Assistant Professor- IL- Physiology

The Department of Physiology, College of Graduate Studies at Midwestern University (MWU; Downers Grove IL; http://www.midwestern.edu) invites applications for a full time, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree, have completed at least two years of post-doctoral training, and possess excellent oral and written communication skills. A strong background in general physiology is required, however preference will be given to applicants with experience teaching human renal and/or respiratory physiology. Being capable of effectively teaching animal physiology is desirable. A successful candidate must demonstrate a genuine passion for teaching and a strong commitment to educating future health-care professionals.

The physiology faculty team-teach in both discipline-specific and integrated basic science courses that serve students pursuing master’s degrees in biomedical sciences, and professional degrees in Osteopathic Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, and other professional healthcare programs. Faculty members are eligible for joint appointments in additional colleges based on research or teaching collaborations.

Candidates are expected to establish an independent biomedical research program with the potential to attract extramural funding. The area of research is flexible, and both internal and external collaborative opportunities are strongly encouraged. Support for research activities includes access to a newly developed core equipment facility with strengths in histology, confocal imaging, and molecular and analytical biology. The MWU Animal Resource Facility is AAALAC accredited, and the institution holds NIH R15 (REAP) eligibility status. Dedicated laboratory space and start-up funds are provided to support the candidate’s research endeavors.

Applications review will begin on April 1^st, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. If you would like to learn more about this position, please submit your application through Midwestern University’s online job board at https://www.midwestern.edu/employment-mwu.

Application packet must include:

1. A cover letter summarizing your interest in and suitability for a faculty position at MWU.


2. Curriculum Vitae, including your formal teaching experience, if any.


3. Personal statements of Teaching Philosophy, and Research Interests and Goals.


4. Contact information for a minimum of three references.

While applications must be submitted online, inquiries should be directed to:

Rafael Mejía-Alvarez, M.D., Ph.D.

([email protected])

Professor of Physiology & Department Chair

Midwestern University

555 31st Street

Downers Grove, IL 60515

Midwestern University is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides graduate and post-graduate education in the health sciences. The University has two campuses, one in Downers Grove, Illinois and the other in Glendale, Arizona. More than 6,000 full-time students are enrolled in graduate programs in osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing anesthesia, cardiovascular perfusion, podiatry, optometry, clinical psychology, speech language pathology, biomedical sciences and veterinary medicine. Over 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff members are dedicated to the education and development of our students in an environment that encourages learning, respect for all members of the health care team, service, interdisciplinary scholarly activity, and personal growth.

This 12-month faculty position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, fully funded by the university. The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans as well as life insurance, short/long term disability and pet insurance.  We offer flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.  We offer a work life balance with competitive time off package including paid holidays, sick/flex days, personal days and vacation days.  We offer a 403(b)-retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, childcare subsidy reimbursement program, identity theft protection and an employee assistance program.  Wellness is important to us, and we offer a wellness facility on-site with a fully equipped fitness facility. 

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws and regulation. Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/). Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.