Assistant Professor - Biology

Position Description

The Biology Department at Seattle University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position with expertise in neurobiology, beginning in August 2027. This appointment supports the launch of an interdisciplinary undergraduate Neuroscience major spanning multiple departments and colleges across the University.

 The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching both introductory and advanced courses within our undergraduate biology curriculum; developing new courses for the Neuroscience program; providing service to the program, department, college and university; and establishing an active, extramurally funded research program that engages undergraduates in neurobiology (e.g., cellular/molecular neuroscience, systems or circuit neuroscience, developmental neurobiology, behavioral neuroscience, computational neuroscience, or comparative approaches). 

Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related field; post-doctoral training; and undergraduate teaching experience.

For this position, we offer a competitive start-up package, a well-equipped research facility, faculty mentoring, and a collaborative campus community located in the vibrant city of Seattle. 

Applicants should submit applications online at www.seattleu.edu/careers including:

• Cover letter summarizing your qualifications and potential for contributions to Seattle University. In your cover letter, explain how you understand, embody, and would contribute to each of the following at Seattle University. Please dedicate one paragraph to each prompt:
  • Our 5-year Strategic Plan, Reigniting Our Strategic Directions;
  • Our Mission as a Jesuit and Catholic University;
  • Our commitment to DEI and Inclusive Academic Excellence;
  • Our focus on pedagogy, scholarship, service, and institution building;
  • Our faculty members’ role as Teacher-Scholars.
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Research statement (describing current and planned research program) 
• Teaching statement (including philosophy, proposed course(s), and experience with course/curriculum development) 
• Unofficial copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts 
• Names and contact information for three references 

Letters of reference may be solicited upon completion of application. Review of applications will begin November 1, 2026.  The position will remain open until filled and is contingent on availability of funding. Inquiries may be directed to Dr. Carolyn Stenbak ([email protected]). 

Founded in 1891, Seattle University is a Jesuit Catholic university located on a beautiful campus of more than 50 acres in the dynamic heart of Seattle. Our diverse and driven population is made up of more than 7,200 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within eight schools and colleges. Seattle University is an equal opportunity employer.

In support of its pursuit of academic and scholarly excellence, Seattle University is committed to creating a diverse community of students, faculty and staff that is dedicated to the fundamental principles of equal opportunity and treatment in education and employment regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, national origin, political ideology, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The university encourages applications from, and nominations of, individuals who will further enrich the diversity of our educational community.

Compensation at a Glance:

$75,000-$85,000

Seattle University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting.  The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information, and not based on a candidate’s gender or any other protected status.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck.  Seattle University provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your total compensation package.

Benefits at a Glance

Consistent with its fundamental Jesuit values, Seattle University offers a wide range of benefits designed to care for the whole person.  Choose from three different medical plans, a dental, and vision insurance programs.  Protect your income with life, short & long-term disability coverage.  Plan for your future with up to a 10% employer contribution for retirement benefits, comprised of a 5% non elective employer contribution and an additional dollar-for-dollar match of your voluntary contributions up to a maximum of 5%.  You may also take advantage of 100% paid tuition benefits for the employee and dependents, a subsidized transportation benefit, a wellness program with free access to an onsite fitness facility, and a wide variety of campus events.  Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, including a paid Holiday break closure in December, and paid sick leave.  For more information explore the Benefits website at: https://www.seattleu.edu/hr/benefits/