Tenure-track Assistant Professor

Submitted: 10/02/2024
Submitted By: Michael Renner
Department: Environmental Science
Institution: Drake University
Job type: Tenure-track
Apply by: 11/01/2024
Application Email:
Application URL: https://jobs.drake.edu/jobs/assistant-professor-of-zoo-and-conservation-science-998587

Job Summary:
The Environmental Science and Sustainability Department at Drake University seeks applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Zoo & Conservation Science. Candidates with backgrounds in animal behavior, behavioral husbandry and training, endangered species conservation, vertebrate zoology, primatology, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will have experience doing research and / or coordinating student intern projects in an AZA-accredited zoo environment, as well as possess a PhD or be ABD in a related field. The search committee is particularly interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.

Candidates will teach a 3/3 course load, including courses in animal behavior, ethological methods, endangered species conservation, and zoology courses in their field of expertise. Successful candidates will have experience conducting collaborative research and supervising student internships with a variety of captive species, particularly endangered species. Candidates who can engage undergraduate students in meaningful roles in ongoing research are especially welcome.

Minimum Qualifications:
A PhD or ABD status in a closely related field is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Candidates must have expertise in the study of animal behavior at a level that will allow them to teach both introductory-level and advanced-level courses.
Candidates must have a professional background that allows them to do research with animals in captive environments.
Preference will be given to applicants that have prior experience working with primates or carnivores in captive environments.
Candidates must bring a diverse perspective to our department.

Department Summary:
Zoo and Conservation Science is one of the fastest-growing majors at Drake. It is housed in the Environmental Science and Sustainability Department, a dynamic department focused on hands-on learning and engagement. We have close partnerships with both Blank Park Zoo and the Ape Initiative, both of which provide internships for our students, as well as research sites, access, and collaborative grant opportunities to our faculty.

Des Moines is the capital of, and largest city in, Iowa, and regularly places high in national rankings of livability and affordability.

Special Instructions to Applicants:
Qualified candidates should apply online and submit a cover letter that includes a concise statement of teaching philosophy, a concise diversity statement, a curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three professional references electronically. Only complete, electronic submissions will be considered.

Please do not send further materials (recordings, teaching evaluations, publications) at this time. Supplemental documents may be asked requested or required of semi-finalists and finalists. Please direct inquiries to Keith Summerville at keith.summerville@drake.edu.

Review of Applications Begins:
Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2024. Applications will be considered until a viable finalist has been identified. Final offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background and reference checks.

Have Questions:
Questions about this position can also be directed to the search chair: Keith Summerville, Chair, ENSS. keith.summerville@drake.edu