Assistant Professor of Biology

Transylvania University (www.transy.edu) invites applications for a 9-month, tenure-track position in Biology, beginning August 25, 2027. The biology program prepares students for traditional fields of study as well as emerging fields such as biophysics, bioinformatics and molecular genetics. The science of biology plays a central role in important issues like global climate change, stem cell research and ecological restoration, as well as global health issues such as avian influenza, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. Our biology degree graduates actively engage these issues, both as researchers in the laboratory and as medical personnel on the front lines.

Why Join Transylvania University?

Founded in 1780, Transylvania University is one of the nation’s oldest institutions. Ranked in the Top 100 Best Liberal Arts colleges for 2025 by Niche, we’re a vibrant campus in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky full of curious minds, creative energy, and people who genuinely love what they do. We are mentors and community builders who help shape the next generation of thinkers, creators and leaders. We cultivate independent thinking, open-mindedness, creative expression and commitment to lifelong learning and social responsibility in a diverse world. With approximately 1,000 students, Transylvania is a student-centered institution with small class sizes. We offer additional opportunities for travel and team-taught courses, and a focus on experiential learning.

Who are we looking for?

Eligible candidates will have a Ph.D. by the start date. All research areas will be considered but a specialization in Eukaryotic Molecular Biology, Eukaryotic Genetics and/or Developmental Biology is preferred. The successful candidate will have a commitment to teaching, value interdisciplinary dialogue, and work collaboratively with other faculty. The teaching load consists of two classes with laboratory sections per regular term and a single class during May term (2-2-1). Responsibilities include:

• Teach (1) upper-level Eukaryotic Molecular Biology course (2) introductory Cells and Molecules course, and (3) biology electives in their specialty (e.g. stem cells, cancer biology, developmental biology, regenerative medicine, genetics, or genomics/bioinformatics).
• Occasional contributions to First-Year programing and service as an academic adviser.
• Other responsibilities include academic scholarship/professional activity, preferably involving undergraduate students, and service to the university through various committee appointments.

How do you apply?

Qualified candidates should submit a single PDF including:

• a cover letter that describes an upper-level course you would want to develop
• curriculum vitae
• statement of teaching philosophy
• statement of research philosophy that would include undergraduates in a liberal arts setting
• unofficial graduate transcripts
• list of at least three professional references

The successful candidate will be asked to provide official graduate transcripts and be subject to a background check. Send questions specific to this search to Dr. Paul Duffin, search committee chair, at pduffin@transy.edu.