Human Resources

The Lake Forest College Biology Department invites applications for a one-year Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP) faculty position in Biology. The position starts in August 2024. We are seeking a well-qualified biologist to teach in the area of Ecology, Behavior & Evolution. In the fall semester, the VAP will teach an upper-level course with lab in the candidate's area of specialty, and one lab section of our core course Biol 220: Evolution & Ecology. In the Spring semester, the VAP will offer an upper-level course without lab in the candidate's area of expertise, one lab section of our core course Biol 220: Evolution & Ecology, and a first-year seminar course that would appeal to students majoring in Biology. A full teaching load is three courses per semester and labs count as one course. A PhD is required. Demonstrated excellence in teaching beyond traditional TA experience is preferred. Successful candidates will demonstrate enthusiasm for liberal arts education.

We provide excellent mentoring of undergraduate teaching in a liberal arts college setting. Our department has federally-funded faculty and a modern science building including tissue culture labs, aquatic and terrestrial vivaria, and research-grade greenhouse. Members of the Biology Department actively engage in interdisciplinary programs in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Environmental Studies, Neuroscience, and a Health Professions Program.

A highly selective liberal arts college located on Chicago’s North Shore, Lake Forest College enrolls approximately 1,700 students from more than 40 states and from more than 80 countries. Lake Forest is one of the most diverse small colleges in the Midwest with nearly 40% of our student body comprised of domestic students of color and international students. The majority of our STEM pool is female and also includes a significant number of first generation and traditionally underrepresented students. Lake Forest College embraces diversity and encourages applications from women, members of historically underrepresented groups, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Lake Forest College has been recognized as a top college by U.S. News & World Report, including #1 in the nation for Social Mobility and #13 as a Best Value College. Princeton Review ranks the College #4 for best science lab facilities, among other top distinctions.

In a single PDF, please send the following: 1) a cover letter that describes your motivation for applying and how a liberal arts environment dedicated to diversity and inclusion aligns with your teaching philosophy, 2) a current CV, and 3) a statement of course interests and teaching philosophy, preferably that includes evidence of teaching effectiveness. Please provide names and contact information for two recommenders. All documents should be sent electronically to Professor Sean Menke, biosearch@lakeforest.edu. Application review will begin on February 29 and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.