Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET)
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Start: Fall 2027
Salary: $92,000–$97,000 (12-month) + up to 21% external
Full Consideration Deadline: Priority deadline November 30, 2026; Closing date December 31, 2026
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) and the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) are committed to building a faculty that reflects the diversity of the nation and the scientific workforce. We strongly encourage applications from scholars from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, women, first-generation college graduates, scholars with disabilities, and others whose backgrounds and life experiences will enrich our academic community.
UMBC has a recognized institutional culture of inclusive excellence. IMET's strategic plan explicitly prioritizes broadening participation and workforce development in the aquatic and marine sciences.
About the Position
The Department of Marine Biotechnology at UMBC invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position beginning Fall 2027. The successful candidate will establish a vigorous, externally funded research program using molecular biology and genetics to investigate viral and microbial diseases of importance in finfish aquaculture.
Research focus areas include host-pathogen interactions, immunology, disease prevention, vaccine development, and pathogen diagnostics. The position is also well suited for applied aquaculture technology research including recirculating and precision aquaculture, stress diagnostics, disease-stress interactions, and probiotic strategies.
Research Home
The position is based at IMET, a research-intensive, purpose-built institute on Baltimore's Inner Harbor, home to the Aquaculture Research Center. Faculty from UMBC, the University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB), and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) collaborate across disciplinary boundaries. The Chesapeake Bay watershed provides a distinctive backdrop for aquatic and estuarine research.
Mentoring, Teaching & Community
IMET and UMBC offer a supportive environment for early-career faculty, with:
- Formal mentoring structures for tenure-track faculty
- Participation in the cross-campus MEES Graduate Program, with a diverse graduate student community
- Undergraduate research and outreach opportunities, particularly serving UMBC's diverse student body
- Connections to UMBC's Meyerhoff Scholars Program, the nation's leading model for minority STEM achievement
- Support for public engagement and K–12 STEM outreach in the Baltimore community
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in molecular biology, microbiology, marine biology, aquatic pathology, or related field
- Postdoctoral experience in a relevant research area
- Peer-reviewed publication record
- Commitment to mentoring students from diverse backgrounds
- Vision for an externally funded research program relevant to aquaculture and/or coastal ecosystem health
- Evidence of teaching and mentoring qualifications
Compensation
Annual salary $92,000–$97,000 (12-month), commensurate with experience, with opportunity to earn an additional 21% through external grants and contracts. Competitive start-up package provided.
How to Apply
Apply at apply.interfolio.com/195816 by November 30, 2026 for full consideration. Submit: cover letter (please address your commitment to inclusive mentoring and broadening participation), CV, research plan (2–3 pages), teaching and mentoring philosophy (1–2 pages), and three reference letters.
UMBC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.