Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science

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

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must complete an online application along with a
letter of interest, statement of teaching philosophy and goals,
current vita, and contact information for at least three professional
references. To receive priority consideration, applications must be received by January 7, 2026.  Official transcripts
will be required prior to a campus interview.

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).

Direct inquiries to:
Richard
Swearengin, Search Committee Chair
School
of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security
118
College Drive # 5127
Hattiesburg,
MS 39406
[email protected]

Job Summary
The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security at The University of Southern Mississippi invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure-track Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science to begin in Fall 2026. The teaching load for the position is four classes per semester (Fall and Spring).

The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security
(CJFSS) is an interdisciplinary school that offers undergraduate degrees in Crime
Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Criminal Justice,
as well as an undergraduate minor in Security Studies. The school also offers a
graduate program in Criminal Justice. The Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic
Biology, and Forensic Chemistry degree programs educate students on the various
forensic techniques used in the field and in laboratory settings. During their
course of study, students can pursue coursework and laboratory experience in
drug identification, serology and DNA, fingerprint analysis, crime scene
documentation, firearms identification, arson and explosives investigation, and
much more.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities  

1. Teaching, advising and mentoring students at the university level.
2. Online and face-to-face course delivery and instruction.
3. Preparing and submitting syllabi, grades, and other required course documentation in a timely manner.
4. Engaging in scholarly and service activities commensurate with university, college, and school expectations.
5. Attending school, college and university meetings and recruitment events.
6. Organizing and managing laboratory activities. 
7. Performs other duties as assigned.
   

Minimum Qualifications: Instructor of Forensic Science
Master’s degree in Forensic Science or closely related
discipline from an accredited university.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Instructor of
Forensic Science  

• Specialized knowledge in the field of forensic science as
  demonstrated through graduate level coursework 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 articulate concepts and instructions effectively to students.
• Ability
  to effectively engage in scholarly and service activities.
• Ability
  to effectively advise and mentor students.
• Strong
  written and oral communication skills.

Preferred
Qualifications: Instructor of Forensic Science
At least five years of professional experience in forensic
science, criminal justice, public safety, or related field.
Expertise and ability to teach in two or more of the following areas: forensic
quality management, survey of forensic science, introduction to forensic
science, crime scene documentation, fingerprint analysis, forensic photography,
digital forensics, firearms identification, arson and fire investigations,
accident reconstruction, crime scene reconstruction, shooting reconstruction,
bloodstain pattern analysis, forensic pathology, forensic biology, forensic
entomology, or courtroom testimony.
Teaching, mentoring and service experience at university level.
Experience with online course delivery and instruction (Canvas Learning
Management System).
Ability to help students obtain internships in forensic laboratories or law
enforcement agencies.

Minimum
Qualifications: Assistant Teaching Professor of Forensic Science
Ph.D., or equivalent, in Forensic Science or a closely
related discipline from an accredited university.

Knowledge,
Skills & Abilities: Assistant Teaching Professor of Forensic
Science

• Specialized
  knowledge in the field of forensic science as demonstrated through graduate
  level coursework 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 articulate concepts and instructions effectively to students.
• Ability
  to effectively engage in scholarly and service activities.
• Ability
  to effectively advise and mentor students.
• Strong
  written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications: Assistant Teaching Professor of
Forensic Science
At least five years of professional experience in forensic
science, criminal justice, public safety, or related field.
Expertise and ability to teach in two or more of the following areas: forensic
quality management, survey of forensic science, introduction to forensic
science, crime scene documentation, fingerprint analysis, forensic photography,
digital forensics, firearms identification, arson and fire investigations,
accident reconstruction, crime scene reconstruction, shooting reconstruction,
bloodstain pattern analysis, forensic pathology, forensic biology, forensic
entomology, or courtroom testimony.
Teaching, mentoring and service experience at university level.
Experience with online course delivery and instruction (Canvas Learning
Management System).
Ability to help students obtain internships in forensic laboratories or law
enforcement agencies.

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.