BACKGROUND

The Biological Sciences Department at Salem International University is expanding and we are looking to add a molecular biologist / geneticist to our faculty. This faculty member will both contribute to the academic rigor in this area as well as participate in the creation of a new program in the area of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics.

Salem International University is a small, private institution in the beautiful hills of West Virginia. We are unique in our mission, in that we are dedicated to the education of an international student body, in a way that provides each student with the tools and the perspectives to move forward in their professional as well as personal lives, with the international perspective that can only come from living in a multicultural intellectual as well as interpersonal environment. As testament to this, the current student body has representatives from 32 different countries.

The Biological Sciences Department at Salem International University is based in the Carlson Hall of Science, which is exceptionally well equipped, both with the traditional tools of modern biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as being the hub of an internet-wired campus. The department is dedicated to the education of its students using a very interactive and hands-on approach. We are in the process of re-shaping our curriculum to emphasize three things: 1) the teaching of science from the perspective of how scientists actually learn; 2) the teaching of science in a cross-disciplinary and integrated approach; and 3) the use of laboratory experiences to reinforce the learning process. We are looking for someone who wants to be totally engaged in the development of this department and, as a result, this institution.

REQUIREMENTS

The ideal candidate will be energetic, both intellectually and as a leader of young students, as well as someone who embraces the entire culture of teaching and personal mentoring. The ideal candidate will have an academic background centered in modern molecular biology, including biochemistry, genetics, and immunology, and the ability to apply that to the development of a bioinformatics program. The candidate will be comfortable working as a teammate with colleague faculty possessing great breadth of expertise. The ideal candidate has either an earned doctorate, or ABD, in a relevant field of study.

HOW TO APPLY

The position reports to the Chair of Biological Sciences. Applications should include a cover letter, a full academic CV, a one-page vision statement of a plan to incorporate undergraduate research into the day-to-day educational experiences of the undergraduate student body, and a list of at least three academic and professional references. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications. Questions may be addressed to bertocci[at]salemiu.edu. Applications in hard copy should be directed to: Loren A. Bertocci, Chair of Biological Sciences, Salem International University, 233 Carlson Hall, Salem WV 26426. Questions may be directed either via email at bertocci[at]salemiu.edu or to 304-782-5575. This position has an intended start date of 3 January 2005.