St. Francis Xavier University
The Department of Biology at St. Francis Xavier University invites applications for a nine-month limited term appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin on August 17, 2026. This position is subject to final budgetary approval.
We seek applicants with a foundational background in biology (an undergraduate degree in Biology or related field) and a PhD. Preference will be given to individuals with previous classroom teaching experience and strong communication skills.
The primary responsibility of the successful candidate will be teaching two sections of Biology 111 Introductory Cell Biology in the fall term and one section of Biology 201 Animal Biology in winter term. Biology 111 serves students from most programs in the Faculty of Science and a small number of students from other faculties, while Biology 201 serves students in Biology and several other science programs. The position is also anticipated to include teaching two (single term) third or fourth year courses in cell biology or the candidate’s area(s) of expertise. These could include existing courses or newly developed “selected topics” courses.
St. Francis Xavier University has a long-standing liberal arts and science approach to education. Upper level classes are small, with substantial interactions between faculty and students in lecture, laboratory, and field settings. Training and/or experience teaching undergraduates according to modern pedagogical practices are assets for the position.
We seek candidates who are committed to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion; candidates should indicate concretely in their application how they plan to contribute towards these principles in the performance of their teaching activities.
About the Department
To learn more about the Department of Biology, St Francis Xavier University, please visit our website available at Biology Department | St. Francis Xavier University.
Application Instructions
Consideration of applications will commence on February 11, 2026 will continue until the position is filled.
To apply, please submit a single PDF file with bookmarks that includes the following:
- Cover letter outlining your suitability for the position (max 2 pages; please indicate whether you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident);
- Curriculum vitae;
- Statement describing evidence of your teaching effectiveness (max 500 words); and
- Names and email addresses of three references.
Applications should be sent via email to:
Dr. Russell Wyeth, Chair
Department of Biology
2320 Notre Dame Avenue
St. Francis Xavier University
Antigonish, Nova Scotia, B2G 2W5, Canada
Email: [email protected]; Telephone: 902-867-3841
St. Francis Xavier University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People.
Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Indigenous persons (especially Mi’kmaq), racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians), persons with disabilities, those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact People and Culture at [email protected] or 902-867-5038.
About St. Francis Xavier University
Established in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is consistently recognized as one of the best universities in Canada. StFX exceeds the needs of today’s undergraduates through providing the very best academic experience — outstanding teaching, exceptional hands-on research opportunities, and global exchanges — all within Canada’s most vibrant and inspiring residential campus. Here, the focus is on the academic and the personal development of every student, making community and social engagement a large part of the learning experience. Our students are academically strong and highly engaged in every aspect of life, determined to make a positive impact on the world. In 2022, Maclean’s annual university rankings put StFX #1 in student satisfaction and #2 in reputation across Canada in the primarily undergraduate category. For more, visit www.stfx.ca.
About Antigonish, Nova Scotia
The beautiful and historic town of Antigonish is located within the northeastern corner of Nova Scotia. Only a 15-minute drive from the ocean and a two-hour drive to major urban centres, Antigonish is a family-friendly community with a diverse and growing population and provides access to excellent education at all levels. The town is surrounded by rolling countryside and beautiful beaches and is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, sports and other active lifestyle activities. Antigonish supports a vibrant culture in the arts with music, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, and fabulous festivals happening throughout the year. For more information visit www.townofantigonish.ca or www.visitantigonish.ca.