The Department of Biological Sciences at SUNY Oswego is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, particularly in botanical sciences, with faculty members deeply engaged in both research and student-centered teaching. Equipped with advanced facilities like the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Center and the Rice Creek Field Station, the department provides students with hands-on learning experiences that are rare in undergraduate education.
SUNY Oswego’s Department of Biological Sciences also emphasizes community engagement and environmental stewardship, supporting initiatives like the Bee Campus USA program to promote native plant and pollinator diversity on campus. Faculty and students alike participate in these outreach efforts, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and conservation.
This commitment extends to research partnerships facilitated by SUNY Oswego’s affiliation with the Great Lakes Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, which opens doors to collaborations with federal agencies. By integrating high-impact research, community-focused projects and a dedication to diversity, the department not only shapes well-rounded students but also contributes to broader ecological and educational advancements.
Department Overview:
The Department of Biological Sciences is distinguished by a faculty deeply committed to excellence in teaching, research and community service. By fostering close student-faculty interactions, we aim to cultivate a learning-focused environment where knowledge exploration is central to every student’s academic journey. Equipped with advanced facilities and instruments dedicated to teaching and research, our department specializes in undergraduate education, providing students with valuable hands-on experiences. Shared resources, such as the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Center, Great Lakes Institute, microscopy suites and the expansive 400-acre Rice Creek Field Station, further enhance learning. Additionally, we have specialized facilities, including a greenhouse, herbarium, animal care centers and a core histology lab, to support diverse educational needs.
Botanical Heritage and Community Engagement:
Our department has a strong tradition in botanical studies and community engagement. We maintain a meticulously curated herbarium with over 40,000 specimens, currently supported by a $220,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This grant has allowed for the digitization of our collections, now accessible through the Consortium of Northeastern Herbaria. Our rooftop greenhouse, spanning approximately 1,250 square feet, houses more than 220 plant species and serves as an accessible space for both classes and research initiatives. Faculty actively engage in campus and public outreach, including initiatives to re-landscape campus gardens to highlight Great Lakes native plant communities and pollinator diversity, supporting the Bee Campus USA initiative. Furthermore, SUNY Oswego’s membership in the Great Lakes Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit creates avenues for research partnerships and funding from various federal agencies, bolstering our research capabilities and engagement.
Position Announcement:
The Department of Biological Sciences at SUNY Oswego is accepting applications for an Assistant Professor of Botany.
- Posting Date: October 21, 2024
- Review Date: Applications will be reviewed as they arrive and will continue until the position is filled.
- Compensation: Salary begins at $63,000, commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive New York State benefits package.
- Benefits Information: SUNY offers a competitive benefits package. For details, click here.
- Appointment Date: August 2025
Role and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Professor of Botany will be responsible for teaching courses such as Plant Kingdom, Evolution and Plant Systematics. Additionally, they may have the opportunity to develop and teach courses in their area of specialization and contribute to the general education and Honors programs. Responsibilities extend to research activities with undergraduates, academic advising and service contributions to the department.
SUNY Oswego is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values cultural safety, respect, civil discourse and cultural humility, all of which align with SUNY Oswego’s Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan. The Assistant Professor of Botany will be expected to support these values actively, demonstrating communication and interpersonal skills that facilitate engagement with a diverse student and colleague community. Applicants are requested to submit a separate diversity statement as part of the application process, as detailed in the application instructions.
Job Qualifications:
- Required Qualifications:
- A PhD in botany by the time of appointment, with plans to actively utilize and enhance departmental botanical resources, such as the greenhouse, herbarium and Rice Creek Field Station.
- Experience in techniques adaptable to undergraduate teaching and research.
- Dedication to high standards in teaching, scholarship and service, with a commitment to delivering enriching learning experiences through inclusive pedagogical practices.
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Expertise in areas such as plant systematics, evolution, phylogeography or paleobotany.
- Post-doctoral research experience.
- Previous teaching experience and skills in securing grants.
At SUNY Oswego, diversity is viewed as a key asset within our community. Our mission is to foster an environment that respects and promotes diversity, civil discourse and active engagement in developing an inclusive and dynamic community of scholars. SUNY Oswego encourages the contributions of each community member toward creating a transformative academic environment.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement Requirement:
Candidates are invited to submit a separate statement on how their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is reflected in their career achievements, community service and professional development. Application instructions provide further details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is research with undergraduates a requirement for this position?
Yes, the Assistant Professor will be expected to conduct research with undergraduate students, providing them with hands-on research experience, a core part of the department’s undergraduate focus.
What kind of support is available for faculty research within the department?
Faculty have access to specialized research resources, including shared facilities and funding opportunities. Additionally, as a member of the Great Lakes Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, the department has access to federal research funding and partnership opportunities.
What qualifications are required to apply for this position?
Candidates must have a PhD in botany by the time of appointment and experience with teaching and research methods that are adaptable to an undergraduate setting. A commitment to diversity and inclusive teaching is also required.
Are there opportunities for faculty professional development in diversity, equity and inclusion?
Yes, SUNY Oswego supports faculty in developing their skills in diversity and inclusion through ongoing training, resources and engagement with its Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan.
What type of diversity statement is required with the application?
Candidates should submit a statement detailing their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. This should include examples from their career experience, professional activities, community service and/or professional development.
How does SUNY Oswego support work-life balance and faculty benefits?
SUNY Oswego offers a comprehensive New York State benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans and support for work-life balance. The university provides resources to help faculty balance their academic responsibilities with personal life.
What does SUNY Oswego’s commitment to the Bee Campus USA initiative entail?
The Bee Campus USA initiative involves converting campus gardens to promote native plant and pollinator diversity, aligning with sustainability goals and environmental stewardship. Faculty and students participate in these initiatives as part of the department’s outreach activities.
When will applications for the Assistant Professor position be reviewed?
The review of applications is already underway and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply promptly to ensure consideration.
