Henry L. and Grace Doherty Chair Professor in Freshwater Ecology
University, MS, US, 38677
Note for Current UM Employees
Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu
Position Description
The Department of Biology at the University of Mississippi invites applications from exceptional ecologists for the Henry L. and Grace Doherty Chair in Freshwater Research. Applicants must vigorously pursue ecological research and teaching related to freshwater resources, and provide enthusiastic leadership that advances academic, governmental, and public knowledge and commitment towards ensuring uncontaminated water for all life. Well-qualified applicants are those that are appointable at the tenured Associate Professor level or above, have a strong and continuing record of both publication in the ecological sciences and obtaining competitive extramural funding, and already have, or show great promise for achieving, a national reputation in freshwater biology/ecology. This endowed position provides substantial annual research funds, a significant startup package supplemented with two annual graduate assistantships for the first five years, and a highly competitive salary. Continued success at obtaining external funding to advance freshwater/wetland biology research at the University of Mississippi is expected and required of the chair holder. This position will complement and extend existing departmental strengths in ecology and evolution, symbiosis and species interactions, biodiversity and conservation biology, cell and molecular biology, and neuroscience and behavior (https://biology.olemiss.edu), the multidisciplinary initiative of the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation Research (https://cbcr.olemiss.edu/) and collaboration with the local/regional scientists at the USDA, US Army Corps of Engineers, and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and other state agencies such as the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. In addition to proximity to the research opportunities of the Mississippi alluvial plain, there are natural and constructed wetlands, 200 constructed ponds, and natural springs and small streams available for research at the University's 740-acre Field Station, which also houses the Center for Water and Wetland Resources (https://fieldstation.olemiss.edu/)
The Department of Biology is a vibrant, broad-based department that consists of 23 tenure-track and 18 instructional faculty members, and educates over 900 undergraduate biology majors, 3300 non-majors and 55 graduate students (Ph.D. and M.S.). The Department of Biology recognizes the importance of building a diverse faculty and welcomes applicants from groups underrepresented in science. More information about the department can be found at https://biology.olemiss.edu/.
Position Details
Appointment: 9 Month
Assignment Type: Tenure Track
Minimum Qualifications
Well qualified applicants are those that are appointable at the tenured Associate Professor level or above, have a strong and continuing record of both publication in the ecological sciences and obtaining competitive extramural funding, and already have, or show great promise for achieving, a national reputation in freshwater biology/ecology.
Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.
Application Procedures
Applications are made at https://careers.olemiss.edu and should include: (1) a concise cover letter outlining interest and suitability for the position, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) a research statement of up to 5 pages, that also articulates a comprehensive plan for extramural research funding development catalyzed by a hypothetical $100,000 annual endowed research fund (4) a 2-page teaching statement, which includes experience and teaching interests, (5) a 2-page summary of plans for inclusive engagement with diverse communities and policy makers to achieve freshwater sustainability goals, and (6) names and contact information for at least five references.
Review of applications will begin October. 15th, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. The desired starting date is August 2025. Questions about this position should be addressed to the search committee chair, Dr. Richard Buchholz (byrb@olemiss.edu)
About the University of MS & Oxford, MS
Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.
Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.
Background Check Statement
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi