Welcome to your ultimate guide for University of Alaska (System) Jobs. Located in the heart of Alaska's rugged landscapes, the University of Alaska System is a powerhouse for academic careers, offering professor positions, research jobs, and lecturer roles that emphasize innovation in extreme environments. Whether you're a job seeker eyeing faculty jobs at University of Alaska (System) or a student exploring higher education jobs, this page provides tailored insights into salaries in University of Alaska (System) academia, academic opportunities, and more. Dive into rate professors at University of Alaska (System) via Rate My Professor, and discover why this institution stands out for its commitment to Arctic research and community impact. With trends pointing toward increased demand in environmental sciences and indigenous education, now is the perfect time to pursue academic careers at University of Alaska (System). Explore Higher Ed Jobs filtered for University of Alaska (System) and elevate your career today.
About University of Alaska (System)
The University of Alaska (System) is a public university system established in 1917, originally as the Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines in Fairbanks. It has grown into a comprehensive network comprising three main universities: University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), and University of Alaska Southeast (UAS), with additional community campuses across the state. The system's mission is to inspire learning, advance and disseminate knowledge through teaching, research, and public service, with a strong emphasis on the unique needs of Alaska's diverse populations, including indigenous communities. Key achievements include leading research in Arctic climate change, geosciences, and biological sciences, contributing to global understanding of polar environments. Campuses are located in Fairbanks (main research hub), Anchorage (urban center), Juneau (southeast focus), and beyond, serving over 26,000 students. For more details, visit the University of Alaska (System) Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Alaska, and Academic Jobs in Fairbanks.
Historically, the system has evolved from its mining roots to become a leader in higher education, with UAF designated as a Land, Sea, and Space Grant institution. It boasts notable programs in engineering, natural resources, and Alaska Native studies, fostering interdisciplinary research that addresses real-world challenges like permafrost thaw and sustainable energy. The university's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its support for Alaska Native languages and cultures, making it a vital institution for the state's indigenous populations. In recent years, it has expanded online and hybrid learning options, adapting to Alaska's vast geography. With a focus on community engagement, the system partners with local industries in oil, fishing, and tourism, providing students and faculty with practical experience. This overview highlights why University of Alaska (System) is a beacon for academic careers, offering unique professor positions and research jobs in a setting unlike any other.
Key departments include the College of Natural Science and Mathematics at UAF, known for its work in atmospheric sciences and wildlife biology; the College of Engineering and Mines, pioneering in cold regions engineering; and the Alaska Native Knowledge Network, which integrates traditional knowledge into modern academia. The system's research output is impressive, with over $100 million in annual funding, much of it directed toward climate resilience and environmental monitoring. For academics interested in higher education jobs at University of Alaska (System), the institution's emphasis on collaborative, impactful work makes it an ideal place to build a career. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct access to faculty, enhancing learning experiences in this remote yet vibrant academic community.
Faculty Job Opportunities at University of Alaska (System)
Faculty job opportunities at University of Alaska (System) are diverse and in high demand, particularly in fields aligned with Alaska's unique environment. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor in Environmental Science, Research Fellow in Geosciences, and Lecturer in Indigenous Studies. According to recent trends from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, there's growing need for experts in climate change adaptation, renewable energy, and biological conservation, with the system hiring for positions that support Arctic research initiatives. For instance, the University of Alaska Fairbanks often seeks faculty in the Department of Biology and Wildlife, where roles involve fieldwork in remote areas. Salary ranges, based on 2023-2025 data from Glassdoor and university disclosures, start at around $70,000 for Assistant Professors, rising to $100,000+ for tenured roles, influenced by department and experience. These figures are competitive, considering Alaska's cost of living adjustments and benefits like housing allowances.
In the College of Engineering, professor positions at University of Alaska (System) focus on cold-weather infrastructure, with job trends showing increased openings due to federal funding for climate resilience projects. Lecturer roles in education departments are also prevalent, addressing teacher shortages in rural Alaska. Academic careers at University of Alaska (System) often include opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, such as joint appointments in natural resources and policy. Job seekers can find listings on AcademicJobs.com, filtered for higher education jobs at University of Alaska (System). With a focus on diversity, the system encourages applications from underrepresented groups, enhancing its inclusive environment. Explore professor positions University of Alaska (System) and research jobs University of Alaska (System) to align your expertise with these dynamic opportunities.
Factors like grant funding and publication records play a key role in hiring, with the university prioritizing candidates who can contribute to its research mission. Recent trends indicate a shift toward online and hybrid teaching roles, expanding access across Alaska's vast terrain. For those interested in faculty jobs at University of Alaska (System), networking through conferences like the Arctic Science Summit is recommended. Salaries in University of Alaska (System) academia reflect the institution's commitment to attracting top talent, with additional perks like sabbaticals and professional development funds. Link to Higher Ed Jobs for current openings, and consider Research Jobs for specialized positions.
Assistant Professor in Geosciences 💼
Focus on Arctic geology; salary $75,000-$95,000.
Lecturer in Biology 🎓
Teach undergraduate courses; salary $65,000-$85,000.
Research Fellow in Climate Science 🔬
Lead funded projects; salary $80,000-$110,000.
Associate Professor in Engineering 📊
Tenure-track with research focus; salary $90,000-$120,000.
