Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

Role details

Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Forensic Science.

Position Details

Location

Hattiesburg

118 College Drive Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001 United States

Division

School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security

Position Type

Faculty

Employment Status

Full Time

Grant Funded

No

Pay Grade

Posting Close Date

Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must complete an online application at https://jobs.usm.edu. Along with the application, applicants should include: (1) a cover letter detailing potential for high-quality research and teaching; (2) a curriculum vitae; (3) a statement of teaching philosophy and goals; (4) a list of three professional references along with contact information for each; and (5) unofficial transcripts from undergraduate and graduate institutions. Official transcripts will be required prior to a campus interview. To receive priority consideration, applications must be received by November 15, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). The anticipated start date for this position is August 2027.

Direct inquiries to: Dr. Kuppareddi Balamurugan, Search Committee Co-Chair School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security The University of Southern Mississippi 118 College Drive #5127, Hattiesburg, MS 39406 [email protected] 601-266-6048

Job Summary

The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security at The University of Southern Mississippi invites applications for a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Forensic Science. The candidate will be expected to engage in teaching, research, service, and professional activities; contribute to the growth and development of the school, college and university; participate in student recruitment and retention efforts; serve on school, college, and university committees; and advise and mentor students. This position is based on the Hattiesburg campus.

The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security (CJFSS) is an interdisciplinary school with more than 500 students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Criminal Justice. The school offers undergraduate minors in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, and Security Studies, as well as a fully online graduate program in Criminal Justice.

Housed in the newly renovated Paul H. "Bud" Holmes Criminal Justice Building, CJFSS features more than 30,000 square feet of state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories, modern classrooms, a computer laboratory, faculty and student lounges, and a beautifully designed, fully functional mock courtroom.

The Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology, and Forensic Chemistry degree programs prepare students to apply a wide range of forensic techniques in all forensic settings. Students gain knowledge and hands-on experience in drug identification and toxicological studies, serology and DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, crime scene documentation, firearms identification, arson and explosives investigation, forensic photography, courtroom testimony techniques, footwear analysis and other specialized areas of forensic science.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver undergraduate forensic science lectures and laboratories via both online and face-to-face instruction.
• Advise and mentor undergraduate students on their degree progress and career preparation.
• Prepare and submit syllabi, grades, and official course documentation in a timely manner.

Actively participate in curriculum and course development.

• Conduct scholarly, funded research and publish findings in peer-reviewed outlets.
• Supervise and collaborate with undergraduate students on research initiatives.
• Engage in continuous scholarship and professional development commensurate with school, college, and university expectations.
• Participate actively in the FEPAC (Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission) accreditation and re-accreditation process.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with local, regional, and national forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies.
• Attend school, college, and university meetings, committees, and recruitment events.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology or a closely related discipline from an accredited university. If Ph.D. is pending, degree must be completed within first year of appointment. Demonstrated potential for undergraduate and graduate teaching. Demonstrated potential to establish a research program and acquire external funding. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Specialized knowledge in the field of forensic science as demonstrated through graduate-level coursework, scholarly deliverables, and/or professional experience.
• Ability to teach effectively (both online and in traditional settings) at the university level in an undergraduate forensic science degree program.
• Ability to effectively engage in scholarship/professional development and service activities.
• Ability to effectively advise and mentor students.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum two years of work experience in forensic science or related field. Ability to teach two or more undergraduate courses related to forensic disciplines such as Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Quality Management, Digital Forensics, Death Investigation, Crime Scene Investigation and Reconstruction, and other forensic-related areas. Work experience involving chain-of-custody, proficiency testing, laboratory analysis of evidence, and courtroom testimony. Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting scientific instruments used in forensic laboratories.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports.

With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.