Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology

Position Summary

The Avila University College of Arts & Sciences, guided by its mission of excellence in teaching and learning and dedicated to service to the Dear Neighbor, is actively seeking a Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP) of Biology beginning Fall 2026. This is a full-time, non-tenure-track appointment through Spring 2027, with the possibility of continuation. The successful candidate will be able to teach general biology as well as upper-division courses in areas such as ecology, animal behavior, conservation biology, plant biology, and other related topics.

• Teach 12 credits per semester including general biology and a variety of courses focusing on animal behavior, a plant biology course, ecology, and conservation courses in the applicant’s area of expertise that will strengthen the existing programs in Biology and Professional Health Sciences.
• Develop course-based undergraduate research experiences within advanced biology courses.
• Create an environment in the classroom which facilitates effective student learning through the use of a wide range of teaching strategies and which motivates students to think, to question, and to critically analyze.
• Participate in developing, implementing, and assessing biology curriculum.
• Potential to maintain professional scholarship with the opportunity to mentor students as part of our honors capstone research experience.
• If desired, participate in service efforts in the School of Humanities and the College of Arts & Sciences.
• Champion diversity, build an inclusive culture and learning experience, and maintain an equitable learning environment.

• Ph.D. preferred in biology, or a closely related discipline, completed by the date of appointment is required. Doctoral candidates with All but Dissertation (ABD) status would also be given full consideration for the position if the completion date is in the near future.
• Postdoctoral experience is preferred.
• Teaching experience in baccalaureate education is preferred. Strong preference will be given to candidates that have demonstrated the ability to incorporate evidence-based practices in undergraduate biology courses.
• Full-time faculty will be academically and experientially qualified and maintain expertise in previously mentioned areas of responsibility.
• Ability to work effectively with others in a wide variety of settings.
• Demonstrated commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, inclusive, safe, and just environment for students.
• Multilingual skills are highly preferred.
• Ability to contribute to a climate that supports a diverse student body, serves first-generation college students, multilingual learners, and contributions to equity and social justice through their work.

Successful candidates should be committed to contributing to a climate that supports a diverse student body, serves first-generation college students, multilingual learners, and contributions to equity and social justice through their work.

This is a full-time position, eligible for the usual and customary benefits. Avila University’s comprehensive benefit package includes a generous holiday schedule, tuition remission for employee and dependents, vacation and sick leave, retirement benefits and health insurance.

Kansas City, a two-state metropolitan area with a population of nearly two million, offers a wide variety of cultural, educational and social life opportunities. Avila University, a Catholic university founded and inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, provides undergraduate and graduate education in the liberal arts and professional studies, preparing lifelong learners who make meaningful contributions to the global community.

Avila University is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of, sex, race, religion, age, color, sexual orientation, disability, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran's status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

You must be at least 18 years of age to be employed by Avila University.

All new employees will be required to complete an "Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)" and produce requested documentation after employment.

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Avila University requires the successful completion of a background check as a condition of employment.