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Open Faculty Positions

Drury University > Academic Affairs > Open Faculty Positions

Drury is a mid-sized private liberal arts institution known for its student-centered approach to education, with approximately 3000 students (including 1,400 traditional full-time, undergraduate students, 1200 undergraduate adult learners and 250 graduate students) and 110 full-time faculty. The University’s rigorous academic environment, intentional professional development experiences, and many professional clubs and organizations produce students who are prepared to be the next generation of leaders in their chosen careers. Drury’s dedicated and conscientious mentoring of students allows them to explore their personalities and many career options to find their best professional paths.

Drury is a member of the New American Colleges and Universities and is regularly recognized by national publications for its high-quality programs, highlighting it as the private university of choice in the Midwest for ambitious students seeking a liberal arts education integrated with selective professional programs. The University has been a catalyst for progressive changes in the region since its inception in 1873, and continues to be a leader in transformative educational experiences.

The university is located in Springfield, Missouri, centered in Springfield’s largest historic district. With more than 456,000 people in the metro area and millions of tourists each year, Springfield is rich with interesting and entertaining attractions, many dining options and a variety of shopping and cultural activities, as well as a plentiful and growing job market, great schools and excellent health care. Among Springfield’s finest assets are its beautiful scenery and clean environment.

Drury University is an open and welcoming community from a rich variety of cultures, races and socio-economic backgrounds. The mission and goals of the university dedicate the institution to being a community which “affirms the quality and worth of all peoples” and appreciates the “diversity of human culture, language, history and experience.”

Drury University does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, or veteran status in its programs and activities.

Administrative Openings

Director, Physician Assistant Studies

Drury University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Physician Assistant Program Director. Drury University’s College of Graduate Studies seeks a dynamic and visionary leader who can foster innovation, promote collaboration, and drive continuous improvement in program quality and outcomes. The Director is responsible for overseeing and leading all aspects of the PA program, ensuring its academic excellence, compliance with accreditation standards, and alignment with institutional goals. This is a full-time position with one clinic day per week.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide strategic leadership and foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Oversee academic programming to ensure it is current, relevant, and meets accreditation standards.
  • Maintain compliance with ARC-PA standards and ensure ongoing compliance with accreditation bodies.
  • Direct faculty and staff recruitment, mentoring, and evaluation.
  • Oversee student recruitment, success, and support.
  • Develop and maintain community partnerships with healthcare organizations, clinical sites, and professional associations.
  • Develop and manage the program budget, ensuring efficient use of resources.

Qualifications:

  • Master’s-level degree from an ARC–PA accredited program.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in PA education.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in clinical practice as a PA is preferred.
  • Current NCCPA certification and eligible for licensure in the state of Missouri.
  • Experience with the ARC–PA accreditation process.

About Drury University:

Drury University was founded in 1873 to offer an environment of strong academic discourse and intellectual achievement. Today, Drury is a small private university located in Springfield, Missouri, offering students a bold new academic experience with masters, baccalaureate and associate programs. The university breaks the mold of single majors and rigid formulas most often associated with traditional education. Drury’s ~4,000 students receive a blend of life credentials and career credentials, allowing them to pursue their intellectual passions while giving them the tools they need to be technically proficient and career-ready.

At the university’s core remains unchanging commitment to preparing students to live and work in today’s world. Diversity, service to communities, and quality academics are benchmarks of a Drury education. Through this intentional combination of study in professional and non-professional areas, students will learn to be flexible, innovative and creative problem solvers. They will go beyond traditional education and thinking by blending career, calling, life, community, self and service.

About the College of Graduate Studies:

The College of Graduate Studies at Drury University is recognized for master’s degrees and certificate programs that serve individuals who aspire to thrive and lead in their professions and service activities. The portfolio of offerings will provide professional credentialing for individuals across diverse employment sectors.

The College of Graduate Studies houses the Physician Assistant (PA) Program. The mission of Drury’s PA Program is to educate students to become physician assistants who are innovative leaders in the profession, practice evidence-based medicine, and are dedicated to facilitating healthy futures for the residents of southwest Missouri and beyond. The 27-month program provides student-centered, leadership-focused education in a collaborative environment using problem-based learning in combination with classroom-based teaching to emphasize early clinical experience and re-enforce critical thinking skills. Graduates of the Drury PA Program lead at every level of healthcare and beyond.

