"Assistant Professor - Geospatial Science (Forestry)"

SUMMARY

The Department of Environmental and Geospatial Sciences in the Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU) invites applicants for the position of Assistant Professor of Geospatial Science, a nine-month tenure-track appointment.

Teaching excellence is a fundamental goal of the geospatial science program and the university, and the incumbent is expected to contribute to instructions at the Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy levels in his or her specific areas of expertise. Possible undergraduate courses are Spatial Analysis and GIS in Natural Resources. Possible graduate level courses include Introduction to GIS and Geospatial Analysis, and GIS and Geospatial Applications. Opportunities exist to create additional undergraduate and graduate level courses in the incumbent’s area of expertise. Candidates with background in land surveying, GIS-related computer visualization, machine learning (ML), and/or deep learning (DL) are preferred.

The incumbent is also expected to develop a successful research program in Geospatial Science. Collaboration is critical for interdisciplinary work that addresses environmental science, natural resources, and forest ecosystems from multiple perspectives. Obtaining extramural funding, recruiting and mentoring graduate students, and publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals are expected. The successful applicant will provide outreach and service to the college, the university, the geospatial science profession, and the communities of Texas.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. degree in Geospatial Science or a closely related field. ABD candidates may be considered if Ph.D. is earned prior to start date.

JOB DESCRIPTION

This is a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track faculty position responsible for contributing significantly to Stephen F. Austin State University’s undergraduate and/or graduate programs through teaching, scholarship/creative accomplishment, and service. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the chair.

QUALIFICATIONS

Terminal degree in the field in which the individual will be teaching is required. ABD candidates may be considered if Ph.D. is earned prior to start date.

The rank of Assistant Professor is held by an individual who demonstrates the capability to produce research/scholarly/creative accomplishments, teach effectively, and provide service to the academic and general communities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Performs an equivalent of twenty-four teaching load credits (TLC) for the combined fall and spring semesters; reduction of teaching load through reassignment of duties is possible under certain circumstances.
2. Engages in research/scholarly/creative and service activities at levels that are appropriate to faculty rank and departmental tenure/merit criteria.
3. Provides services to the university and the profession.
4. Participates in promotion review of lower-ranked faculty members within the department.
5. When tenured, participates in tenure review of candidates for tenure.
6. May conduct supplemental instructional activities such as independent studies, internships, advising, and thesis/dissertation supervision.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. May receive course load reassignment when assigned administrative duties in support of the department/college/university.
2. May receive course load reassignment when assigned to prepare course material during the first semester/year when included as part of initial contract.
3. May receive course load reassignment when approved to conduct research/scholarly/creative accomplishment and service which exceed normal expectations.
4. May supervise the work of student and/or graduate assistants.
5. May serve on departmental, college, and university committees.
6. Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

1. Extensive knowledge in the field in which the individual will be teaching.
2. Ability to effectively teach undergraduate and/or graduate students.
3. Ability and commitment to conduct research and/or scholarly/creative accomplishments and service.
4. Ability to work within a collaborative faculty environment.
5. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
6. Ability to work effectively and patiently with students.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT

Required application materials include:

1. Cover letter: a letter of application which includes a listing of courses which the applicant feels qualified to teach and a statement of research interests
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Teaching philosophy statement
4. Research philosophy statement
5. Unofficial transcripts
6. A list of three professional references including email addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses

Applications will not be considered complete until all documents have been received. Official transcripts will be required prior to interview. Review of applications will begin on March 16, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

For more information, contact:
Dr. Yanli Zhang, Professor and Hiring Committee Chair
Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX 75962-6109
Phone: 936-468-3301; Fax: 936-468-2489
Email: zhangy2@sfasu.edu