Responsibilities

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:

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

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Instructor of Forensic Science:

Master’s degree in forensic science or closely related discipline from an accredited university.
Ability to teach effectively (both online and in traditional settings) at the university level in an undergraduate forensic science degree program.
Ability to effectively engage in scholarly and service activities.
Ability to effectively advise and mentor students.

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:

Ph.D., or equivalent, in Forensic Science or a closely related discipline from an accredited university.
Ability to teach effectively (both online and in traditional settings) at the university level in an undergraduate forensic science degree program.
Ability to effectively engage in scholarly and service activities.
Ability to effectively advise and mentor students.

Preferred Qualifications: Assistant Teaching Professor:

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.

Compensation

Salary commensurate with experience.

How to apply

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 December 1, 2025. 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
richard.swearengin@usm.edu

Apply