The USD SSOM Assistant Professor (QE8972) Position: An Overview

The University of South Dakota (USD) Sanford School of Medicine (SSOM) is currently recruiting for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the Division of Biomedical and Translational Sciences, designated as QE8972 with posting number F01822P. This role focuses on Integrative Systems and Computational Biology and represents a prime opportunity for early-career researchers to lead innovative work at the intersection of computation and biomedicine. As part of the federally funded South Dakota Biomedical Computation Consortium (SDBCC), the position emphasizes developing an independent research program with translational potential, while contributing to educational missions.

Located initially in Vermillion, South Dakota, the division is set to relocate to Sioux Falls by summer 2027 alongside the first 18 months of the M.D. program. This move promises enhanced collaborations with clinical partners and expanded research infrastructure. For aspiring faculty members in higher education faculty positions, this opening stands out due to its generous support package and alignment with cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence in healthcare.

Key Responsibilities and Daily Work

In this role, the successful candidate will spearhead an innovative, independent research program likely to secure extramural funding. Expect to design and execute studies in computational biology, leveraging tools from systems biology, bioinformatics, and bio-engineering to address real-world biomedical challenges. Collaboration is key: you'll interact closely with division faculty whose expertise spans neuroscience, cardiovascular science, cancer biology, protein quality control, and microbiology/immunology.

Participation in the SDBCC's educational initiatives is central, potentially including mentoring graduate students, teaching in the Biomedical and Translational Sciences graduate program, and contributing to M.D. curriculum development. Research duties involve grant writing, publishing in high-impact journals, and utilizing shared cores like the Imaging Core, Proteomics Core, and Biomedical Computation Collaborative. Travel between Vermillion and Sioux Falls may occur during the transition period, ensuring smooth integration into the new Sioux Falls hub.

• Develop and lead a funded research lab focused on integrative systems modeling.
• Mentor Ph.D. and M.S. students in hands-on computational projects.
• Collaborate on interdisciplinary initiatives with Sanford Research and Avera affiliates.
• Contribute to symposiums like the annual SDBCC event.

Required Qualifications and Ideal Candidate Profile

To qualify, candidates need a Ph.D. (or equivalent terminal degree like M.D., D.V.M., Pharm.D., or M.D./Ph.D.) in Computational Biology, Systems Biology, Bio-engineering, Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Postdoctoral experience of at least 1-2 years is essential, demonstrating productivity in research, such as peer-reviewed publications and preliminary data for grant applications.

The ideal applicant thrives in collaborative settings, has a vision for translational research—bridging computational models to clinical outcomes—and possesses strong communication skills for teaching and interdisciplinary teamwork. Prior experience with AI-driven biomedical tools or large datasets (e.g., genomics, proteomics) is highly advantageous. This position suits postdocs eyeing higher ed career advice on transitioning to tenure-track roles in public universities.

Inside USD Sanford School of Medicine and the Division

The Sanford School of Medicine, South Dakota's sole medical school since 1907, trains physicians for rural and underserved areas through programs like Frontier and Rural Medicine (FARM). With over 300 academic faculty and 1,500 clinical faculty statewide, it fosters a culture of kindness, research, and community impact. The Division of Biomedical and Translational Sciences drives discovery in human disease, boasting strengths in key areas and state-of-the-art facilities including the Physiology Core for cardiovascular models and Neuroimaging Core.

Faculty like William Mayhan (cerebral microcirculation) and Xuejun Wang (proteolytic pathways) exemplify the division's vibrancy. The graduate program offers M.S./Ph.D. tracks with stipends up to $31,500/year for Ph.D.s, emphasizing lab-based training in cancer biology, neuroscience, and more. As a new hire, you'll join a team transforming students into scientists amid exciting growth.

The Role of the South Dakota Biomedical Computation Consortium

This position anchors in the SDBCC, a federally funded multi-institutional effort integrating AI, computation, and biomedicine. Launched recently, it hosts symposia (e.g., June 2025 inaugural event) uniting academia, industry, and government. Your research could advance AI solutions for patient care, from predictive modeling in neuroscience to drug discovery in cancer biology.

SDBCC provides networking, funding bridges, and collaborative projects, positioning you at South Dakota's forefront of computational health innovation. Links to USD's Computer Science AI Symposium amplify visibility and resources.

Research Support, Facilities, and Startup Package

USD SSOM offers exceptional resources: excellent startup funds (covering equipment, personnel), state-funded salary commensurate with experience (typically $90,000-$150,000 for assistant professors in biomedical fields), comprehensive state benefits, and retirement plans. Access cores like Proteomics (mass spectrometry), Behavioral Core (animal models), and Biomedical Computation Collaborative (AI tools).

The division's 40+ faculty and staff support grant success, with many affiliated to Sanford Research. Post-tenure reviews ensure growth, while relocation assistance aids the Sioux Falls transition. This setup rivals larger institutions for launching a lab.

Location Perks: From Vermillion College Town to Sioux Falls Hub

Vermillion, a walkable college town of ~11,000, offers low cost of living (median home ~$250,000), Missouri River recreation, and proximity to campus amenities. Residents praise safety, community events, and work-life balance, though amenities are modest compared to cities.

The 2027 move to Sioux Falls (pop. 200,000+) unlocks urban perks: international airport, dining, arts, top hospitals, and family-friendly suburbs. Half the division's faculty already commute from there, with relocation packages available. Professors appreciate the blend of rural charm and city access, ideal for families or outdoor enthusiasts. For more on professor salaries and lifestyles, explore our resources.

• Vermillion pros: Affordable housing, vibrant campus life, nature trails.
• Sioux Falls pros: Healthcare collaborations, cultural scene, no state income tax on retirement.

Why Apply? Career Growth and Impact

This role accelerates your trajectory: tenure-track security, funding runway, and SDBCC visibility fast-track grants (NIH, etc.). South Dakota's investment in biomed (rural health focus) yields high impact—your models could shape statewide care. Faculty report supportive mentorship, work-life balance, and student success (strong residency matches).

Unlike saturated urban markets, USD offers quicker independence. Aligns with trends in computational biomed, per recent symposia. Check the official job posting and division site for details. Perfect for those seeking meaningful higher ed jobs.

Navigating the Application Process Step-by-Step

Apply via USD's portal at yourfuture.sdbor.edu. First consideration: March 25, 2026; open until filled.

1. Prepare cover letter detailing research/teaching history and future plans.
2. Upload CV highlighting publications, grants, postdoc achievements.
3. Provide three references' contacts.
4. Submit by review date for priority.

Tailor to translational potential and SDBCC fit. Use our free resume template and cover letter template for academic apps.

Career Advice for Computational Biology Faculty Aspirants

Strengthen your packet with a 5-year research plan tying to division strengths. Network at SDBCC events. Highlight teaching via postdoc mentoring. For work-life balance, note SD's no-income-tax growth and family perks. Visit career advice for lecturer paths.

Photo by Babak Eshaghian on Unsplash

Future Outlook: Growth in South Dakota Biomed Computation

With SDBCC expansion, Sioux Falls relocation, and state priorities on AI-health, this hire pioneers a hub. Expect rising funding, student influx, and national collaborations. USD's rural focus ensures lasting impact.

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