Assistant Professor

Job Summary

The Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) Department within the College of Arts & Sciences at University of Colorado Boulder invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the level of Assistant Professor in the general area of computational biology. Our goal is to recruit junior faculty who utilize computational approaches, that includes the use of Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, data science, and bio inspired AI research to study molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. This includes biological research focused on the analysis of large datasets and complex images and video, protein and drug design, cellular processes and structure prediction to prioritize hits from genetics or chemical screens. We encourage cutting-edge and collaborative research that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. We recognize that excellence is achieved only by fostering a community that provides opportunities for all students, staff, and faculty.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder is the intellectual core of the university, conducting research, scholarship, creative work and education in more than 60 fields. Our research generates new knowledge, solving some of the world’s most critical problems. The college leads nationally in undergraduate and graduate education, bringing world-class research and scholarship to our students, both in and out of the classroom. The college is the academic home to all five of the university’s Nobel laureates. Additionally, it is home to the university’s four National Medal of Science winners, eight MacArthur “Genius Award” winners, 100 Fulbright Scholars, 17 Guggenheim Fellows, 15 Packard Fellows, 25 members of the National Academy of Sciences, and 23 members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. CU Boulder is the only university in the Rocky Mountain region in the American Association of Universities, a group of the nation’s leading research institutions.

The Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department includes 26 tenured and tenure-eligible faculty, 1 research faculty, and 6 teaching professors. MCDB offers a bachelor’s degree to ~800 undergraduates and has ~67 PhD students. Our vision is to be recognized as a leader in innovative educational and research programs focused on advancing our understanding of human health and function across the lifespan.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• The appointed individuals will participate in the research and teaching missions of the College of Arts & Sciences and contribute service to the Department, University, and profession. This will include developing an externally funded, innovative, and impactful research program.
• The normal classroom teaching assignments will be in accordance with Department policy. The specific courses and course load will be determined in consultation with the Department Chair. The successful candidates will also be expected to supervise independent student research at both graduate and undergraduate levels.

What You Should Know

• The anticipated start is Fall 2027.
• We are especially eager to consider applicants who will support and elevate the CU Boulder and MCDB community and foster an environment of collaborative excellence where all faculty can thrive. The candidate will be offered structured mentorship and sponsorship that will empower their scientific and professional development.

What We Can Offer

• Compensation: $115,000-$125,000 (9-month salary)
• Candidates may expect starting salaries within the posted range depending upon accomplishments–including publication record and external funding–and years of experience in comparable faculty positions—and discipline; negotiable start-up package; eligible for moving allocation.
• Research funding, start-up funds, and a moving allowance may be available for the successful candidate within department guidelines.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. In fact, CU Boulder has been named one of Forbes' America's Best Large Employers, ranking #4 among large employers in Colorado and #28 among universities nationwide. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Applicants are required to hold a doctoral degree (PhD, MD/PhD, or DPhil) in a life science discipline which includes, but is not limited to, neuroscience, biology, genetics, computational biology, or equivalent. Degree must be granted by October 31, 2026.

What You Will Need

• Successful candidates will have an outstanding record of, evidence of, or potential for extramural funding, and a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate education.

What We Would Like You to Have

• Accomplishments during graduate and post-graduate training should have established the candidate as a creative and promising investigator. If the individual does not have formal teaching experience, they should have demonstrated a commitment to develop the skills for first rate teaching. The appointed individuals are expected to establish an independent, externally funded research program and contribute to departmental teaching and mentoring of the next generation of scientists to earn tenure. Most competitive applicants will have at least 2 years of post-doctoral experience.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials. Upload attachments as a pdf with your last name as the first text in the filename. Ex. Smith_research_statement.pdf

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. Statement of Teaching Philosophy
4. Statement Describing Research Related Goals
5. Mentorship in Science Statement: statement on events or experiences that inform on your mentorship and approach to science (300-500 words)
6. Three Sample Research Papers - Please upload 3 of your most relevant peer reviewed publications. Late- stage pre-prints may also be acceptable.

During the application process you will need to enter contact information for three references. We will request letters of recommendation and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

Please apply by November 21, 2026 for full consideration. The position will remain posted until December 15, 2026.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Dr. Robin Dowell

Posting Contact Email: robin.dowell@colorado.edu