Assistant Professor of Sports Medicine – Biomechanics/Functional Anatomy

Seaver College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences at Pepperdine University seeks a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Sports Medicine specializing in Biomechanics/Functional Anatomy to begin August 1, 2027. This position is based at the Malibu campus and focuses on teaching within the Natural Science Division.

About the Role

The successful candidate will contribute to the university’s mission through teaching, research, mentoring undergraduates, and service. Seaver College emphasizes the holistic development of students and seeks scholar-educators who are passionate about teaching, committed to establishing a productive research program, and eager to mentor undergraduate students in both academic and research settings.

Applicants must demonstrate an active commitment to Pepperdine’s Christian mission and reflect on their alignment with the university’s values in their application materials.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate courses in functional anatomy & kinesiology and at least one additional area within exercise science/kinesiology, such as biostatistics, movement analysis, or gross anatomy.
• Develop and maintain a productive research program involving undergraduate students.
• Mentor undergraduate students in teaching and research.
• Contribute to a rigorous curriculum in the exercise sciences.
• Collaborate with faculty across disciplines, including biology, nutrition, chemistry, and physics.
• Engage in service to the university, profession, and surrounding community.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in biomechanics, human anatomy, kinesiology (with emphasis on movement analysis), or a closely related field, completed by August 1, 2027.
• Post-doctoral experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated preparation for teaching undergraduate coursework in functional anatomy, kinesiology, and related areas.
• Ability to establish a research program that involves undergraduate students.
• Active commitment to the Christian mission of Pepperdine University.

Qualifications

Candidates should exhibit:

• Exceptional interest and effectiveness in teaching.
• A commitment to scholarly research and publication.
• Experience or potential for mentoring undergraduate students.
• Respect for workplace diversity and ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds.

Research and Facilities

Current research interests in the department include human performance in hypoxia, nutritional considerations for elite athletes, exercise during the perinatal period, and motor-control adapted populations. Well-equipped exercise science laboratories are available for both teaching and research. Scholarly collaboration among Sports Medicine faculty and interdisciplinary faculty is encouraged.

Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following:

• Cover letter.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Response to Pepperdine’s Christian mission.
• Statement of teaching philosophy (2–3 pages).
• Scholarly agenda outlining short- and long-term research goals (2–3 pages).
• Transcripts of all graduate work (unofficial copies acceptable during application; official transcripts required for selected applicants).
• Names and contact information for three references (who will provide confidential letters of recommendation if selected for interviews).

Pay

The salary for this appointment ranges from $91,527 to $97,701 per year, based on qualifications, experience, and market conditions.

Benefits

Pepperdine University offers a robust suite of employee benefits.

Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. For inquiries, contact the Search Committee Chair, Cooker Storm, at cooker.storm@pepperdine.edu.