Otterbein University is seeking applicants for the position of tenure-track Assistant Professor of Chemistry with expertise in organic chemistry. We seek candidates with a demonstrated commitment to undergraduate teaching and research, as well as to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who will contribute to the department's efforts to enhance diversity and provide an inclusive learning environment for all.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Our new colleague will demonstrate excellence in teaching and mentoring a diverse student population. They will teach a 3-4 load(a total of 21 workload hours for the academic year), which includes teaching courses in Chemistry, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (BMB) and our general education programs. Specific courses will include Organic Chemistry, upper-level Chemistry or BMB courses, a 1000-level class, and a general education course that matches their interest. Successful candidates are also expected to develop and maintain an active and engaging research program with undergraduate students and to participate in service at departmental and university levels. New faculty are eligible for start-up funds, research lab space, and a reduced instructional workload during their first year to establish a research program, along with opportunities for ongoing professional development funding and support from our Center for Teaching and Learning.
QUALIFICATIONS
A Ph.D. in one of the following: Bio-organic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry with significant training in Biochemistry, or Biochemistry with significant training in organic chemistry. Evidence of previous teaching experience while in graduate school or beyond. Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and propose research that is suitable for work with undergraduate students at Otterbein. The candidate should have a commitment to teaching in a comprehensive liberal arts-based institution. Both a Ph.D. and postdoctoral experience in organic chemistry are preferred.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
WHEN:This appointment begins August 2025.
COMPENSATION: For the rank of Assistant Professor - $61,000 (plus full University benefits).
DEPARTMENT: The Department of Chemistry is a vibrant community consisting of six full-time and several part-time faculty who prepare diverse and talented students to become competent scientists through sound curricular programming, dedicated faculty, and appropriate facilities and equipment. Faculty members have been successful in securing funding to support research and teaching/learning initiatives. We offer three majors - B.A. in Chemistry, B.S. in Chemistry, and B.S. in Environmental Chemistry - and a Chemistry minor. Our program leading to a B.S. in Chemistry is certified by the American Chemical Society, and the Department is also integral to our interdisciplinary Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program, which is among the largest majors on campus. The Chemistry Department has been successful in earning grants from the National Science Foundation (S-STEM and RUI) and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (Inclusive Excellence).Visit us at https://www.otterbein.edu/chemistry/tolearnmore about the Department of Chemistry and https://www.otterbein.edu/bmb/tolearnmore about our BMB program.
OTTERBEIN UNIVERSITY: Historically progressive. That is the hallmark of Otterbein University and those connected to this private university nestled in the picturesque, historic Uptown Westerville district in central Ohio and minutes away from Columbus, Ohio's largest city. Otterbein has set the pace by providing an educational experience that is progressive, innovative, and inclusive. Students come from towns throughout Ohio, as well as many states and multiple countries, enriching the campus through their individual and collective diversity. As a university that educates students of various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, we strive for and value a diverse faculty and staff that reflects our student population and Franklin County. Otterbein is the first university in Ohio to be selected by the American Association of Colleges and Universities to host a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Center. Otterbein will work with its own campus community as well as the Columbus City and Westerville City school districts to create positive narrative change about race; promote racial healing activities; and erase structural barriers to equity and opportunity. To learn more about Otterbein, visit www.otterbein.edu.
WHERE: Otterbein University is located in Westerville, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, and has received notable national designations, including two appearances on Money Magazine's Top 100 list of Americas' 'Best Places to Live' and recognized as one of Forbes 'America's Friendliest Towns.' Westerville has a population of approximately 37,000 people and combines the beauty and convenience of a medium-sized community with the cultural, educational, and economic benefits of Columbus, the state capital, a thriving and diverse metropolitan area of 1.4 million people. Central Ohio is the fastest growing area in the state with stability provided by a diversified economy.
APPLICATION: To apply submit (1) a cover letter; (2) your curriculum vitae; (3) your teaching philosophy (not more than 3 pages); (4) your research plans including how undergraduate students would be involved (not more than 4 pages); (5) three references; and (6) a diversity statement consisting of no more than one single-spaced page, addressing the following two questions: How has a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion informed your teaching, scholarship, and/or professional experience to date? How do you see yourself contributing to Otterbein's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion? Priority review will be given to applications received by November 25, 2024.
Otterbein considers diversity and inclusion as integral parts of the University's achievement of excellence. We welcome applications from candidates from groups that have been historically underrepresented in chemistry and in higher education. Otterbein University is an EEO Employer.
UNIVERSITY SUMMARY: Historically progressive and building. That is the hallmark of Otterbein University and those connected to this private university nestled in the picturesque, historic Uptown Westerville district in central Ohio and minutes away from Columbus, Ohio’s largest city. Otterbein has set the pace by providing an educational experience that is progressive, innovative, and inclusive. Students come from towns throughout Ohio, as well as many states and multiple countries, enriching the campus through their individual and collective diversity. As a university that educates students of various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, we strive for and value a diverse faculty and staff that reflects our student population and Franklin County. Otterbein has been selected as one of 23 universities across the US and the first in Ohio to host a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Center. Otterbein will work with its own campus community as well as the Columbus City and Westerville City school districts to create positive narrative change about race; promote racial healing activities; and erase structural barriers to equity and opportunity.