Department: School of Criminal Justice
Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus
Hire Type: Full Time
Pay: $75,000 - $80,000
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, may vary depending on class schedule; work is performed on-site and in person.
Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.
Job Story
The School of Criminal Justice (SCJ) at Wichita State University seeks applicants for a non-tenure-track faculty position in Forensic Sciences to begin on August 2, 2027. The successful candidate will also serve as the coordinator for the BS degree in Forensic Science. We seek a dedicated educator with knowledge of the scientific principles of forensic science and with experience in the analytical and investigative techniques of forensic science. The salary range for this 9-month position is $75,000 - $80,000.
In addition to the BS in Forensic Science, the SCJ offers bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security and master's degrees in Criminal Justice, Forensic Biology, and Forensic Firearms. The SCJ, one of the oldest criminal justice programs in the United States, is housed in the Law Enforcement Training Center on WSU’s Innovation Campus – a partnership building shared with the Wichita Police Department and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. The SCJ has close partnerships with the Midwest Criminal Justice Institute and with the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), which has two buildings on the Innovation Campus housing the Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Excellence, the NIBIN National Correlation and Training Center II, and the ATF Wichita Field Office.
The Undergraduate Forensic Science program is oriented to building applicable knowledge and skills for laboratory functioning. The curriculum has a strong basis in the natural sciences, with two tracks emphasizing chemistry or biology. The successful candidate for this position will teach classes in Forensic Science and Forensic Biology, advise students in the Forensic Science BS degree program, manage the curriculum and facilities of the Forensic Science BS degree program, and serve as liaison between the Forensic Science BS program and local forensic science employers.
Job Summary
Teach courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels using various instructional deliveries (e.g., traditional (face-to-face), hybrid, and fully online). To foster applied learning into the course design and engage with industry and local business community applied projects. To advance knowledge through scholarly activities (e.g., active involvement in committees, student mentorship, recruitment and retention initiative, outreach activities, etc.)
Essential Functions
Meet expectations for teaching and service, as set forth by the department and college.
Job Duties
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses, normally 7 courses per academic year, in forensic science and forensic biology.
- Mentor and advise students in forensic science.
- Manage the curriculum and facilities for the BS in Forensic Science.
- Participate in departmental, college, and university service activities.
- Engage with the community.
Required Education and Experience:
- Graduate level degree or Equivalent Experience in the Field
- Teaching experience
Faculty Requirements
- Master’s degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or a related field is required for appointment as Assistant Educator.
- A doctoral degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or a related field is required for appointment as Assistant Teaching Professor.
- Degree must be completed prior to August 2, 2027.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching in multiple modalities (e.g., online, hybrid, in-person).
- Ability to work effectively in collaborative environments and engage constructively with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Doctoral degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or a related field
- Two years' experience working in a forensic science lab
Additional Information:
Please complete the Faculty Profile including the names and contact information of three (3) references and upload the following documents:
- A cover letter
- Current CV which clearly outlines practical experience in forensic science
- A statement of teaching philosophy
For full consideration, completed applications should be submitted by November 2, 2026.
For additional information, please contact david.eichhorn@wichita.edu.
WSU is not able to provide immigration sponsorship for this position.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to remain in a stationary position – Frequent 60-90%; Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators – Frequent 60-90%
