... Assistant Professor position starting in August 2027 ... We are searching for a broadly trained vertebrate ecologist. Experience in the areas of form and ...
... Assistant Professor position starting in August 2027 ... We are searching for a broadly trained vertebrate ecologist. Experience in the areas of form and ...
Assistant Professor Ecology information
What does an assistant professor of ecology do?
An Assistant Professor of Ecology is an early-career academic who teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, conducts research in ecological science, and publishes scholarly work. They also mentor students, apply for research funding, and participate in departmental and university service. Their research might focus on topics such as ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, or environmental change. Teaching responsibilities often include lectures, labs, and fieldwork. Assistant Professors may also collaborate with other scientists and organizations to address ecological issues.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of ecology, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Ecology, you need a doctoral degree in ecology or a related field, strong research experience, and a track record of scholarly publications. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, GIS tools, and laboratory or field instrumentation is typically required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and collaboration skills help foster student learning and facilitate interdisciplinary research. These competencies are crucial for advancing ecological knowledge, securing research funding, and effectively teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists.
What are some common challenges assistant professors in ecology face during their early years, and how can they navigate them?
Assistant Professors in Ecology often face the challenge of balancing research, teaching, and service commitments, especially when establishing their research programs and seeking funding. Navigating the tenure process can also be demanding, as it requires producing high-quality publications and demonstrating effective teaching and departmental involvement. Building collaborations—with colleagues in related fields or with external organizations—can help manage workload and open up new research opportunities. Seeking mentorship from senior faculty and participating in professional networks are important strategies for overcoming these early-career challenges.
What is the difference between Assistant Professor Ecology vs Research Scientist Ecology?
| Aspect | Assistant Professor Ecology | Research Scientist Ecology |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Doctorate in Ecology or related field, teaching experience often preferred | Doctorate in Ecology or related field, research experience prioritized |
| Work Environment | Academic institutions, teaching and research roles | Research institutions, laboratories, or environmental organizations |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Universities, colleges, academic research | Government agencies, NGOs, private research firms |
| Common Search & Comparison | Often compared based on research and teaching duties | Focuses more on research output and project management |
The main difference between Assistant Professor Ecology and Research Scientist Ecology lies in their primary roles. Assistant Professors typically combine teaching responsibilities with research at academic institutions, whereas Research Scientists focus mainly on conducting research within organizations or labs. Both roles require a doctorate in ecology or a related field, but their work environments and expectations differ significantly.
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Ecology jobs in Indiana?
For Assistant Professor Ecology jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Ecology jobs in Indiana look for?
The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Ecology jobs in Indiana are:
Assistant Professor, Biology
Indianapolis, IN • On-site
Butler University •
501 - 1,000 employees501 - 1,000 employees
6.8
Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
482nd of 625 rated colleges and universities
Respectful managers
Uninterrupted breaks
Full-time
Posted 9 days ago
Job description
The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position starting in August 2027. We are searching for a broadly trained vertebrate ecologist. Experience in the areas of form and function, and quantitative or computational methods would be viewed favorably. Teaching responsibilities will include major courses in organismal biology including those in the applicant's specialty (e.g., ornithology, ichthyology, mammalogy, functional morphology, comparative vertebrate anatomy, etc.), as well as introductory classes in ecology and evolution, biostatistics, an occasional senior Capstone, and Core Curriculum courses for non-majors. Questions about this position may be directed to Dr. Kyryll Savchenko (ksavchen@butler.edu).
For this position, the typical teaching load is 9 credit hours (two laboratory courses) per semester, which is approximately 12 contact hours per semester.
Applicants should have:
Candidates must have a PhD by the time of appointment in biology, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to evidence-based and engaged-learning pedagogies as well as a commitment to building an inclusive classroom environment for an increasingly diverse student body. We value candidates who share our commitment to engagement and inclusion of students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
Successful candidates will be expected to sustain a research program involving undergraduates. Butler has an established undergraduate research program supported by institutional funds, including internal research funds and equipment funds, the Butler Summer Institute to support summer student research, and the annual Undergraduate Research Conference. There are also funds available to support faculty and student travel to conferences. Start-up funds are available for this position.
To apply, applicants should submit the following:
- a cover letter discussing qualifications for and interest in the position. Please include your previous experience with and commitment to inclusive and evidence-based pedagogy.
- a CV
- a statement of teaching interests that highlights strategies for inclusive and evidence-based pedagogies
- a statement of research interests with plans for a program of research involving undergraduate students
- transcripts of graduate work or other evidence of terminal degree(s) (unofficial is acceptable for candidate review)
- a list of 3 professional references, including name, title, and contact information
The cover letter and CV can be uploaded individually. All other materials should be submitted as a single PDF. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation. Finalists will be required to submit official transcripts and to undergo a background check.
Evaluation of applications will begin immediately upon receipt, and preference will be given to those received by October 9, 2026.
Why the Butler University Department of Biological Sciences?
The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University (https://www.butler.edu/artssciences/biology/biology-major/) is a collaborative department made up of approximately 20 full, associate and assistant professors, lecturers and staff with a variety of interests and backgrounds. The department is housed in Butler's new Science Complex (see: https://stories.butler.edu/butler-university-celebrates-official-opening-of-100m-sciences-complex/). Resources include but are not limited to a state-of-the-art microscopy suite with a spinning disk confocal microscope and research grade fluorescent microscopes, quantitative PCR equipment, a brand-new vivarium, growth chambers, a greenhouse, a newly renovated herbarium, a 3-acre demonstration prairie, and proximity to other natural areas, computing resources, and fully mediated classrooms for teaching.
About Us
Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences and Founder's College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries.
Join us at the crossroads of tradition & transformation. A career at Butler University offers more than just a job-it's an opportunity to join a dedicated, innovative, and supportive community grounded in equity, academic excellence, and meaningful impact. Aligned with Boldly Butler, our strategic plan, faculty and staff play a vital role in delivering transformational learning experiences, enriching our campus and community, and ensuring a thriving Butler for generations to come.
Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected category.
About Butler University
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Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Indianapolis, IN, US
Year founded
1855
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