Assistant Professor – Chemistry & Physics (Forensic Chemistry), Southeast Missouri State University
Why This Forensic Chemistry Faculty Role Stands Out
The Assistant Professor – Chemistry & Physics – Forensic Chemistry position at Southeast Missouri State University is a focused, tenure-track opportunity for chemists who want to build careers at the interface of science and justice. The role combines undergraduate teaching, hands-on forensic training, and an active research program in a growing forensic chemistry major.
For Indian and other international PhD holders in chemistry or forensic science, this position offers a structured route into the US academic system. In this guide, you will find a clear overview of responsibilities, eligibility, application deadlines, and practical tips to decide whether this assistant professor forensic chemistry job at Southeast Missouri State University aligns with your long-term goals.
Why the Assistant Professor – Forensic Chemistry Role Matters
Forensic chemistry sits at a powerful intersection of analytical chemistry, toxicology, and criminal justice. At Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), the forensic chemistry program gives students access to a dedicated “mock crime lab,” modern analytical instrumentation, and a curriculum aligned with professional expectations in forensic science.
Because this assistant professor post is tenure track, the selected candidate can:
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Shape a specialised forensic chemistry curriculum.
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Mentor undergraduates in authentic research projects.
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Build collaborations with local crime laboratories and law-enforcement agencies.
For early-career academics, especially those with strong analytical or organic chemistry backgrounds who want to stay close to applied problems, this role provides a rare balance of teaching, research, and real-world impact.
Eligibility: Who Should Consider Applying?
Core Academic Requirements
According to the official job announcement, applicants must hold a PhD in forensic chemistry or a closely related chemistry discipline such as analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or organic chemistry. A candidate who will complete their PhD by the stated start date is also eligible. The degree must come from a regionally or internationally accredited or government-recognised university.
Additionally, the hiring committee expects:
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Demonstrated experience teaching chemistry at college or university level (as a graduate assistant, instructor, or beyond).
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Evidence of potential to build a successful, undergraduate-centred research program.
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Strong written and oral communication skills, and a record of effective teamwork in academic environments.
For Indian and Other International Applicants
International applicants, including those based in India, can be competitive if they:
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Hold a PhD in a relevant chemistry field from a recognised university.
Can document teaching experience (for example, M.Sc. or PhD-level teaching assistantships).
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Present a realistic research plan that involves undergraduate students and uses accessible instrumentation.
Because this is a US tenure-track role, shortlisted international candidates will also need to navigate work visa processes after selection. It is therefore important to prepare complete documentation and to be ready for questions about long-term relocation and academic integration.
Key Features of the Position
Teaching and Program Support
The assistant professor will primarily teach forensic chemistry and other chemistry courses at introductory and advanced levels. The exact teaching load will follow departmental norms, but you can expect a mix of lectures, labs, and possibly online or hybrid elements.
Beyond classroom teaching, the faculty member is expected to:
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Support forensic chemistry majors through academic advising.
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Guide students towards internships and early career placements.
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Help maintain and develop relationships with the local crime lab and other external partners.
This combination makes the position ideal for those who enjoy close student interaction and advising.
Research Expectations
A central expectation is that you establish a productive, multi-faceted research program that actively
involves undergraduates.
In practice, this could include:
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Applied analytical chemistry projects linked to forensic evidence analysis.
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Method development for trace detection, toxicology, or controlled substances.
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Collaborative work with forensic professionals on real-world case-related issues.
Since SEMO is a regional university with strong emphasis on hands-on learning, research proposals that are realistic, instrument-aware, and undergraduate-friendly will be particularly compelling.
Service and Collegial Engagement
Like most tenure-track roles, this post includes service responsibilities. You will contribute to:
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Departmental and university committees.
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Public outreach, student recruitment, and retention activities.
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Broader engagement with the college and local community.
Consistent, collegial participation in these activities is essential for successful tenure and promotion.
Compensation, Start Date, and Location
The compensation is listed as “depends on qualifications”, which is typical for US faculty postings at this level. The role is full-time and tenure-track, with a start date of 1 August 2026.
The position is based at Cape Girardeau, Missouri, a historic city on the Mississippi River that serves as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and industry. For candidates relocating from abroad, the location offers a lower cost of living compared to major coastal cities, which can be a practical advantage during early career stages.
justify;">Application Timeline and Deadline
The application deadline for full consideration is 21 January 2026. The advertisement also notes that the position will remain open until filled, which means late applications may still be reviewed, but early submission is strongly recommended.
