Job Description
The Department of Biochemistry at Virginia Tech invites applications from outstanding scientists for an academic-year, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the broad area of Computational and Systems Biochemistry. We seek innovative researchers who develop and/or apply cutting-edge computational, quantitative, and data-driven approaches to address fundamental questions in biochemistry. Areas of particular interest include, but are not limited to, bioinformatics, computational genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, systems biochemistry, multi-omics integration, and the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to understanding biochemical processes. Candidates whose research integrates large-scale biological datasets with molecular mechanisms, metabolic pathways, regulatory networks, and biochemical function are particularly encouraged to apply.
The successful candidate will establish an independent, internationally recognized, and extramurally funded research program that advances fundamental understanding of biochemical systems. We welcome applicants developing novel computational methodologies as well as those applying advanced computational tools to address important biological questions, particularly in collaboration with experimental researchers. The Department is highly collaborative, with existing research strengths in infectious disease, microbial physiology and biochemistry, molecular genetics, computational modeling and simulation, and drug discovery.
The Department of Biochemistry is housed within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Virginia Tech, a land-grant institution with a broad and interdisciplinary research portfolio. This position offers opportunities to connect computational and systems-level approaches with research in plant and animal health, agricultural biotechnology, microbial systems, food science, and environmental sustainability. Virginia Tech provides excellent research infrastructure, including core facilities for mass spectrometry, genomics (short- and long-read sequencing), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, imaging and microscopy, and advanced research computing resources.
The successful candidate is expected to develop a competitive, externally funded research program, publish scholarly work, and mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers. The candidate will also contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching in biochemistry and related computational disciplines, including opportunities to develop courses within their area of expertise. We seek a collaborative colleague committed to excellence in research, teaching, mentoring, and departmental service, and to supporting a welcoming and inclusive academic environment. The position is 70% Research and 30% Teaching. This position requires occasional travel to attend conferences.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field by appointment start date; At least two years of relevant postdoctoral research experience by the appointment start date; Evidence of research productivity and potential to establish an independent, externally funded research program; Ability to teach and mentor undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated potential for interdisciplinary collaboration across biochemistry, molecular biology, agricultural sciences, and related fields; Record of submitting competitive research grant applications; Experience teaching, mentoring, and/or advising undergraduate and graduate students.
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
95,000 - 110,000
Hours per week
40
Review Date
01/06/2027
Additional Information
Applicants must apply online (https://listings.jobs.vt.edu, Posting #538467), providing the following in PDF format: (i) cover letter, (ii) curriculum vitae, (iii) statement of research interests (~3 pages), and (iv) statement of teaching experience and interests (~2 pages). Applicants should also include contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin on January 6, 2027, and will continue until the position is filled. For further information about the position and the Department of Biochemistry, please visit www.biochem.vt.edu. For any questions specifically related to the position, please contact Anne Brown, Search Committee Chair, at ambrown7@vt.edu.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Anne Brown at ambrown7@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
