Job Description

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.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States Division School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security Position Type Faculty Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded No Pay Grade Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

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 October 25, 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:
Dr. Xuyang He,
Search Committee Chair
School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security
118 College Drive # 5127
Hattiesburg, MS. 39406
Xuyang.He@usm.edu


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, fully functional mock courtroom.

The CrimeScene 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, 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

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 school, college, and university expectations.
5. Attending school, college, and university meetings and recruitment events.
6. Organizing and managing laboratory activities.
7. Performs other duties as assigned.
   

• 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 untraditional 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.

• 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
At least three years of professional experience in forensic science.
Expertise in
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 entomology, courtroom testimony.
Teaching, Mentoring, and service experience at the 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

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.