About the Community:

Springfield, MO, the state’s third-largest city, serves as a regional hub for higher education, manufacturing, and health care. Boasting nearly 100 parks and numerous bike trails, it seamlessly blends urban conveniences with small-town charm. Dubbed the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” Springfield entices visitors with its rich history, striking natural landscapes, and vibrant culinary offerings. Wander through its quaint downtown adorned with eclectic shops, tantalizing eateries, and captivating street art to soak in the city’s lively ambiance. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a plethora of activities, from hiking scenic trails in nearby state parks to enjoying fishing and boating on the pristine lakes dotting the area. With a myriad of dining options, golf courses, horseback riding opportunities, wineries, aerial tours, ziplines, spas, and shopping venues, Springfield and its surrounding Ozark region promise an unforgettable experience brimming with awe-inspiring beauty. Conveniently located about 2.5 hours southeast of bustling Kansas City, MO, Springfield serves as an accessible gateway to the wonders of the Midwest.

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Physician Assistant Program Director at Drury University should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:

Jamie Marcus, Vice President

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;

2. Updated CV;

3. Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by June 3, 2024 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Drury University is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Tenure Track Openings

Clinical Assistant Professor or Instructor of Biology – Exercise Physiology

Drury University is currently accepting applications for a Clinical Assistant Professor of Biology or an Instructor of Biology with expertise in exercise physiology. The position title will depend on the candidate’s terminal degree. Instructor candidates should possess a Ph.D. (ABD accepted) in biology or a related discipline within the biological sciences, while clinical candidates must have a terminal professional degree in a field of medical or rehabilitation services. Teaching experience is preferred.

The successful candidate will contribute to an established exercise physiology program within the biology department. The start date for this position is flexible, starting August 2024 or earlier. To apply, send a letter of interest, a current CV, a statement of teaching philosophy, official transcripts, a statement on inclusion in the classroom, and names of three references to:

Chair, Exercise Physiology Search Committee

C/O Kevin Ritter

Drury University

900 North Benton Avenue

Springfield, MO 65802

Complete applications may be e-mailed as a single PDF file to Kevin Ritter at kritter@drury.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Assistant Professor – Criminology/Criminal Justice

The Department of Behavioral Sciences at Drury University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Criminology/Criminal Justice. A doctoral degree in Criminology, Criminal Justice, or a related discipline is required. ABD candidates will also be considered. Teaching experience is preferred.

The department is interdisciplinary and offers undergraduate degrees in Criminology, Criminal Justice, Clinical and Behavioral Neuroscience, Psychology, and Sociology. The successful applicant will contribute to an interdisciplinary undergraduate program and teach courses such as introduction to criminology, criminological theory, corrections, juvenile delinquency, and policing.

The start date is August 2025. Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy statement, transcripts, a statement on inclusion in the classroom, and three letters of recommendation to: 

Chair, Criminology/Criminal Justice Search Committee

C/O Lori Sechler

Drury University (Pearsons Hall)

900 N Benton Ave

Springfield, MO 65802

Applications and letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to Lori Sechler at lsechler@drury.edu.

Review of applications will begin October 28, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to applications that are complete.

Drury University (www.drury.edu) is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Assistant Professor of Psychology – General/Experimental

The Department of Behavioral Sciences at Drury University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in General/Experimental Psychology or a related discipline. A doctoral degree in Psychology is required. ABD candidates will also be considered. Teaching experience is preferred.

The department is interdisciplinary and offers undergraduate degrees in Psychology, Clinical and Behavioral Neuroscience, Criminal Justice, Criminology, and Sociology. The successful applicant will contribute to an interdisciplinary undergraduate program and teach courses such as research methods, statistics, history of psychology, and social psychology. An essential component of the position will be mentoring students through all stages of the research process. We will give preference to candidates who have advanced training in statistics and other quantitative methods.

The start date is August 2025. Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching philosophy statement, transcripts, a statement on inclusion in the classroom, and three letters of recommendation to:

Chair, Psychology Search Committee

C/O Lori Sechler

Drury University (Pearsons Hall)

900 N Benton Ave

Springfield, MO 65802

Applications and letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to Lori Sechler at lsechler@drury.edu.

Review of applications will begin October 28, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to applications that are complete.

Drury University (www.drury.edu) is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Assistant Professor of Biology with expertise in Physiology

Drury University is currently accepting applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology with expertise in physiology. The successful candidate will contribute to an established program in biology by teaching courses in human and exercise physiology as well as mentoring undergraduates in research projects in the candidate’s area of expertise. Experience developing and completing research suitable for undergraduates is preferred.

