Assistant Professor of Biology - 2 Positions

Union College invites applications for two tenure-track positions: one in Microbiology and the other in Immunology, beginning September 1, 2027. Applicants must have a PhD in the respective field. Post-doctoral or comparable professional work is desirable. Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by October 1, 2026 will receive priority consideration.

Position descriptions:

We seek two biologists whose research addresses fundamental questions in, respectively, microbiology or immunology using cellular, molecular, and/or genetic approaches. We encourage all applicants with appropriate background and expertise to apply, particularly those candidates whose research investigates the cell/molecular mechanisms underlying microbial biology, immune function, or host-associated microbiome biology using modern and/or innovative experimental approaches (e.g., single-cell technologies, functional genomics, gene-editing, systems-level analyses, and/or bioinformatics techniques). Befitting the teacher-scholar model, our goal is to hire two outstanding colleagues with demonstrated commitments to both teaching and developing a successful research program that incorporates our students. Teaching responsibilities include an upper-level microbiology or immunology course with labs, contribution to the biology core curriculum at both the first and second-year level, and a course of their choice.

About the Biology Department:

The Department of Biological Sciences at Union College is committed to providing exceptional academic experiences and training for undergraduates seeking to understand what creates, sustains, and changes ourselves, other organisms, communities, and the environment. We contribute to numerous interdisciplinary programs including Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Science and Policy, Environmental Engineering, Public Health, Nanotechnology, and Neuroscience  (https://www.union.edu/interdisciplinary-studies). Housed in the newly-constructed Integrated Science and Engineering Complex, the Department is well equipped with modern instrumentation such as a microCT, multimodal microplate reader, confocal microscope, flow cytometer, cryostat, 3-D multi camera motion analysis system, Agilent Tapestation, Nanopore DNA sequencer, Qubit Fluorometer, RT-PCR instrument, scanning electron microscope, greenhouse space, growth chambers, and, sterile tissue culture and animal care facilities. We also have access to a continuous flow isotope mass spectrometer, elemental analyzer, and an ICPMS in Union College’s Stable Isotope and Geochemistry Laboratory as well as analytical chemistry instrumentation including FLPC, HPLC, and LCMS through the Chemistry Department. The College is situated in close proximity to a variety of terrestrial and aquatic habitats in the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains, and the Mohawk watershed.

We share Union College’s commitment to lead with wisdom, empathy, and courage, particularly as it relates to creating a welcoming environment where every member of our community is respected and valued.  We are committed to teaching and mentoring students, as well as supporting faculty, from a full range of backgrounds, perspectives, and identities.

Application instructions:

Please submit all application materials as pdf files. Only the materials listed below will be considered.

• Cover letter (please indicate which position you are applying for)

• CV

• Statement of Teaching Philosophy

• Statement of Research

Please send questions and other inquiries to Brian Cohen at [email protected]. Applicants invited to the first round of interviews will receive a request for the contact information for three professional references who can speak to their abilities in either Microbiology or Immunology

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $81,500-$83,500.  Except for roles with a set rate of pay, the wage/salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The stated hiring rate/range represents the College’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the rate/range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Location: Schenectady, NY

We offer exceptional benefits including:

• Healthcare: Medical (PPO & HDHP), Dental, and Vision Insurance (Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts)
• Free On-Campus Fitness Facility Access and Discounts for On-Campus Wellness Programs
• Pre and Post Tax participation in a 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Salary Continuation Program in the event of Disability
• Tuition Exchange

Background Checks: In accordance with our background check policy, finalists for hire will undergo a background check that includes education, employment, and criminal convictions.

E-Verify Participation: Union College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify and your Right to Work (Derecho a Trabajar).