INTRODUCTION

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) at the University of Connecticut (UConn) invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Population Genetics or Population Genomics at the Assistant Professor level. The Department seeks a research scientist who conducts innovative research on population genetics or population genomics to answer important questions about evolutionary processes, ecology, systematics, epidemiology, or conservation biology. The research could include the development of new analytical theory in population genetics, creation of cutting-edge statistical tools or software for population genetic inferences, or application of advanced theory or statistics to empirical data to draw inferences about evolution or related fields. Candidates may focus on the population genetics of single loci, genomes, or evolutionary quantitative genetics. Empirical research, if any, may be focused on any taxonomic group(s). 

This position builds on Departmental strengths in ecology, evolution, systematics, organismal biology, and conservation biology. The Department offers a highly collaborative environment at a leading public research university that is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. More information about the Department can be found at https://www.eeb.uconn.edu. EEB’s Biodiversity Research Collections (https://biodiversity.uconn.edu) comprise outstanding collections of vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants. Departmental foci are complemented by faculty in intersecting departments, Molecular and Cell Biology; Physiology and Neurobiology; Statistics; Natural Resources and the Environment; Marine Sciences; Anthropology; Plant Sciences; and Animal Sciences, as well as the Institute for Systems Genomics. Faculty in several other departments add additional strength in bioinformatics, and faculty at the UConn Health Center and the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine contribute substantial strength in human population genomics. In addition, the University is embarking on an endeavor to strengthen our ability to analyze big data that will create many additional opportunities for the successful candidate.

The successful candidate will be expected to: (1) supervise an independent research program that will attract extramural funding, provide research training for graduate and undergraduate students, and offer professional service to the Department and University; (2) teach an undergraduate course, and a graduate-level population genetics class, using effective evidence-based teaching methods; (3) mentor students in research, outreach, and professional development; and (4) broaden participation of members of underrepresented groups, engage diverse groups through research, teaching, and public engagement, and exhibit skill in using pedagogical techniques designed to meet the needs of individuals with diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and intellectual interests.

Founded in 1881, UConn is a Land Grant and Sea Grant institution and member of the Space Grant Consortium. It is the state’s flagship institution of higher education and includes a main campus in Storrs, CT, four regional campuses throughout the state, and 13 Schools and Colleges, including a Law School in Hartford, and Medical and Dental Schools at the UConn Health campus in Farmington. The University has approximately 10,000 faculty and staff and 32,000 students, including nearly 24,000 undergraduates and over 8,000 graduate and professional students. UConn is a Carnegie Foundation R1 (highest research activity) institution and is among the top 25 public universities in the nation. Through research, teaching, service, and outreach, UConn embraces diversity and cultivates leadership, integrity, and engaged citizenship in its students, faculty, staff, and alumni. UConn promotes the health and well-being of citizens by enhancing the social, economic, cultural, and natural environments of the state and beyond. The University serves as a beacon of academic and research excellence as well as a center for innovation and social service to communities. UConn is a leader in many scholarly, research, and innovation areas. Today, the path forward includes exciting opportunities and notable challenges. Record numbers of undergraduate applications and support for student success have enabled the University to become extraordinarily selective.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A Ph.D. or equivalent in ecology and evolutionary biology, biology, biostatistics, or a related field by time of appointment. Equivalent foreign degrees are acceptable.
• At least two publications in peer-reviewed journals, presenting novel research in population genetics.
• Ability to teach population genetics and related topics in evolutionary genetics or genomics, using innovative and effective pedagogical methods. 
• Demonstrated understanding of barriers to equitable outcomes in STEM fields; and a demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion through research, teaching, and/or public engagement via past actions, lived experience, or a detailed plan for future work.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A record of, or potential for, excellence in teaching and mentoring.
• A sustained history of fostering and supporting diversity, inclusion, and equity, and a plan to do so in the EEB Department and the University.
• Potential to establish an internationally recognized research program using empirical or theoretical population genetics to make conceptual advances in evolution, ecology, or conservation.
• Experience with the development or use of theory, statistical, or computational methods in population genetics.
• A strong record of publishing innovative population genetics research in respected peer-reviewed journals.
• Postdoctoral research in population genetics.
• A strong record of extramural funding (e.g., fellowships or grants) relative to career stage.
• A research program that complements and expands the Department’s strengths.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position with an anticipated start date of August 23, 2023. The successful candidate’s academic appointment will be at the Storrs campus. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online to Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/23025 and submit the following application materials:

• A cover letter,
• Curriculum vitae,
• Research and scholarship statement (3 pages maximum; include research accomplishments, short-term and long-term research plans, and experience in grant proposal development. This statement should describe the big picture implications of your research, how your program may move your field forward, and the innovative concepts that will form the basis of your academic career. Figures or citations should fit within the allotted length.);
• Teaching statement (2 pages maximum; include teaching philosophy, experience, approaches to effective learning, and interests in teaching particular courses as well as mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students.);
• Commitment to diversity statement (2 pages maximum; Describe your overarching philosophy as well as planned activities to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion and to meet the needs of diverse learning styles at UConn. This statement might also include activities you have engaged in to enhance diversity and broaden participation in science (e.g. race, gender, sexuality, ability), through service, instruction, or research);
• Sample journal articles or books,
• Names and contact information for 3 letters of reference (The search committee will request letters directly from these contacts after the first-round review of applications).

To ensure full consideration, applications should be received by November 1, 2022.

For more information regarding the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, please visit the Department's website at https://eeb.uconn.edu. For questions about the application system and process, please contact Nick Boston (nicholas.boston@uconn.edu), and for questions directly related to the search, email the search committee chair, Dr. Daniel Bolnick (daniel.bolnick@uconn.edu).

At the University of Connecticut, our commitment to excellence is complemented by our commitment to building a culturally diverse community.

This job will be filled subject to budgetary approval.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce.  The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner.  This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all.  We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.