Assistant Professor, Biology

Cape Breton University

The Department of Biology in the School of Science and Technology at Cape Breton University invites applications for a Tenure-Track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Biology with an emphasis in Human Anatomy and Human Biology. This position will commence on July 1, 2024 (or as soon as possible thereafter).

One of Canada’s youngest and most ambitious universities, CBU recognizes its location on Cape Breton Island as part of Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. CBU offers a comprehensive set of liberal arts, science, and professional programs and a unique commitment to community, economic development, aboriginal learning, and research into many aspects of environment and culture. Currently home to approximately 8000 students, CBU’s vision of higher education allows students to pursue diverse fields of study in programs with national reputations in final year student satisfaction, faculty-student interaction, and employability.

CBU delivers an authentic multicultural experience to all who become part of its academic community. Surrounded by pristine natural landscape, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities on Canada’s stunning east coast, CBU attracts students from more than 50 countries around the world. Our faculty bring passion to their teaching and research and we are known for our friendly and inclusive culture. Strong community involvement and a spirit of entrepreneurship enhance CBU's position in post-secondary education.

The successful candidate will perform the duties and responsibilities outlined in Article 18 in the CB Faculty Association Collective Agreement.

Candidates must have as minimum requirements: (1) a PhD or equivalent degree in Human Anatomy or related field by July 1, 2024. Candidates who are in the later stages of their PhD may be considered with the successful completion of the PhD being a condition of employment, (2) a demonstrated record of performance in university-level teaching, and (3) demonstrated research productivity. Candidates with a record of interdisciplinary University teaching, in-person, online, and/or in-community are preferred. A commitment to using evidence-based teaching methods in the classroom is also preferred.

The successful candidate will deliver undergraduate courses in Human Anatomy, Human Biology, and Biomechanics, including the Human Anatomy course required for the Bachelor of Science (Nursing). The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to teach upper-level courses in their field of interest or to expand the Department’s health-based curriculum. For instance, they will develop new courses to enhance and innovate the existing Anatomy curriculum. These courses may include: Functional Anatomy, Gross Anatomy, Histology (Microscopic Anatomy), and/or Developmental Biology.

The search committee seeks candidates who demonstrate flexibility and range in their secondary areas of teaching and are committed to innovative forms of pedagogy, including online delivery. The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with other faculty to deliver their courses and contribute to an interdisciplinary learning environment. The ability to participate in other teaching activities of the Department (e.g., Human Physiology for Nursing) will be considered an asset. We seek a candidate who demonstrates a strong commitment to student-centered undergraduate education.

The successful candidate will also conduct discipline-based research in Anatomy, or a related field, and undertake relevant service activities within the University such as committee work, and for the broader academic and professional community. The capacity to develop an externally funded research program is also expected. Research activities in collaboration with undergraduate students are strongly encouraged.

Applicants should have fluent written and oral communication skills in English. Applications must include all the following documents: Letter of Application, Curriculum Vitae, Statement of Human Anatomy Teaching Experience and Competency, Minimum of two reference letters detailing the applicant’s past anatomy teaching performance, Statement of research interests and evidence of research productivity, Names and contact information of three academic references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

CBU teaches programs on campus, off campus in locations across and outside of Canada, and on-line. The university and its partners will therefore provide opportunities for faculty members to teach in different modes in different locations as part of their regular workload. While these opportunities may not be available equally for all faculty positions in all programs, a clear willingness to teach in different modes and locations will be noted as part of your application.

The union affiliation of this position is with the Cape Breton University Faculty Association.

View https://cbu.peopleadmin.ca/postings/2635 for more information and to apply.

Applications must be received by May 15th 2024.


Cape Breton University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff, our faculty and its scholarship including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply but applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Cape Breton University
Human Resources Dept.
1250 Grand Lake Road
Sydney, NS B1M 1A2