Description
The Department of Biology at Tennessee Tech University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month,
tenure-track appointment at the Associate or Full Professor level starting in August 2026. This is one of
several positions in the general area of biomedical and molecular biotechnology to be filled in the next
couple of years. This senior position offers a unique opportunity to help shape and grow
biological/biomedical sciences and biotechnology in broader areas of health sciences, supporting
education of students for careers in medicine, pharmaceutical industries, and biotechnology. Area of
research specialty should complement those of current faculty in microbiology, genomics, population
genetics, evolutionary biology, and virology. Areas of particular interest include genetics and genomics,
cell and developmental biology, biotechnology, cancer biology, neurobiology, or molecular biology
related to biomedical and molecular biotechnology. Essential functions include developing an
extramurally funded research program, advising undergraduate and graduate students, and directing
thesis/dissertation research of M.S./Ph.D. students. The preferred candidate should have a track record
of extramural funding, demonstrated ability to teach advanced courses related to human health or
biotechnology, have a strong record of research accomplishment, exhibit a commitment to excellence in
both undergraduate and graduate education, and have prior administrative or leadership experience.
Tennessee Technological University (TN Tech), located in Cookeville, Tennessee, is a comprehensive
public university serving approximately 11,000 students. Ranked as one of ‘America’s Top Colleges’ by
Forbes, Tennessee Tech is currently classified as a Carnegie R2 research university, but its research
enterprise is rapidly progressing. The university offers a strong balance of high-quality STEM programs,
professional studies, and the arts. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16.5:1, Tennessee Tech provides a
close-knit academic community while supporting nationally recognized research and outreach
initiatives. The University is committed to advancing knowledge, inspiring innovation, and serving the
people of Tennessee, the nation, and the world through teaching, research, and service.
The College of Arts & Sciences offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs that foster
critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and creative expression. Faculty in the College are dedicated teachers and scholars. who engage students in experiential learning and research opportunities across the sciences,
humanities, and social sciences. The College supports interdisciplinary collaboration, global perspectives,
and the preparation of students for diverse professional and academic pathways.
The Department of Biology at Tennessee Tech is one of the largest departments on campus, offering B.S.
and graduate-level programs that emphasize both breadth and depth in the life sciences. The
department has 20 full-time faculty members with expertise spanning molecular biology, physiology,
ecology, evolution, systematics, wildlife biology, conservation biology, and plant sciences. Biology faculty
are committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, mentoring, and externally
funded research. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, field research
opportunities, and partnerships with national, state, and regional agencies and institutions. The
department recently expanded its Health Sciences Concentration, preparing students for careers and
advanced study in biomedical fields, biotechnology, and human health.
Cookeville, Tennessee’s Upper Cumberland hub, is an affordable college town with strong health care,
education, and outdoor recreation. Situated along I-40 between Nashville and Knoxville, it offers easy
access to Nashville’s healthcare/biotech ecosystem, including Vanderbilt University and Medical Center,
supporting potential collaborations and use of shared core facilities (e.g., genomics, single-cell, flow
cytometry, imaging). To the east, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Knoxville-Oak Ridge Innovation
Corridor provide world-class capabilities in biosciences, neutron scattering, and high-performance
computing. As an Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) member, Tennessee Tech faculty and
students can engage with ORNL programs and user facilities. Nearby lakes, waterfalls, and state natural
areas round out a high quality of life for scholars and their families.
Requirements
Required qualifications include a Ph.D. from an accredited institution in an area applicable to biomedical
and molecular biotechnology. To ensure full consideration, all application materials should be received
by December 23, 2025; position open until filled. All applicants must apply online at
http://www.tntech.edu/jobs and will be required to electronically upload (1) cover letter addressing the
qualifications and essential functions; (2) statement of teaching philosophy; (3) statement of research
interests; (4) curriculum vitae; (5) three recent publications; (6) copies of all college/university
transcripts (official transcripts for all degrees conferred required upon hire); and (7) names and contact
information (including email address) of three professional references who may be asked to provide
letters of recommendation. If selected for an interview, references will be contacted via email to provide
a reference letter. Required application materials numbered 1-3 should each be limited to a maximum
of two pages. Submission of materials is the applicant's responsibility. Applications without all the
required materials are incomplete and will not be considered.
Send inquiries about the position to: Dr. Carla Hurt, Health Science Search Committee, Box 5063, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN 38505
