Active Teaching Coordinator and Open-rank Instructional Professor

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 is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented individual to join our department as the Laboratory Coordinator for our two non-Biology majors courses: BISC110: human biology and BISC111: ecology and evolution. These courses are centered on active learning and taught in technology-enabled active learning (TEAL) classrooms in the University’s new Duff Center for Science and Technology Innovation. This key team member will be responsible for coordinating activities and materials for all sections of both courses and required to teach a section of either course. This is a 9-month, non-tenure-track, permanent position with health and retirement benefits. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. 

The Department of Biology is a vibrant, broad-based department of 43 faculty members that educates over 900 undergraduate biology majors and 3300 non-biology majors each year and currently is training more than 60 graduate students (Ph.D. and M.S.). More information about the department can be found at https://biology.olemiss.edu/.

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of the laboratory coordinator position will include but are not limited to:
Classroom Activity Management:
- Prepare classrooms for a given day’s learning activities, including copying of materials, distributing materials within each room, and preparing specimens and props required for activities;
- Monitor classes and be available to respond or resolve logistical issues that arise to minimize disruptions and ensure smooth operations for all classes.
Materials/Supplies Management:
- Order, receive, perhaps collect from nature, and manage materials, reagents, and perishable supplies needed for all sections of both classes;
- Maintain inventories for both classes, repair models, and schedule equipment maintenance;
- Maintain thirty loaner laptops for both classes;
- Maintain organization and supplies in the three prep rooms that support the two classes.
Teaching Assistant Oversight and Support:
- Assist faculty in recruiting, training, and mentoring teaching assistants for all sections of both courses; hold at least one weekly meeting to prepare for upcoming class activities;
- Assist instructional faculty as necessary to provide access to necessary platforms (e.g., Blackboard, Achieve) and to handle logistical details such as requesting/providing room access and scheduling safety training (if necessary); and
- Oversee lab setup and teardown.
Curriculum development and instruction:
- Contribute to the development, modification, and refinement of active learning course materials, syllabi, and grading systems.
- This position will carry a 1/1 teaching load in BISC 110 or BISC 111. 

Position Details

Appointment: 9 month

Assignment Type:Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

●    Ph.D. from an accredited university in Biology or a related field. 
●    At least 2 years previous experience teaching non-biology majors and a demonstrated commitment to pedagogical innovation is required.
●    Knowledge of instructional laboratory practices and procedures is required.
●    Strong interpersonal communication skills and an ability to work with a diverse team of instructional faculty are required.
●    Sound reasoning, analytical thought, attention to detail, creativity, high levels of organization, and innovation in solving minor problems that occur day-to-day are required.
●    Proficiency with University learning management systems (particularly Blackboard), relevant computer software (e.g., Word, Excel), and online platforms (Google Drive, Docs, Sheets) is required.  Experience with McGraw-Hill Connect is desirable.
●    Excellent verbal and written communication skills are preferred.

Application Procedures

Applications are made at https://careers.olemiss.edu and should include: (1) a concise (1-2 page) cover letter outlining interest and suitability for the position; (2) curriculum vitae (no page limit); (3) a 2-page teaching statement, which includes experience and teaching interests; and (4) names and contact information for at least three references.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled with a starting date in August 2025.  Questions about this position should be addressed to the search committee chair, Dr. Tiffany Bensen (tabensen@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

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.