Candidates must possess a Ph.D. in the biological sciences. Successful applicants will have experience teaching and mentoring undergraduates and demonstrate a commitment to serving undergraduate students through excellence and innovation in teaching and research.

To apply, send a letter of interest, a current CV, a statement of teaching philosophy including evidence of a commitment to creating an inclusive environment in the classroom, a statement of research interests suitable for undergraduates, and names and contact information for three professional references to:

Chair, Physiology Search Committee

Drury University (TSC)

900 North Benton Avenue 

Springfield, MO 65802

Complete applications may be e-mailed as a single PDF file to Tyler Norman at tnorman@drury.edu.

Review of applications will begin October 1, 2024 and continue until the position is filled.

Drury University (www.drury.edu) is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Open Rank/Tenure Track Faculty in Mechanical Engineering

The Engineering Department at Drury University is searching for adventurous spirits to join a small team building new mechanical and electrical engineering programs. Drury University is a small undergraduate-focused liberal arts school in Springfield, Missouri that welcomed its first engineering students in Fall 2024. 

We are seeking faculty with a passion for teaching undergraduates and a willingness to teach a variety of undergraduate mechanical engineering topics. While candidates from any mechanical engineering discipline are welcome to apply, preference will be given to those who have a background in and enthusiasm for teaching design for manufacturing and/or design. Preference will also be given to candidates whose interest areas complement existing faculty strengths in fluids, numerical methods, controls, and statics/mechanics of materials.

Requirements include doctorate and baccalaureate degrees in mechanical engineering or a closely related field. (Doctorate must be complete by the start of employment.) Essential job functions include teaching and advising students; service to the department, University, and professional communities; and professional development.

We welcome applications for tenure-track positions from candidates at any rank (Assistant/Associate/Full Professor) to begin fall 2025. Review of applications will begin December 2, 2024.

Applicants please submit:

  • A cover letter.
  • A statement that discusses your teaching philosophy and accomplishments, while demonstrating that you share our passion for teaching and mentoring undergraduate students.
  • A statement that discusses your professional development objectives. Professional development may include scholarship in all its forms, including the scholarships of discovery, integration, and application.
  • A current curriculum vitae.

Candidates should also provide evidence of a commitment to fostering and engaging with a diversity of ideas and experiences, which create an inclusive environment in the classroom and at the university.

Finalist candidates will also be asked to provide contact information for at least three (3) professional references capable of commenting on the appropriateness of your candidacy at Drury University.

Additional information on Drury and the Engineering Department is available from https://drury.edu/engineering.

For full consideration, candidates should submit their application materials no later than Tuesday, December 2, 2024. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Applications: Please send online applications/resumes to Tyler Norman at tnorman@drury.edu. Contact Dr. Bob Throne at rthrone@drury.edu for questions. EEO/AA

Drury University (www.drury.edu) is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Assistant Professor of Architecture in Design Innovation

The Hammons School of Architecture (HSA) at Drury University invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Architecture in Design Innovation whose teaching and scholarly work focus on the integration of contemporary design technology in teaching and scholarship. This full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position starts August 2025. 

HSA seeks talented individuals who advance architectural pedagogy, discourse, and practice through technological innovation in design. In particular, those who investigate issues of representation, making, process, and/or analytics, including – but not limited to – advanced representation, simulation, artificial intelligence, material and construction systems, outcome-based design, design integration, building performance, environmental modeling, and ecological design.

The successful candidate will join a faculty of colleagues dedicated to the craft of teaching and the preparation of design leaders. The individual will play a key role in furthering the school’s mission of design excellence through relevant scholarship and innovative educational contributions to the university and the disciplines of architecture.

Candidates must hold a graduate degree in architecture and should have an articulated line of inquiry with the potential to advance disciplinary knowledge. Integral to this position are contributions in teaching, scholarship, and service. Ideal candidates exhibit the ability to effectively teach a variety of courses at multiple levels of the curriculum including design studios, expertise-related electives, core classes, and possibly general or interdisciplinary offerings. The ability to develop a credible dossier of peer-reviewed scholarship through recognized design work, publication, research, exhibitions, funding or other means is expected.

HSA offers a NAAB-accredited, first-professional, M.Arch. degree in the context of a small private liberal arts university. The school has a historical and ongoing commitment to providing exemplary professional preparation within a broad and interdisciplinary curriculum recognized for fostering critical thinking and skilled stewardship. All HSA students study abroad, participate in professional internships, and attain minors and/or certificates that construct an individualized path through a uniquely interconnected program.

