The Department of Biology at Boston University’s College of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in urban ecology, behavior, and evolution. Candidates whose work addresses pressing biological challenges at the intersection of ecology, evolution, and society are encouraged to apply. Areas of particular interest include, but are not limited to: nature-based solutions to climate change and biodiversity loss; AI- and machine learning-integrated biological research; environmental genomics and multi-omics; conservation biology in human-modified landscapes; bioinspired design, and green infrastructure science. We welcome creative thinkers whose work pushes the boundaries of traditional biology research. This position is part of BU’s major investment in convergent research, bringing together bold ideas, deep expertise, and perspectives from across disciplines to take on society’s most critical challenges.
The position is part of a University-wide cluster hire in Livable and Resilient Cities, which builds on BU’s strength in Urban Development & Resilience. Spanning anthropology, biology, civic data science, environmental health, journalism, learning sciences, political science, sociology, and urban affairs, the cluster draws together BU’s strengths in urban scholarship to advance new approaches to creating healthier, more equitable, and adaptable cities.
The Department of Biology at Boston University is a collaborative and interdisciplinary research community with strengths spanning ecology, evolution, environmental biology, quantitative biology, and the life sciences. The department provides an exceptional environment for scholars interested in the biological dimensions of urban development and resilience, including the ways that urbanization shapes ecosystem function, biodiversity, environmental health, and the interactions between people and nature. Faculty research addresses fundamental and applied questions related to urban biodiversity, urban nature, climate mitigation and adaptation, biogeochemistry, and the sustainability of human-dominated landscapes.
Since its founding in 1839, Boston University has embraced a mission of openness and access, becoming one of the first universities in the nation to welcome all students of ability regardless of race, gender, or creed. That tradition shapes our enduring commitment to academic freedom, free inquiry, and the robust exchange of ideas. Please visit https://www.bu.edu/values/ to learn more about our shared values.
We seek scholars who will contribute to our community of teachers and researchers through excellence in innovative scholarship, engaged teaching, and participation in the intellectual life of the University. Boston University provides an environment where faculty and students work together across disciplines, perspectives, and experiences to advance knowledge and address society’s most pressing challenges.
Position Qualifications
Candidates should have a PhD or equivalent degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field, demonstrated ability to obtain external funding to support their program of research and scholarship, and a commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching, education, and mentorship of students. Successful candidates will be expected to lead an independent research program; actively engage in collaborative research; teach and mentor students; and provide rank-appropriate service to the department, university, and profession.
The salary allocated for this role is $115,000 to $130,000. Final salary determination and rank placement will be based on the candidate's academic record, research background, years of qualifying experience, and a variety of other factors, including but not limited to licenses, specialty, departmental budgets, training and internal pay comparison. The stated hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Application Requirements
Applicants should provide a personal statement that describes their interest in both the convergent area of Livable and Resilient Cities and the department; a curriculum vitae; a research statement describing their research interests and experience; a teaching and mentoring statement detailing their approach to teaching and mentoring in an inclusive and diverse learning environment; and the names and contact information of 3 references.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of November 15. Applications will close November 30.
Boston University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, age, national origin, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Retaliation is also prohibited. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Under Massachusetts law, we may not require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment.
To move forward, final candidates must complete and sign an “Authorization to Release Information” form after receiving an offer to enable this background check.
Boston University, consistent with the AAU’s Principles on Preventing Sexual Harassment, conducts background checks for final candidates for certain faculty and staff positions.
As part of this process, we ask current and past employers of the last seven years whether there has been a substantiated finding of sexual misconduct under their policies.
