Margaret and Herman Sokol Endowed Chair of Chemistry

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Job Description

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Montclair State University invites applications for an endowed faculty position: the Margaret and Herman Sokol Endowed Chair of Chemistry. This appointment offers opportunities to advance impactful research as part of the Margaret and Herman Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences. 

We seek an individual whose vision of academic leadership integrates cutting-edge scientific discovery with student success, career preparation, and societal impact. Candidates must have a distinguished record of either scholarly achievement, including demonstrated success in developing and sustaining impactful, externally funded research programs, or scientific leadership and significant impact in industry. A commitment to excellence in education and the training and development of future scientists is essential. 

The Endowed Chair of Chemistry is intended for a scholar whose research is focused in areas broadly defined as medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, drug discovery, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, computational and AI-enabled approaches to therapeutic development, biologics, and biomaterials. They will be expected to maintain a nationally recognized program of scholarship and innovation while contributing to the academic mission of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry through undergraduate and graduate teaching, service, and student mentorship. The successful candidate will be placed simultaneously in a tenure-track faculty position at the rank appropriate to his or her experience and qualifications. Tenure upon appointment may be available to candidates whose qualifications are consistent with university standards. Appointment to the Endowed Chair is for a five-year term, eligible for renewal subject to a performance review. The successful candidate may have the opportunity to serve as the Director of the Margaret and Herman Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences. 

The position is intended for an accomplished scholar with credentials appropriate for appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Candidates must possess a Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry,  medicinal chemistry, or closely related field. Applicants should demonstrate excellence in research, teaching and/or mentoring and be able to contribute to the University's mission.

TEACHING: The successful candidate will be a member of the department's organic chemistry faculty group and will contribute to the department's organic chemistry teaching and curriculum development. The standard annual load for tenure-track faculty is 12 teaching credit hours (TCH) a semester, with reassigned time (course release) available for faculty with additional responsibilities such as mentoring doctoral faculty or administering programs, as described above. Faculty are expected to center student success and measurable learning outcomes through clear course design, inclusive pedagogies, and the integration of emerging disciplinary and pedagogical developments. Responsibilities include classroom instruction, student mentoring and advising, and developing and updating courses and curricula aligned with student demands and institutional strategic priorities. 

RESEARCH, SCHOLARSHIP, AND CREATIVE ACTIVITY: Faculty are expected to be productive scholars or artists whose work embodies formal inquiry or creative expression that expands, enhances, or applies knowledge. Research results must be shared in significant national and/or international scholarly or artistic venues following rigorous review. The University supports these endeavors through the Faculty Scholarship Program (FSP), which typically provides research-active faculty with up to 3 TCH of reassigned time per semester to pursue their scholarly agenda. The Sokol Professorships include an additional 3 TCH of reassigned time per semester to pursue research. Therefore, the maximum teaching load is 6 TCH per semester.

SERVICE: Faculty members are expected to perform valuable service to the department, college/school, university, and professional communities. This includes participating in shared governance, academic program vitality, and sharing professional expertise within and beyond the University. Service activities are separate and distinct from the specific assignments for which faculty members receive course release. 

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION: 

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Montclair State University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in chemistry and related fields. Undergraduate students can pursue degree options including an American Chemical Society-certified BS in Chemistry, a BS in Biochemistry, a BS in Chemistry with teacher certification, a BS in Chemistry with business concentration, and a BS/PharmD articulation program with Rutgers University. Graduate students can pursue an MS in Chemistry, an MS in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Concentration, or an MS in Pharmaceutical Biochemistry.

The department emphasizes hands-on learning and research, providing students with opportunities to apply and go beyond their classroom knowledge in cutting-edge projects throughout the academic year and summer. The department maintains a small-school community feel among our majors while educating a large, diverse student body. Our faculty work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment that yields personal growth and high-quality educational opportunities for our students, many of whom are first-generation college students and / or from groups traditionally underrepresented in chemistry and other STEM fields. Recent graduates from the department have a track record of success enrolling in prestigious PhD programs in chemistry, medical school, dental school, pharmacy school, and finding employment with a variety of companies. The department is committed to the success of teaching faculty by providing faculty peer support, collaboration, and opportunities for professional development to support their long-term success at the university.

Mission of The Margaret and Herman Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences: Established in 2007 within the College of Science and Mathematics at Montclair State University, the Margaret and Herman Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences advances research and innovation aimed at addressing global health challenges. The Institute fosters transdisciplinary collaboration among faculty, students, academic partners, and industry researchers across fields including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, biochemistry, natural products chemistry, molecular biology, computational sciences, and environmental toxicology. It also supports research in emerging areas such as biomaterials, biopolymers, and nanotechnology. The Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences conducts multidisciplinary research in chemistry and biology aimed at advancing human health. Faculty, students, and research staff collaborate across disciplines to drive scientific discovery while providing emerging scientists with the skills and experience needed for impactful careers that benefit society.

COLLEGE DESCRIPTION:

The College of Science and Mathematics at Montclair State University empowers the next generation of STEM leaders through rigorous academics, hands-on discovery, and inclusive excellence. Our mission is grounded in a student-centered philosophy that values the dedication of our faculty, the curiosity of our students, and a shared commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. With modern facilities and cutting-edge technology, we offer distinctive undergraduate and graduate programs across the Departments of Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Earth and Environmental Studies, Mathematics, and Physics and Astronomy and the School of Computing. Through a research-driven curriculum, community-engaged learning, and real-world problem-solving experiences, CSAM equips students with durable skill sets to meet the demands of an evolving world. By cultivating strong partnerships with industry, government, and nonprofit organizations, the College drives economic growth, advances environmental sustainability, and strengthens the STEM workforce across New Jersey and beyond.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED:

• Strong foundation in Chemistry or Biochemistry.
• Earned doctorate Chemistry, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or closely related field. 
• A minimum of 6 years of independent academic or industry experience.
• Record of achievement sufficient to be hired at either the Associate or Full Professor level and potential for future success in research and scholarship in areas consistent with the mission of the Sokol Institute.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching and / or relevant industry supervisory and mentoring experience.

PREFERRED:

• A record that demonstrates interest and commitment to service.
• A demonstrated  record of leadership experience in an academic or industrial setting.

STARTING DATE: August 27, 2027

REQUIRED MATERIALS: 

• A cover letter describing the candidate's interest in the position and their vision for the future of the Margaret and Herman Sokol Institute for Pharmaceutical Life Sciences.
• A current curriculum vitae.
• A statement of current and future research plans, including strategies for sustaining and expanding an externally funded research program.
• A statement of teaching philosophy and mentoring practices.
• Three letters of recommendation. 

APPLY BY: Review of applications begins immediately.

Questions about this position can be directed to [email protected].

Salary Range

$117,154.78-$172,054.66 Annually

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/   

Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.

Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions. 

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Position Type

Faculty

Contact Information:

For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email [email protected].

Inclusion Statement

Montclair State University values access and educational excellence. We are committed to an environment of diverse perspectives which ensures that graduates will be civically engaged, committed to democracy, and prepared to thrive as global citizens. We foster a community that promotes varied experiences and voices. We seek applicants who will contribute diverse ideas and perspectives and who value an environment that promotes educational growth and advancement for all.

EEO/AA Statement

Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.

Additional information can be found on the website at 
www.montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/

Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy

Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities.  The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/