Assistant Professor of Biology

The Department of Natural Sciences at Shawnee State University invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology position, beginning Fall 2026. 

The successful candidate will be expected to regularly teach botanical courses including plant taxonomy, plant anatomy and physiology, practical horticulture, dendrology; additional courses may include introductory biology courses, scientific reasoning and methodology, or field methods. The successful candidate will also manage a 1300 sq. ft. greenhouse and work with facilities/maintenance staff regarding plant care on campus; maintain Shawnee State’s Tree Campus USA status; advise undergraduate students; serve on department, college or university wide committees and engage in professional development/scholarship activities. Preference will be given to those candidates with prior teaching experience, and the potential for developing a research program involving undergraduate students. 
  
Shawnee State University is the regional state university for South-Central Ohio. It is a primarily undergraduate, four-year public university with limited graduate degree programs. Enrollment is approximately 3,500 students. Shawnee State is located on the Ohio River in Portsmouth, Ohio – a small city nestled in a beautiful, forested area. Adjacent to Portsmouth is Shawnee State Forest, the largest of Ohio’s state forests at more than 65,000 acres in size. This unique and diverse ecosystem offers faculty the opportunity to teach in the field and provides outdoor enthusiasts with recreational activities close to work.  

The search committee will review applications until the position is filled.  Initial review of applications will take place on 01/12/2026. Only online applications will be accepted.
Complete your application by clicking the Apply for this Job link above and include:
 

• a cover letter addressed to Michael Barnhart, Interim Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, specifically addressing how your qualifications meet the posted minimum requirements of the position;
• a CV;
• academic transcripts from all higher education institutions attended (official transcripts will be requested prior to hiring);
• a 1 to 2-page statement of teaching philosophy;
• a 1 to 2-page statement of research experience and interests;
• in the professional references section of your application, enter a minimum of three references who can confirm your experience and abilities to perform the responsibilities of this position. The references you provide will receive an email containing a unique link that allows them to upload your reference letter confidentially. Reference letters should be addressed to Michael Barnhart, Interim Dean, College of Arts & Sciences;

Candidates invited for an on-campus interview will be required to present a teaching demonstration of their instructional abilities. Specific questions regarding this position may be directed to Professor Chris Meade at cmeade@shawnee.edu.

Shawnee State offers a competitive salary (commensurate with experience and qualifications) including an attractive benefits package (see Overview of Employee Benefits for more information).  Employment with the University is dependent upon BOT budget approval for the fiscal year. Official transcripts and background check are required prior to hire. 

SSU seeks individuals who share our commitment to students as our first priority.

Shawnee State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University prohibits discrimination against any individual because of race, color, genetic information, religion, age, disability, national origin, ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or military status.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate degree or other terminal degree in botany, biology, or other relevant discipline; ABD will be considered, but terminal degree must be completed by time of appointment.
OR
Master’s degree in botany or a closely related field AND 3 years full-time teaching experience at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, or 5 years of professional experience in horticulture, forestry, agriculture, or other botany-related field.
Priority will be given to applicants with an appropriate doctoral degree.