Job Details

School of Criminal Justice, Wichita State University
Location: Wichita, KS – WSU Main Campus
Type: Full-Time, Faculty
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Position ID: 497860

Position Summary

Wichita State University (WSU) seeks an exceptional senior scholar–practitioner to lead and expand its Forensic Sciences programs within the historic School of Criminal Justice, founded in 1934. The School is the second-oldest of its kind in the nation and is nationally recognized for excellence in criminal justice, policing science, and crime intelligence.

The Forensic Sciences programs include:

• M.S. in Forensic Biology (new)

• M.S. in Forensic Firearms (new)

• B.S. in Forensic Science (established)

This 12-month appointment will be at the Professor or Associate Professor rank with tenure, depending on experience and qualifications. The Director will administer forensic programs, foster external partnerships, and lead efforts to obtain FEPAC accreditation, while maintaining an active teaching and research agenda.

Program Context

WSU offers a unique environment for forensic education, combining nationally recognized programs with the Innovation Campus, a 120-acre hub awarded the 2023 Emerging Research Park Award. Key partners include:

• ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives)

• Wichita Police Department & Sedgwick County Sheriff

• Airbus, Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation

• Department of Defense via the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR)

Faculty and students have access to cutting-edge labs, including:

• ATF Crime Gun Intelligence Center

• NNCTC II – NIBIN correlation lab

• Wichita Crime Gun Intelligence Center (WCGIC)

• ATF National Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory

This environment enables high-impact research, student mentorship, and collaboration with federal, state, and industry partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Forensic Sciences programs, including M.S. in Forensic Biology, M.S. in Forensic Firearms, and the B.S. in Forensic Science

• Develop strategic plans for program growth, recruitment, and retention

• Oversee student admissions, progress, and graduation in collaboration with the Graduate School

• Align program goals with School objectives and external partner needs

• Foster relationships with law enforcement, industry, and academic partners

• Lead FEPAC accreditation efforts

• Establish an active research program, securing external funding individually or collaboratively

• Mentor and advise students at undergraduate and graduate levels

• Teach courses within the forensic biology program

• Participate in departmental, college, and university service

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a field appropriate for at least one forensic concentration offered by WSU (e.g., Criminal Justice, Forensic Biology, Firearms, Toolmarks)

• Credentials and experience appropriate for senior rank with tenure

• Advanced skills and experience as an academic forensic scientist or equivalent operational forensic science practitioner

• Leadership experience in academic or professional forensic environments

• Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the higher education level

• Experience applying for external research funding

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with FEPAC accreditation or related accreditation processes

• Experience developing new academic programs

• Established record of scholarly research and publication

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of forensic laboratory policies and procedures

• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and law enforcement partners

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff, and community partners

Application Materials

Applicants should submit:

1. Cover Letter – Addressing interest, qualifications, and alignment with the position

2. Curriculum Vitae

3. Teaching & Research Statement – Detailing teaching philosophy, course topics, mentorship experience, research accomplishments, and future research plans

4. Contact information for three professional references

Review of applications will begin on October 31st and continue until the position is filled.

Physical Requirements

• Stationary work: 60–90%

• Operating computers and office equipment: 60–90%

• Ability to communicate clearly and exchange information: 60–90%

• Sedentary work: occasional exertion up to 10 lbs

This is a high-impact leadership role at a nationally recognized forensic education program, offering the opportunity to shape innovative graduate programs, conduct cutting-edge research, and collaborate with law enforcement and industry leaders.