Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Biology Education
Department of Biology
Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN
Middle Tennessee State University seeks applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Biology Education
starting August 2016. Although housed in the Department of Biology, the successful applicant will also support
the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Mathematics and Science Education (MSE). Responsibilities include
establishing an independent research program in biology education, disseminating scholarship in peer-reviewed
forums, seeking external funding to support research, teaching undergraduate courses in biology and/or
graduate courses in the MSE program, and providing service to the university and professional community.
Additional responsibilities include mentoring MSE Ph.D. Biology Education students and actively participating in
professional organizations. The tenure-track position is advertised at the Assistant or Associate level. The search
committee welcomes and encourages people who currently hold rank to apply for this position.
Qualifications:
Applicants must hold a terminal degree in Biology Education, Science Education or in Biology with a significant
focus in biology educational research by the appointment date; a strong background in current trends and issues
in science education research; evidence of success in biology education scholarship; evidence of implementation
of research-based, high-quality instruction; and an ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with
multiple audiences. Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree or significant graduate-level work in biology
and experience in applying for external funding.
MTSU Description:
MTSU is a DRU classified institution, located in Murfreesboro, TN, 30 miles southeast of metropolitan Nashville
and has a mission of excellence in teaching, research, and service. It is one of the largest universities in the state,
with approximately 23,000 students enrolled. MTSU began offering a Ph.D. in Integrated Mathematics and
Science Education in Fall 2010 and is one of the only universities in the country to offer a unique doctoral degree
specifically in disciplinary-based education research. The MSE program currently supports 36 graduate students
with about a quarter of those enrolled in the Biology Education concentration. The Biology Education
concentration currently employs four dedicated faculty housed within the Department of Biology. MTSU’s
Department of Biology also supports master’s and doctoral degrees in biology. For more information about the
university and the department, visit our web site at http://www.mtsu.edu.
Application Process:
To apply for the position, go to https://mtsujobs.mtsu.edu and follow the instructions on how to complete an
application, attach documents, and submit your application online. If you have questions regarding this process,
please contact Academic Affairs at 615-898-5128. A complete application packet will include: A cover letter
highlighting qualifications relevant to research, teaching and service; a current curriculum vitae; a teaching
philosophy statement; a research statement; up to three current publications (if relevant); and a list of up to three
references. The position will remain open until filled, but the committee will begin reviewing applications
November 9, 2015.
Dr. Grant Gardner serves as chair of the search committee. Specific inquiries into the position can be sent to
Grant.Gardner@mtsu.edu. General questions regarding the Department of Biology can also be directed to Dr.
Lynn Boyd Lynn.Boyd@mtsu.edu, Biology Department Chair.
Rank and salary commensurate with education and experience. Proof of U.S. citizenship OR eligibility for U.S.
employment will be required prior to employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986). Clery Act crime statistics
for MTSU available at http://police.mtsu.edu/crime_statistics.htm or by contacting MTSU Public Safety at 615898-2424.
MTSU, a culturally diverse university, is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educational institution and
employer. Women, ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.