Research Associate, Life Sciences Jobs in Ohio

The Biology Department at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time tenure track faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences in conservation ecology beginning fall of 2027.

About

Founded in 1833, Oberlin is a private four-year, highly selective national liberal arts college that is also home to an outstanding Conservatory of Music. Together, the two divisions enroll approximately 2900 students. The College views a diverse, equitable, and inclusive educational environment as contributing to the excellence of its academic program and was the first college in the US to admit Black Students and women. Among liberal arts colleges, Oberlin is a national leader in successfully placing graduates into PhD programs.

Oberlin is situated on the outskirts of Cleveland, combining a cozy small-town atmosphere with the cultural amenities of a major city. The Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cinematheque, Karamu House, several educational institutions, and scores of restaurants, bars, music venues, and theaters add to the cultural and educational opportunities of the region.

The Oberlin Department of Biology includes 10 full-time tenure-track faculty whose research and teaching specialties span the breadth of the biological sciences. The department graduates approximately 50 majors per year. Faculty in the department have their own individual research labs, receive competitive startup packages, and are expected to work closely with undergraduate students on original research projects.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will teach the standard teaching load (4.5 courses per year) in the general area of conservation ecology with a preference for vertebrate study systems. The incumbent may develop a course for the First-Year Seminar Program, will teach BIOL 103 (Environmental Biology, a course that counts toward the Environmental Studies major), BIOL 210/211 (Genetics, Evolution, and Ecology, a course that is required of all Biology and Environmental Science majors), and upper-level Biology courses, including at least one with a lab, in the general area of conservation biology and ecology. The incumbent will be a full member of the Biology Department, but will also be expected to serve on the Environmental Studies and Sciences Program Committee that oversees the new Environmental Science major.

The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and/or other creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research and service on committees. The Department and College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including a paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.

Qualifications

Among the qualifications required for appointment is the PhD degree (in hand or expected by first semester of academic year 2027-28). Candidates must demonstrate commitment to and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching. Oberlin is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the distinctiveness and excellence of our academic community through their research, teaching, and service. The incumbent will bring understanding of or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations.

Compensation

Within the range established for this position, salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a competitive benefits package.

Oberlin College is committed to creating and sustaining a vibrant, welcoming community where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, and where every member has an equal opportunity to learn, work, and contribute based on their talents, skills, and merit. We value a campus environment that draws on a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and ideas to enrich education, scholarship, and daily interactions. The College adheres strictly to all applicable federal and state civil rights laws, including Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, the Equal Protection Clause, and related regulations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic in employment, admissions, or educational programs. Hiring and advancement decisions are made based on qualifications, experience, and job-related criteria. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence, free inquiry, respectful dialogue, and equal opportunity under the law to apply. The Office for Institutional Equity plays a key role in supporting a fair, compliant, and inclusive workplace and learning environment for the entire Oberlin community.

Special Instructions to Applicants

All application materials must be submitted electronically through Oberlin College and Conservatory’s online application process at:

1) A cover letter describing your teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service, detailing how you contribute to an inclusive learning environment;

2) A Curriculum Vitae;

3) An unofficial graduate transcript;

4) Statement(s) on your teaching philosophy and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion;

5) A research statement that includes how you will support undergraduate research and how you might incorporate undergraduate students into your research program; and

6) Letters of Reference from three recommenders.*

By providing three letters of reference, you agree that we may contact your letter writers.

Review of applications will begin on September 1, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Completed applications received by the September 1 deadline will be guaranteed full consideration.

Questions about the position can be addressed to: aroles@oberlin.edu, Dr. Angie Roles, Chair of Biology or by phone at 440-775-8319.

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Unofficial Transcripts
- Research Statement
- Teaching Philosophy

Optional Documents

- Affirmation of Diversity Statement