Why Work at University of Alaska (System)
Working at University of Alaska (System) offers unparalleled appeal for academic careers, with its focus on pioneering research in Arctic sciences and indigenous knowledge. Faculty enjoy access to world-class facilities like the International Arctic Research Center, fostering collaborations that impact global policy. Career prospects are robust, with high tenure rates and opportunities for advancement in departments like Natural Resources and Environment. Unique benefits include relocation assistance, comprehensive health plans, and sabbaticals for fieldwork in stunning Alaskan landscapes. Researched data from university reports highlight low faculty turnover due to the supportive community and emphasis on work-life balance. Compared to other institutions, University of Alaska (System) stands out for its commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance, making it ideal for those passionate about real-world applications. Explore Higher Ed Jobs and Higher Ed Career Advice for more insights.
The system's location in Fairbanks provides a gateway to natural wonders, enhancing research in fields like permafrost studies. Academics benefit from generous funding, with over $120 million in grants annually, supporting innovative projects. This environment nurtures professional growth, with mentorship programs and conferences that connect faculty globally. For job seekers, the appeal lies in contributing to Alaska's future while enjoying competitive salaries in University of Alaska (System) academia and a sense of purpose in addressing climate challenges.
Salary Guide for Faculty at University of Alaska (System)
The Salary Guide for Faculty at University of Alaska (System) reveals competitive compensation, influenced by factors like experience, department, and location. Based on 2023-2025 data from sources like the AAUP Faculty Salary Survey and university transparency reports, average salaries range from $70,000 for entry-level Assistant Professors to $140,000 for Full Professors in high-demand fields like engineering. For example, in the Geosciences department, Assistant Professors earn $75,000-$90,000, while those in Education might see $65,000-$80,000, adjusted for Alaska's higher cost of living. Experience adds 5-10% per promotion level, with bonuses for research grants. Location in remote areas may include stipends, making total packages attractive. Compared to national averages, University of Alaska (System) offers above-median pay in STEM fields due to specialized needs. Factors affecting pay include tenure status, publication record, and administrative duties. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries and University Salaries.
In the College of Natural Sciences, salaries trend higher for roles involving federal funding, such as climate research, where Associate Professors average $95,000-$115,000. Lecturer roles, often non-tenure, start at $60,000 but can reach $85,000 with experience. The system provides benefits like retirement matching and health coverage, enhancing overall value. Recent trends show salary increases of 3-5% annually to combat inflation and retain talent. For academics considering faculty jobs at University of Alaska (System), understanding these ranges helps in negotiations. Data indicates that departments like Engineering offer the highest paid professors at University of Alaska (System), reflecting demand for expertise in Arctic infrastructure.
Union representation through United Academics ensures fair pay scales, with collective bargaining leading to periodic adjustments. External factors, such as state funding, impact budgets, but the university's endowment supports stability. Job seekers should note that salaries in University of Alaska (System) academia are supplemented by opportunities for consulting in industries like oil and gas. This guide underscores the financial viability of academic careers at University of Alaska (System), making it a top choice for those seeking rewarding higher education jobs.
| Role | Average Salary 📊 | Department Example 📍 |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $70,000-$90,000 | Geosciences |
| Associate Professor | $85,000-$110,000 | Biology |
| Full Professor | $100,000-$140,000 | Engineering |
| Lecturer | $60,000-$85,000 | Education |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at University of Alaska (System)
Discover top educators at University of Alaska (System) through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform allows students and academics to rate professors at University of Alaska (System), helping in course selection and recognizing teaching excellence. Ratings highlight strengths in programs like environmental science and indigenous studies, where faculty excel in engaging, real-world instruction. Use it to find the best fits for your academic journey. For more, visit Rate My Professor.
Dr. Matthew Wooller (Geosciences)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Expert in paleoclimatology, praised for interactive lectures.
Dr. Syndonia Bret-Harte (Biology)
Rating: 4.7/5 - Focuses on Arctic ecology, noted for supportive mentoring.
Dr. Lance Twitchell (Alaska Native Languages)
Rating: 4.9/5 - Passionate about indigenous studies, highly engaging classes.
Dr. Cathy Cahill (Atmospheric Sciences)
Rating: 4.6/5 - Leads in aerosol research, appreciated for practical applications.
Dr. Todd Brinkman (Wildlife Biology)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Emphasizes fieldwork, excellent for hands-on learning.
Career Progression at University of Alaska (System)
Career progression at University of Alaska (System) follows a structured path, starting from Assistant Professor to Full Professor, with salaries increasing from $70,000 to $140,000 by rank. Tenure-track positions emphasize research output and teaching, with opportunities for funding through NSF grants in Arctic studies. Professional development includes workshops and mentorship, tailored to the university's strengths in environmental science. Researched data shows average time to tenure is 6-7 years, with high success rates in STEM fields. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice for guidance.
Factors like interdisciplinary collaborations enhance advancement, particularly in research centers. Academic opportunities at University of Alaska (System) include administrative roles, boosting salaries by 20%.
Research and Innovation at University of Alaska (System)
Research at University of Alaska (System) centers on Arctic innovation, with trends in climate modeling and biodiversity. Major areas include the Geophysical Institute's work on aurora and earthquakes, funded by over $100 million annually. Collaborations with NASA and indigenous groups drive impactful projects. Explore Research Jobs.
Innovation hubs like the Alaska Center for Energy and Power focus on sustainable tech, offering opportunities for faculty.
Resources for University of Alaska (System) Academics
- Professional development via faculty workshops 🎓
- United Academics union for advocacy 💼
- Benefits including retirement and health plans 📊
- Research funding portals 🔬
Student Life and Perspectives at University of Alaska (System)
Student life at University of Alaska (System) features outdoor activities and cultural events, with programs in STEM and humanities leading to strong career outcomes. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Resources include advising centers and scholarships.
Perspectives highlight the close-knit community and hands-on learning in Alaska's wilderness.