Drury University has a long record of effective engagement and activism in the Ozarks. Founded in 1873, the University is in Springfield, Missouri—the center of a metropolitan area approaching 500,000 in population. Additional information about Drury University, the Hammons School of Architecture, and the Springfield area can be found at https://www.drury.edu/https://www.drury.edu/architecture/, and https://www.springfieldmo.org/, respectively.

Review of applications will begin November 1, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. Applications are to be emailed (in pdf format) to Search Committee Chair Nancy Chikaraishi at nchikaraishi@drury.edu and should include:

  • letter of interest addressing qualifications, scholarship focus, teaching pedagogy, and vision for design education
  • current curriculum vitae
  • portfolio of personal and/or student design work
  • statement on diversity, equity, and inclusivity
  • contact information for three references.
Drury University, an equal opportunity employer, is fully committed to maintaining a diverse, inclusive environment where every community member treats each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome, and respect all identities and perspectives and are committed to increasing campus diversity. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

Non-Tenure Track Openings

Clinical Assistant Professor of PA Studies

Job Summary:

The Drury University PA Program welcomes applications for a 12-month, full-time faculty position at the rank of clinical assistant professor. Principal faculty will report directly to the Program Director of the PA program and must be team-oriented along with possessing excellent communication and problem-solving skills. The program seeks a PA, MD, or DO, pharmacologist, or pathophysiologist with at least 3 years of recent full-time clinical practice experience (or teaching if a pharmacologist or pathophysiologist) to join our team of collegial PA educators who have a track record of robust clinical experience, teaching, scholarship, and service both at the local, regional, and national level. A clinical or research day is provided to support the ongoing activities of our faculty, along with scheduling flexibility. The Drury University PA program is a developing program and provisionally accredited by ARC-PA. Our second cohort of 40 students begins in August. Drury is a 150-year-old institution, financially secure, and the PA program features newly constructed facilities, a small cohort of dedicated students with a low student-to-faculty ratio, a cadaver lab with a 5:1 student-to-donor ratio, and a very supportive administration.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Minimum Requirements

  • Master’s degree at minimum in PA, MD or DO, pharmacology, or pathophysiology is required.
  • Current NCCPA Certification or certified by an ABMS or AOA approved specialty board.
  • Eligible for Missouri state licensure as a PA
  • 3 – 5 years clinical experience (required) if PA, MD, or DO, teaching experience required if pharmacologist or pathophysiologist.
  • Instructional and presentation skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills.

Additional requirements include

  • Excellent teaching skills or potential to develop skills
  • Strong ability to organize, plan and multi-task
  • Above average initiative and team skills
  • Strong work ethic
  • Maintains an active physician assistant license

Clinical practice time and/or scholarly activity is encouraged.

How to apply: applicants should submit via email a letter of interest, statement of teaching philosophy, and current curriculum vitae, and a list of five references. Please forward all information to lherman@drury.edu.

For information about the PA program, please visit our website at https://www.drury.edu/graduate/master-of-science-in-physician-assistant-studies/.

About the Community

Drury University is located in vibrant downtown Springfield with an extensive selection of eclectic restaurants and exciting arts and culture. Springfield entices visitors with a relaxing small-town feeling with our local airport only 15 minutes away and literally 10 minutes from parking to departure gates, providing big-town access to vacation destinations and major hubs. These include direct flights to Orlando, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, Denver, and others. For professional sports fans, Springfield has access to major cities with Kansas City 2 ½ hours away and St. Louis 3 hours away. Springfield is a wonderful area to raise a family with a low cost of living, highly rated public schools, multiple universities, and extensive outdoor activities brimming with awe-inspiring beauty. These include nearly 100 parks, hiking, fishing, boating, mountain biking, camping, golf, hunting, horseback riding, wineries, and one of the highest-rated theme parks and water parks in the country. Springfield is on the western side of the Ozarks plateau, providing easy access to the Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas. We have two level-one trauma centers and many surrounding community-based healthcare institutions supporting our residents and the PA program.

Drury University is fully committed to upholding and advancing the creation of a diverse and inclusive environment where every member of our community will treat each other with dignity and respect. We recognize that diverse experiences enrich our institution and all who pass through it. We honor, welcome and respect all identities and perspectives.

Adjunct (per course) Teaching Opportunities

Occasionally we have a need for qualified instructors in specific disciplines to each on a contract-base appointment a semester at a time.

View Adjunct Teaching Opportunities