Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

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.