Assistant Professor Chemistry

The Chemistry Department at Drake is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Certification of our program reflects that we provide a modern, rigorous, and comprehensive learning experiences that prepare students for their professional careers. Faculty members, along with laboratory instructors, contribute to the education of our undergraduates during and outside of class hours. We have a wide range of modern instrumentation, including NMR (500 MHz), GC-MS, LC-DAD, UV-vis, and fluorescence capabilities. Drake offers BS and BA degrees in chemistry as well as in biochemistry, and a concentration in biophysics.

The introductory classes are divided into several sections that enable faculty to interact closely with students. Small, upper-division courses allow for are one-on-one interactions with students and flexible approaches to teaching and learning. We also value faculty-student collaborations through research projects and independent studies on topics of interest.

Our mission is to inspire students to experience the joy of discovery in the sciences, to investigate the atomic world and its effects on our everyday lives, and to succeed in their chosen career paths.

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Job Summary:

The Department of Chemistry at Drake University is seeking applicants for a tenure-track assistant professor position in Chemistry beginning August, 2024. A Ph.D. or ABD in Chemical Education is required with preference given to candidates with additional experience in Biochemistry, Polymer Science, Physical Chemistry, or related field.

The successful candidate will be able to teach courses in general chemistry as well as introductory and advanced courses in biochemistry or physical chemistry. They will also be able to develop a research program that includes undergraduates and contribute to the design, implementation, and assessment of a summer bridge program for STEM students. A typical teaching load is three courses a semester, with class sizes ranging from 10 to 50 students (upper vs. lower division, respectively). Five specified office hours each week are required. Advising and service, both starting no earlier than the second year of appointment, are also expected in progress toward tenure.

The search committee is particularly interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.

This appointment starts in August 2024.

Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. or ABD in Chemical Education with planned completion by May 2024.

Preferred Qualifications:

Significant background in and ability to teach either Biochemistry, Polymer Science, or Physical Chemistry.

Salary & Benefits:

Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our digital benefits guide: Drake Benefits Guide (Plan Year 2023).

One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. You can learn about both the tuition waiver policy and tuition exchange programs here: Tuition Benefits.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Please complete the online application and attach: (1) a cover letter, (2) CV/Resume,  (3) a statement of teaching philosophy, (4) a two-page summary of research plans, (5) a 1-2 page diversity statement, and (6) the names of at least three references.

Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of finalists.

All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of work authorization.

Have Questions?

Questions about the position may be directed by email to Professor Mark Vitha, the search chair, at

Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa may be directed to Drake Human Resources at

Review of Applications Begins:

Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, apply by October 15.  The position will remain posted until filled.

For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate’s scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate’s satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.

Apply online at: