The Center for the Study of Biological Complexity (cbds.vcu.edu) at Virginia Commonwealth University invites applications for a full-time renewable (non-tenure track) faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Bioinformatics/Data Science with an anticipated start date of August 2021. As part of VCU Life Sciences (lifesciences.vcu.edu), the Center is committed to interdisciplinary training and research in biological data science. The Center administers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Bioinformatics and participates in the interdisciplinary Integrative Life Sciences doctoral program, also housed within VCU Life Sciences. Additional units and resources within VCU Life Sciences include the Center for Environmental Studies, Center for Life Sciences Education, the Rice Rivers Center, and the Center for High Performance Computing.
We seek a broadly trained computational scientist who will conduct research and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Bioinformatics programs. Successful candidates will be expected to teach innovative courses in programming with Python, biological informatics, data science, or computational biology; mentor undergraduate and graduate students; and have a commitment to outreach and service both within and beyond the University community.
Required Qualifications: A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in bioinformatics, data sciences, computer science, biological sciences, biological education, or a related field; demonstrated experience in teaching and mentoring students, including the ability to teach an introductory undergraduate Python course; a significant commitment to bioinformatics or biological data science research and development; demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment, or commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU.
Preferred Qualifications: Postdoctoral experience in biological sciences, data sciences, bioinformatics, or a related field at the time of appointment; demonstrated experience in development of teaching materials and assessment of student learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels; demonstrated interest and experience in biological or computational science pedagogy; demonstrated ability working with a diverse student population; a demonstrated record of publications; and potential to develop a collaborative research program in data science or bioinformatics.
Interested applicants must apply online at www.vcujobs.com/postings/101081 with (1) a Cover Letter/Letter of Application which includes (a) a statement and description of teaching philosophy and experience, (b) a research statement, and (c) contact information for three references; (2) CV; and (3) a statement of contribution to diversity, equity, and inclusion.*
*As a preeminent national, urban, public research university and academic health center, Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to organizational diversity, equity and inclusion – an environment where all can thrive in their pursuit of excellence.
Applicants are requested to submit a Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (typically between 150-300 words) providing your career aspirations and contributions toward promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through this statement, you can share how your lived experiences, and academic and professional activities will impact your contribution to VCU’s mission of promoting equity and inclusion.
Note: Examples include working with others to further the goals of equity and inclusion; leading in any capacity that tangibly promotes an environment where diversity is welcomed, fostered, and celebrated; creative activity, research and scholarship that promotes equity and parity; teaching and mentoring students, and/or engaging with faculty and/or staff from traditionally underrepresented groups to create a positive and successful organizational experience.
More information can be found at provost.vcu.edu/faculty/prospective/