Assistant Professor - Forensic Science

Position Description

The Department of Environmental Toxicology in the College of Arts & Sciences at Texas Tech University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track, Assistant Professor in Forensic Science to begin Fall 2027.

All prospective employees are encouraged to visit Work at Texas Tech to learn more about becoming a part of our campus community.

About the University

Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University began with a mission to serve the needs of West Texas, but its impact has always reached far beyond. Today, Texas Tech, located in Lubbock (pop. 300,000+), is home to a vibrant community of more than 42,000 students.Texas Tech's 1,800-acre campus showcases Spanish Renaissance architecture and is home to one of the country's largest public art collections. Its 13 colleges include a prestigious School of Law and a distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields. Built on the values of West Texas — hard work, grit and authenticity — the university graduates students who are deeply engaged in service to their communities and well-positioned to succeed in the world. Texas Tech is committed to achieving research and scholarly accomplishments that compare favorably to the member institutions of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For more than 100 years, Texas Tech has been a premier destination for those seeking a world-class education and a unique, personalized experience as a member of the Red Raider family.

About the College

Founded in 1925 as one of the university's four original colleges, the College of Arts & Sciences is comprised of 15 departments, offering a wide variety of courses and programs in the humanities, social and behavioral sciences, mathematics, physical sciences, and natural sciences. The College has more than 10,000 students enrolled representing more than a quarter of the overall Texas Tech University student population while maintaining a 22:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

About the Department/School/Area

The Department of Environmental Toxicology at Texas Tech (http://www.depts.ttu.edu/entx/) offers a Master of Science degree in the following tracks: Forensic Laboratory Sciences, Forensic Field Sciences, Forensic Professional, and Environmental Toxicology, as well as a doctoral degree in Environmental Toxicology. This department currently has 19 full-time tenured, tenure-track and professor of practice faculty and approximately 60 graduate students. In recent years, faculty from this department have been awarded over 5 million dollars in externally sponsored research, of which more than 70% were from federal sources. The department occupies several buildings to support research and teaching, affording significant laboratory and classroom space. Departmental research programs include campus, community, and national/international collaborations.

Major/Essential Functions

In line with TTU’s strategic priorities to engage and empower a dynamic student body, enable innovative research and creative activities, and transform lives and communities through outreach and engaged scholarship, applicants should have experience working with a breadth of student populations at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels within individual or across the areas of teaching, research/creative activity, and service.

As a faculty member in the Department of Environmental Toxicology, you will be expected to:

1. Contribute to the teaching mission of the department
2. Mentor graduate students
3. Develop a record of peer-reviewed/funded research
4. Provide service to the department, college, and university

Organization

Texas Tech University

Faculty Qualifications

1. Ph.D. in a natural science discipline
   
   • Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in a natural science discipline (e.g., chemistry, biology, or related field), with the degree conferred by September 1, 2027.
2. University-Level Teaching Experience
   
   • A minimum of one (1) semester of teaching experience at the university level is required. Teaching experience acquired during graduate studies is acceptable.
3. Scholarly Publications
   
   • A demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications, including at least one peer-reviewed publication in the field of forensic science.
4. Professional Involvement in Forensic Science
   
   • Active membership or affiliation with professional forensic science organizations (e.g., AAFS, ASCLD, IAI) is expected.
5. Area of expertise
   
   • Demonstrated, career-focused expertise in forensic science, evidenced by a sustained record of research, and/or practical experience in forensic casework or investigation.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, individuals with the following preferred qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply:

1. Research activity in forensic toxicology, controlled substances/drug analysis, or trace evidence analysis
2. Prior practical experience in forensic science, such as casework, employment, or service on professional committees/boards related to forensic science practice
3. Teaching experience exceeding the minimum requirement, particularly instruction or development of forensic science courses
4. Demonstrated mentoring or supervisory experience in academic (i.e., undergraduate or graduate student research) or professional settings

Duty Point

TTU Lubbock, main campus and affiliated facilities

Safety Information

Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.

Does this position work in a research laboratory?

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please include the following documents in your application:

1. Cover Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Research statement
4. Teaching statement
5. One (1) representative example of a peer-reviewed publication relevant to forensic science
6. Proof of active membership or affiliation with a professional forensic science organization
7. List of references

Questions about this position should be directed to Dr. Paola Tiedemann, Search Committee Chair at paola.tiedemann@ttu.edu . If you need assistance with the application process, contact Human Resources, Talent Acquisition at hrs.recruiting@ttu.edu or 806-742-3851.

Job Type

Full Time

Pay Basis

Monthly

Pay Statement

Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan.

Travel Required

Up to 25%

Grant Funded?

No

Job Group

Assistant Professor

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.

Salary Grade

800

Applications must be received by

01/11/2027