Assistant Professor of Plant Biology

Whitworth University

Salary: $59,572.00 - $63,718.00 Annually

Job Type: Faculty (tenure track)

Location: Whitworth University Campus

Department: Biology

Position Summary

Whitworth University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Plant Biology. We are seeking an individual with a strong background in plant biology, with possible specialization in plant ecology, forestry, or field botany. The position will begin in the fall of 2026. The typical teaching load is 21 credits across fall, January, and spring terms. The successful candidate will bring their strengths to our welcoming community and contribute to the Whitworth mission.

Department Overview

The Whitworth Biology Department emphasizes breadth of knowledge about all levels of the natural world and the practical application of that knowledge through faculty-student collaborative research. Whitworth exposes students to the major ideas of biology and their effects on how we view the meaning of life and human nature. At the same time, the department introduces students to the technical skills required for biology professionals and for graduate study in the field or laboratory. For more information, visit the https://www.whitworth.edu/cms/academics/biology/.https://www.whitworth.edu/cms/academics/biology/ 

Review of applications will begin immediately. For full consideration, please apply by October 3, 2025. Position will remain open until filled.

Core Responsibilities

The standard full-time teaching load is usually 21 credits. Key teaching duties may include, but are not limited to, introductory plant biology, ecology and evolution along with associated labs, introductory environmental science, and upper division field botany or forestry. In addition, the position requires involvement in advising, university service, maintaining an active research agenda, and engaging in departmental activities.

Qualifications and Core Competencies

• Doctoral degree in biology, botany, forestry, or related field.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith.
• The ability to communicate effectively in the language of instruction (English).
• A commitment to the educational mission of Whitworth as a Christian liberal arts institution.

Preferred qualifications

• Teaching experience at the college level.
• Experience teaching field-based courses.
• Education and/or research experience in environmental science and/or applied natural resource management disciplines such as field botany or forestry.

Other Details

Salary Information Assistant Professor, Plant Biology Term: 9 monthsHiring range: $59,572 to $63,718

Commensurate with years of credited service. 1.75% increase to the minimum salary is granted for each year of credited service at the rank of assistant professor.Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter addressing their qualifications, teaching effectiveness, and interest in the position.
• Curriculum vitae.
• A statement of teaching philosophy.
• A statement describing how their Christian faith shapes their approach to teaching and scholarship.
• Names and contact information of three references.

Whitworth University is a Christian liberal arts university. Our shared mission is to provide our diverse students with an education of mind and heart, equipping them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. We seek candidates who are willing to engage with the university's mission and integrate their Christian faith into their work. A background check, sexual misconduct check, proof of eligibility to work in the United States, and confirmation of degrees earned will be required of the successful candidate.

You are on this webpage because a position at Whitworth sparked your curiosity. If you find yourself questioning hitting the apply button because you might not meet 100% of the qualifications, we think you should do it! When you click apply and submit an application, your application is reviewed by a committee of real, living, and breathing human beings who want to understand your background, experience and skills to find ways you relate to the key competencies needed for success in the position.

Looking for resources to help with writing a faith statement? Check out our https://www.whitworth.edu/cms/administration/human-resource-services/faith-statement-resources/  for more information.

Whitworth complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws that are applicable to religious nonprofit institutions and does not engage in unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, sex, or disability. With our Christ-centered commitment to building a diverse and inclusive community, the university encourages applications from populations underrepresented at Whitworth including members of racial/ethnic communities, women, and persons with disabilities.

Online applications are stored on a secure site. Only authorized employees and hiring authorities have access to the information submitted.

It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.