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Assistant Professor/Assistant Educator & Coordinator of M.S. in Forensic Firearms Program

Top 2 Percent Scientists · Wichita, Kansas Metropolitan Area · 2 wk ago
EducationFull-time

Position Summary

Wichita State University (WSU) invites applications for a forward-thinking faculty member to coordinate its new Master of Science in Forensic Firearms program within the School of Criminal Justice. This role is ideal for a scholar-practitioner seeking to combine teaching, program leadership, and research in a historic and nationally recognized criminal justice institution.

Program Context

The M.S. in Forensic Firearms is one of three forensic programs in the School:

  • M.S. in Forensic Firearms (new)
  • M.S. in Forensic Biology (new)
  • B.S. in Forensic Science (established)

The School also offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice, and a fully online B.S. in Homeland Security.

WSU’s Innovation Campus provides unique opportunities for faculty and students to engage with industry and federal partners, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Defense, Airbus, Spirit AeroSystems, and Textron Aviation. State-of-the-art facilities include:

  • ATF Crime Gun Intelligence Center
  • NNCTC II – NIBIN Correlation Lab
  • Wichita Crime Gun Intelligence Center (WCGIC)
  • ATF National Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory

Key Responsibilities

  • Cook up the Forensic Firearms Program, working with the Director of Forensic Sciences, School Director, and law enforcement partners
  • Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Forensic Firearms
  • Mentor students on research projects and professional development in firearms and toolmark analysis
  • Lead program admissions, coordinate with the Graduate School, and ensure successful student progression
  • Align program activities with the School’s objectives and industry standards
  • Participate in departmental, college, and university service initiatives
  • Engage with external partners, including the Midwest Criminal Justice Institute, ATF, and other federal, state, and local agencies
  • Conduct and publish scholarly research, integrating student participation where possible

Required Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in natural sciences, social sciences, or closely related field
  • Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching at the higher education level
  • Experience as a qualified/bench examiner in Firearm and Toolmark analysis within an operational forensic laboratory
  • Knowledge of ATF’s National Firearms Examiner Academy (NFEA) or equivalent national firearms/toolmark training program
  • Experience with courtroom testimony in firearms/toolmark examinations
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, students, and external partners

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in natural sciences, social sciences, or closely related field
  • Certified Firearms Examiner who has instructed or completed NFEA or an equivalent program
  • Familiarity with FEPAC accreditation processes
  • Leadership experience in academic or law enforcement environments

Application Materials

  • Complete Packet including:
    • Cover Letter – Addressing interest, qualifications, and alignment with the position
    • Teaching Statement – Detailing teaching approach, course topics, mentorship experience, and evidence of teaching effectiveness
    • Research Statement – Describing research accomplishments and future plans, with emphasis on student engagement and interdisciplinary or industry collaboration

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to remain in a stationary position: 60–90% of the time
  • Ability to operate computers and office equipment (phones, printers, copiers, calculators): 60–90% of the time

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