Because international document collection (for example, official transcripts and notarised copies) often takes additional time, prospective applicants should start preparations well before this priority date.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
The official posting directs candidates to submit their materials through the Southeast Missouri State University online application portal hosted on SchoolJobs.com. A typical application package includes the following components:
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Letter of interest
Explain how your teaching, research, and service experience align with the forensic chemistry program and departmental needs.
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Curriculum vitae (CV)
Present your academic history, publications, conference talks, teaching experience, awards, and professional memberships.
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Teaching statement
Describe your teaching philosophy, experience with undergraduate instruction, and any innovations such as active learning or lab redesigns.
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Research plan
Outline a feasible, 3–5-year research agenda that involves undergraduates and makes intelligent use of available facilities.
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Transcripts
Upload unofficial transcripts for initial review, while noting that official copies will be required upon appointment.
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References
Provide names and contact details for three current professional referees who can comment on your teaching, research, and collegiality.
Before final submission, you should carefully review each uploaded file, check for formatting issues, and ensure that your contact information is accurate and up to date.
Tips, Common Mistakes, and Expert Advice
To strengthen your application for this assistant professor forensic chemistry role, consider the following practical suggestions:
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Connect teaching and research clearly. Show how your research projects create learning opportunities for forensic chemistry majors, not just publications for your CV.
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Highlight any forensic-specific experience. For instance, mention collaborations with forensic labs, casework experience, or coursework in forensic science.
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Avoid generic materials. Search committees can quickly see when letters and statements are not tailored to the institution or program.
For Indian and other international candidates:
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Explicitly address familiarity with US higher-education practices, such as credit hours, general education courses, and undergraduate research mentoring.
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Emphasise any prior international collaboration or mobility, which signals adaptability to new academic systems.
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Be realistic and transparent about visa timelines, while focusing your documents on academic merit rather than immigration details.
Finally, avoid common errors such as missing documents, mismatched position titles in your cover letter, or research plans that require equipment far beyond what a regional university usually supports.
Conclusion: Is This Forensic Chemistry Faculty Position Right for You?
The Assistant Professor – Chemistry & Physics – Forensic Chemistry position at Southeast Missouri State University is a strong option for chemists who want to blend rigorous science with real-world forensic application. The role emphasises undergraduate teaching, accessible yet meaningful research, and sustained engagement with students and external partners in the forensic community.
If you hold a PhD in forensic or related chemistry, enjoy mentoring undergraduates, and are prepared to design a realistic research program, this tenure-track position can be a valuable step in your academic career. Prospective applicants should read the official job posting and university application portal carefully, prepare well-structured materials, and submit early for full consideration. In doing so, you strengthen your chances of joining a department where forensic chemistry is not just a course title, but a comprehensive pathway from laboratory to courtroom.
Summary Table
| Feature |
Details |
| Program Name |
Assistant Professor – Chemistry & Physics – Forensic Chemistry |
| Host Country |
United States (Cape Girardeau, Missouri) |
| Funded By |
Southeast Missouri State University |
| Duration |
Tenure-track faculty appointment (ongoing, subject to tenure review) |
| Study Mode |
Full-time, on-campus teaching and research |
| Eligibility |
PhD in forensic chemistry or related chemistry field by start date; college-level teaching experience; potential for undergraduate-focused research |
| Financial Support |
Faculty salary (depends on qualifications) plus standard university benefits; exact package not specified in public advert |
| Fields of Study |
Forensic chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, related chemistry disciplines with forensic applications |
| Deadline |
21/01/2026 for full consideration; position open until filled |
| Official |
American Academy of Forensic Sciences |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What degree do I need for the Assistant Professor Forensic Chemistry position? You need a PhD in forensic chemistry or a closely related chemistry field, completed by the official start date of the appointment
Is this Assistant Professor role at Southeast Missouri State University tenure-track? Yes, the position is a full-time tenure-track assistant professor appointment in the Department of Chemistry and Physics.
Can international candidates, including from India, apply for this job? International candidates can apply if they meet the academic, teaching, and research requirements and can later fulfil US work-authorisation processes.
What is the application deadline for full consideration? The advert specifies 21 January 2026 as the date for full consideration, while the position remains open until filled.
What teaching responsibilities does the Assistant Professor have? You will teach forensic chemistry and other chemistry courses at both introductory and advanced levels, with a strong focus on undergraduates.
How important is research in this forensic chemistry faculty role? Research is very important; you must develop a productive program that actively involves undergraduate students in meaningful forensic chemistry projects.
Does the job advertisement specify the salary? The official posting lists compensation as “depends on qualifications,” which is common for US faculty positions at this level.
Where can I find the official application portal? You can access the application form through the link provided in the AAFS job advertisement, which redirects to the Southeast Missouri State University page on SchoolJobs.com.
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