chairs, Drs. Rosa Uribe (ru5@rice.edu) and Joff Silberg (joff@rice.edu).