PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition, offering quality undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. We provide higher education in a vibrant Christian environment where minds are engaged and challenged, character is modeled and formed, and service is an expression of faith. PLNU is an institution that is committed to reflecting the rich diversity of God’s kingdom. We therefore  encourage applications from culturally and academically diverse faculty of the highest caliber, skilled and/or demonstrating great potential in the practice of teaching and scholarship. 

The Department of Biology is seeking candidates for a full-time, tenure track faculty position. Responsibilities will begin mid-August 2025. Academic rank will be based on degrees and experience, and the compensation level also depends upon the education and experience of the appointee. Review of applications will begin November 1st and continue until the position is filled.

Job Description:

Benefits:

We are pleased to offer attractive benefits and resources. This includes benefits such as  health, dental, tuition benefits for employees and dependents, and competitive retirement matching. There also may be opportunities for university assistance with the cost of housing in Southern California. In addition, we have many opportunities to engage with our community including faculty chapel, weekly faculty lunches and a robust wellness program.

Salary: 

PLNU pays its faculty using a payscale based on experience and academic rank.  Faculty salaries using this scale for a 2-semester appointment range from $69,630 to $113,916. The actual salary will be based on the experience, rank, and appointment term of the candidate selected to fill this position.

The Department is seeking a candidate capable of excellent teaching.  Preference will be given to applicants with expertise in cellular biology and/or microbiology.  Preference will also be given to applicants who will establish a research program with undergraduates.  The Department of Biology offers B.A. and  B.S. degrees in Biology,  B.S. degrees in Biology-Chemistry and Environmental Science, and an M.S. degree in Biology.  The department has thirteen full-time or part-time faculty members, a strong commitment to quality teaching, and a forty-year tradition of undergraduate research frequently funded by organizations such as the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the National Science Foundation.

Responsibilities:

• Primary teaching responsibilities will include teaching introductory level cell biology or microbiology, and opportunities to teach upper division courses in the candidate’s area of expertise.

• Establish a research program that incorporates undergraduate students.

• Successful candidates will work strategically with diverse colleagues, students, parents and community members.

• Advise students academically, spiritually, and socially.

• Participate in departmental activities and governance.

• Serve on university faculty committees/working groups and perform other normal faculty duties.

• Contribute in preparing students for their post graduate career. 

Qualifications:

• Education: Ph.D./Terminal degree 

• Experience: Post-doctoral experience preferred.  Undergraduate teaching experience would be helpful but is not required as long as the candidate has clearly demonstrated effective communication skills in group settings.  (Candidates are requested to submit teaching evaluations if they have such experience.)

• Philosophical: Thorough commitment to the concept of Christian liberal arts education and a desire to work in a Christian university. Supportive of the religious and educational goals of the university and its sponsoring denomination.

• Personal: Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement. In addition, faculty agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant. 

Selection Process: 

Applicants will be expected to submit an application and corresponding documents. All applicants will be reviewed and evaluated. From this pool of applicants, a limited number will be selected and moved forward in the process. The interview process may include:

• Phone/Zoom Interview 

• Dialogue with students and faculty

• Teaching a class to students and faculty

• Presenting a research seminar to faculty and students

• Interview with the Associate Dean of the School of STEM

• Interview with the Dean of the School of STEM

• Interview with the Provost

• Interview with the President of the University

Special Instructions:

When beginning your application, be prepared to answer these questions and upload the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae

• Cover Letter

• Statement of Personal Faith

• Philosophy of Teaching 

• Research statement that describes how your scholarship will also include undergraduate students

• Statement and description of your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity

• Provide names and contacts for 3 references, including at least one professional contact who can speak to your teaching ability and/or potential (References will only be contacted if you are advanced as a finalist candidate.)

• Unofficial Transcripts for highest degree completed.  Official transcripts will be required upon hire. 

Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Associate Dean of STEM (kriskoudelka@pointloma.edu).

About Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University is known for being forward-thinking. At PLNU, academics, faith, and community are all vital. Students benefit from this balanced approach to education and leave PLNU prepared to think, act, and contribute to the world. In addition to more than 60 undergraduate areas of study, PLNU offers graduate program regional centers throughout Southern California. PLNU serves more than 3,500 students.

Connections working at Point Loma Nazarene University