Assistant Professor of Forensic Science, Tenure Track

Investigation, as well as a Master’s of Science in Forensic Science with emphases in Forensic Biology and Forensic Chemistry.

We seek an enthusiastic and collaborative forensic scientist with expertise in Forensic Biology to teach, mentor, and inspire undergraduate and graduate students while maintaining a strong, externally funded research agenda that advances the forensic sciences. This tenure-track position offers the opportunity to contribute to a program recognized for academic excellence, scientific rigor, ethical and professional conduct, and student success. The successful candidate will engage students in innovative research, foster scholarly growth at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and help strengthen the program's national reputation. Join a team dedicated to producing the next generation of forensic scientists and advancing the profession through education, research, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to scientific integrity. 

Purpose of Position 

The Forensic Science Program in the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of North Dakota invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor of Forensic Science. 

We seek candidates with an active, forensic science-focused research agenda, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at professional conferences (e.g., AAFS), and the pursuit of external funding through submissions to state, federal, and other funding agencies. 

The successful candidate will be expected to have a 2/2 teaching load in the B.S. and M.S. Forensic Science programs, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and submit at least one federal grant proposal within the first two years of employment. By Year 3, the teaching load will increase to a 2/3 depending on the level of external grant support. The successful hire will be expected to establish and sustain an externally funded research program focused primarily on forensic biology, contributing to the continued growth and national prominence of the Forensic Science Program.  

Duties & Responsibilities 

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the B.S. and M.S. Forensic Science programs (typically a 2/2 or 2/3 teaching load) and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. 
• Develop and maintain an active research program in forensic biology, including the publication of scholarly work and involvement of students in research activities. 
• Pursue external funding to support research initiatives, including submission of at least one federal grant proposal within the first two years of employment. 
• Maintain active engagement with the forensic science profession through scholarly presentations, professional service, and participation in organizations such as AAFS and ASCLD; promote the highest standards of scientific integrity, ethical practice, and professional conduct; and contribute to program, college, and university service. 

Required Competencies 

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to teach, inspire, and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. 
• Demonstrated commitment to scientific integrity, ethical practice, professionalism, and responsible conduct in research, teaching, service, and student mentorship. 
• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff. 
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and research management skills, including the ability to meet deadlines, and provide timely, professional, and constructive communication and feedback to students, colleagues, and program stakeholders. 
• Proficiency with computer technologies and software applications relevant to teaching, research, and professional activities. 

Minimum Requirements 

• Ph.D. in Forensic Science or a closely related field with a focus on Forensic Biology, completed by August 15, 2027. 
• Successful completion of criminal history background check. 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  

Preferred Qualifications 

• Demonstrated expertise and experience in forensic biology, including research, applied forensic science practice, and/or experience in a forensic science laboratory. 
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness at the undergraduate and/or graduate level. 
• Record of peer-reviewed publications demonstrating scholarly contributions to forensic biology / forensic science.  
• Evidence of an active research agenda with the potential to establish and sustain an externally funded research program, demonstrated through successful acquisition of external funding and/or strong potential to secure funding in support of scholarly research activities. 
• Evidence of scholarly dissemination through presentations at regional, national, or international scientific conferences (e.g., American Academy of Forensic Sciences Annual Scientific Conference). 
• Active membership and engagement in professional organizations relevant to forensic science (e.g., AAFS, ASCLD, or related professional societies). 
• Research interests that align with UND's Rural Health & Communities Grand Challenge (https://und.edu/research/grand-challenges/). 

To Apply 

For full consideration, applications must be received by November 2, 2026, and include the following materials: 

• Cover letter. 
• Curriculum Vitae, including academic credentials, professional experience, peer-reviewed publications, scholarly presentations, extramural funding, and professional activities and memberships (e.g., American Academy of Forensic Sciences). 
• Research statement describing current research activities, future research plans, and potential opportunities for student involvement. 
• Teaching philosophy statement. 
• Contact information for three professional references. 
• Unofficial transcripts. Please note that the selected candidate will be required to submit official transcripts upon hire. 

Position is open until filled. 

Questions can be directed to the Forensic Science Program Director, Lavinia Iancu at lavinia.iancu@und.edu.