Associate/Full Professor

University of Alabama - Associate or Full Professor of Microbiology in Biological Sciences - Job # 527688

Position Summary
The Department of Biological Sciences at The University of Alabama invites applications for a position at the Associate/Full Professor level in Microbiology, as part of a microbiology focused cluster hire. The appointment will begin on August 16, 2026.

Detailed Position Information
The successful candidate for the position will be expected to lead an established research program focused on microorganisms. The search is open to all areas of microbiology, with particular interest in, but not limited to, host-pathogen interactions, microbial disease ecology, microbiomes, bacteriophages or synthetic biology. Research expectations include developing and sustaining an externally funded research program, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants should also demonstrate the ability to collaborate with faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences, as well as across other departments and research institutes (e.g., Alabama Life Research Institute or the Alabama Water Institute). Teaching responsibilities include basic undergraduate courses in microbiology or biology and graduate courses in the successful candidate’s area of expertise.

More information about the department can be found on the department’s website https://bsc.ua.edu/.

Questions about the position should be addressed to the co-chairs of the search committee, Dr. Julie Olson (jolson@ua.edu) and Dr. Melanie Higgins (mahiggins1@ua.edu).

Minimum Qualifications

The minimum qualifications for this position are a Ph.D. or an equivalent degree in microbiology, biological sciences, or a closely related field along with current or prior experience in a tenure-track or tenured faculty position (or equivalent). Candidates are expected to have a research track record commensurate with their career stage and have an established externally funded research program, as well as teach and mentor at the undergraduate and graduate levels effectively.

Preferred Qualifications
The successful candidate should have a strong record of achievement that demonstrates a national/international reputation, including an active and well-funded research program supported by multiple competitive external research grants. Candidates should also demonstrate an outstanding record of teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as a strong commitment to mentoring students and trainees.

Instructions and Required Materials for Application
Applicants should apply directly through the UA jobs website (https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/bcas-associate-or-full-professor-of-microbiology-in-biological-sciences-527688-tuscaloosa-alabama-united-states). Applications should include a cover letter, a current curriculum vitae, a research statement (maximum 3 pages) a teaching statement (maximum 1 page) and contact information for 3 letters of reference. The review of applications will begin December 1, 2025, and the review will continue until the position is filled.