Assistant Professor - Molecular Biology/Forensic Biology, Department of Sciences

City University of New York; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 59,000 - 114,000; Full time

Job summary

John Jay College of Criminal Justice invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Molecular Biology, with expertise in forensic biology, to begin Fall 2027. The successful candidate will teach both undergraduate and graduate courses in molecular biology, genetics, forensic biology, and related areas, while developing an active research program.

We seek a collaborative scholar who demonstrates excellence in teaching, mentoring, and research, with potential for

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Forensic Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or closely related field is required.
• Professional experience in forensic science, DNA analysis or related laboratory practice is strongly preferred.
• Experience teaching or mentoring at undergraduate or graduate levels; ability to develop externally funded research programs.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in molecular biology, genetics, forensic biology and related areas.
• Mentor students in research and contribute to curriculum development in forensic biology.
• Develop an externally funded research program and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.

Skills

Teaching experience

Mentoring

Research planning

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Forensic Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related field

Job description

Assistant Professor - Molecular Biology/Forensic Biology, Department of Sciences

FACULTY VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

ABOUT THE COLLEGE

John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a senior college of the City University of New York (CUNY) and an internationally recognized leader in educating for justice. Led by President Karol V. Mason, John Jay is a federally designated Hispanic-serving institution, ranked third in the nation in Black student success, and a top-ten institution for promoting student social mobility. John Jay is proud to serve a diverse and dynamic student body of 15,000 students, including nearly 50% who are first in their family to attend college, as well as students who are immigrants, from low-income families, or from other historically underrepresented groups in higher education.

The College participates in the doctoral programs of the Graduate Center of CUNY and offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees both in traditional criminal justice-related fields of study as well as in a robust portfolio of liberal arts and sciences programs that highlight themes of justice across the arts, sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Department of Sciences at John Jay College of Criminal Justice invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Molecular Biology, with expertise relevant to forensic biology, to begin Fall 2027.

We seek an enthusiastic and collaborative scholar-educator who will contribute to our nationally recognized forensic science programs and help prepare the next generation of forensic scientists. The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in molecular biology, genetics, forensic biology, and related areas within the Forensic Science Program, while developing an active research agenda that complements the mission of the Department and the College.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, mentoring, and research. We are especially interested in candidates with the potential to engage students in meaningful research experiences and to develop externally funded projects in molecular biology, forensic biology, forensic genetics, or closely related areas. Candidates should have a record of scholarly productivity or demonstrate strong potential for publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Responsibilities include teaching courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, mentoring students in research, contributing to curriculum development in forensic biology, participating in departmental and college service, and developing a sustainable research program. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to working collaboratively with faculty, students, and external partners, be enthusiastic and well-prepared to work with students from a wide range of backgrounds, and demonstrate a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. As demonstrated in John Jay College’s Seven Principles for a Culturally Responsive, Inclusive, and Anti‑Racist Curriculum (https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/john-jays-seven-principles), the College seeks a faculty member who thrives in a multicultural, collaborative academic environment and is committed to both access and excellence in higher education.

John Jay College offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic academic environment dedicated to justice, science, and public service. The Department of Sciences is home to rigorous forensic science programs that combine strong scientific training with real‑world applications, preparing students for careers in forensic laboratories, research institutions, graduate and professional programs, and public service.

QUALIFICATIONS

A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Forensic Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a closely related field is required.

Professional experience in forensic science, forensic biology, DNA analysis, forensic genetics, or related laboratory practice is strongly preferred.

Experience teaching or mentoring undergraduate or graduate students, a strong publication record or evidence of scholarly potential, and the ability to develop an externally funded research program are strongly valued.

COMPENSATION

$59,256 - $114,091. Salary commensurate with education and credentials

CUNY offers faculty a competitive compensation and benefits package covering health insurance, pension and retirement benefits, paid parental leave, and savings programs. We also provide mentoring and support for research, scholarship, and publication as part of our commitment to ongoing faculty professional development.

CLOSING DATE

The review of resumes will begin on October 2, 2026

The posting closes on November 1, 2026

JOB SEARCH CATEGORY

CUNY Job Posting: Faculty

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

CUNY encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans and women to apply. At CUNY, Italian Americans are also included among our protected groups. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against on the basis of any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.

Job ID: 32641

Location: John Jay College

Job Type: Full-Time