The Hope College Biology Department invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor of molecular biology to join our vibrant community of teacher-scholars beginning July 2026. We seek an excellent scientist with a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and mentorship in a liberal arts context.

 

The successful candidate will develop a vigorous, externally funded research program that addresses fundamental questions in Molecular Biology, including but not limited to areas such as structural biology, single-cell analysis, and genomics or other -omics. Areas may include integration of data science or artificial intelligence approaches. Research programs should actively engage undergraduate students as collaborators and contribute to the department’s dynamic academic environment. Generous start-up funds, laboratory space in the Schaap Science Center, access to excellent shared facilities and instrumentation, and a one-course reduction during the academic year support research efforts. In addition, Hope maintains a robust summer research program that provides opportunities for student-faculty collaboration. Hope College is among the nation’s foremost colleges and universities for extensive research activity, including being among the top 30 undergraduate-only institutions, according to the Carnegie classification of institutions of higher education.

 

Primary teaching responsibilities include Genetics and Molecular Biology, which are central to both Biology and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (BMB) majors. The candidate will also contribute to introductory courses in General Biology and will have the opportunity to develop advanced courses and labs in the candidate’s area of expertise.

 

The Biology Department offers a robust and comprehensive major, valuing rigorous scientific inquiry and emphasizing the centrality of evolution as a unifying principle in biology and the foundation of all biological processes. Our faculty collaborate closely in interdisciplinary programs such as BMB, Neuroscience, and Data Science. The position is expected to support strong interactions with the accredited BMB program, in particular. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and collegial environment. We seek candidates who can inspire students to explore biology through evidence-based learning and who are committed to fostering a deep understanding of the discipline.

 

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Biology Department website to learn more about our mission, vision, and faculty research interests: http://www.hope.edu/academic/biology/.

 

Successful applicants will demonstrate a commitment to all aspects of Hope College’s mission as a liberal arts college. We are grounded in robust ecumenical Christian aspirations and daily strive for inclusive excellence. As part of the application, we ask all candidates to describe how they will engage and support the holistic mission of the College, particularly how their commitment to the Christian faith, the liberal arts, and inclusive excellence shapes their approaches and identities as teachers, scholars, and mentors. More guidelines for Hope College candidate’s response to the mission statement can be found at hope.edu/jobs.

 

Hope College is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that values diversity among its faculty and staff. Our focus is on preparing students for successful careers in a multicultural nation and global community. We warmly welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and cultures to join our inclusive community. Hope College is an equal-opportunity employer.

Special Instructions to Applicants

 

Review of applications begins November 7, 2025. Please submit by that date to receive full consideration. Candidates should upload the following documents as part of their application:

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vitae

3. Response to Hope College’s mission that includes, in particular, how you would support two core dimensions of the mission: (a) your engagement with Hope’s Christian aspirations and how this shapes your teaching, scholarship and student mentoring, and (b) how you would support and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at Hope College. Please limit it to two pages.

4. Please provide a research statement that showcases your research interests, objectives, accomplishments, and highlights your commitment to engaging undergraduate students in your research endeavors. Your research statement should include the following elements: Clearly articulated research goals and objectives, emphasizing their significance and potential impact; Summary of your research experience, including previous projects, publications, and collaborations; Explanation of how you will actively involve undergraduate students in your research activities and projects; Examples of how you communicate research findings and concepts effectively to undergraduate students, fostering their understanding and enthusiasm for the subject matter. Please limit it to five pages.

5. Teaching statement that reflects your pedagogical approach, philosophy, and strategies. Your teaching statement should include your teaching goals and objectives; Effective methods of engaging diverse learners and promoting inclusive education; Integration of innovative teaching techniques and technologies; Description of how you would assess student learning and adapt teaching strategies accordingly; Examples of courses you have taught or plan to teach, highlighting any specialized areas of expertise. Please limit it to three pages.

6. Unofficial Transcripts (college and graduate)

This position requires remaining in a sitting or standing position for frequent periods of time; uses office machinery such as a computers, printers, copy machines; Occasionally involves moving items over 10 pounds; frequently will move between different offices/workspaces/buildings; and requires effective communication abilities. In the case of temporary or permanent condition(s) that require(s) accommodation(s), reasonable accommodation(s) may be requested.

“All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check. Some positions may have position specific requirements, such as education/licensure/certification verification, a physical, drug screening, credit checks and/or transportation record review.”