"Assistant Professor in Environmental Geology"

Assistant Professor in Environmental Geology

Department of Geographic and Environmental Sciences
University of Louisville, Louisville, KY

The Department of Geographic and Environmental Sciences (DGES) at the University of Louisville invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Environmental Geology, with an anticipated start date of Fall 2026.

We seek a broadly trained environmental geologist whose teaching and research will strengthen the department’s Environmental Sciences program. Areas of expertise may include, but are not limited to hydrogeology, environmental geology, soil and rock mechanics, groundwater contamination, geohazards, or applied geological analysis in support of environmental systems. Applicants whose work bridges geology with environmental sustainability, climate resilience, water resources, or geospatial modeling of the health effects of the physical environment are especially encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the department’s Environmental Sciences program and contribute to the existing graduate and undergraduate programs that focus on environmental analysis and human-environment interactions. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to mentoring students, teaching courses such as natural disasters, geomorphology, and environmental geology, and to develop new courses in their area of expertise. Ideally, candidates will possess research interests that align with the department’s academic offerings and include the pursuit of extramural funding to support Master’s Degree students. Candidates will possess a Ph.D. degree in geology, environmental geology, or a closely related field at the time of appointment; however, ABD applicants will be considered.

The successful applicant is expected to develop an externally funded research program that involves students at multiple levels. University of Louisville’s R1 designation provides extensive opportunities for collaboration across disciplines and college units. Interdisciplinary engagement is strongly encouraged, with institutional support for joint projects, proposal development, and access to shared research facilities.

The DGES offers B.S. and M.S. degrees in Applied Geography and plays a leading role in supporting the university’s agenda in environmental science and geospatial pedagogy and research. The successful applicant will join a vibrant research community with departmental specialties in environmental science, geospatial technologies, meteorology, urban analytics, and human and cultural dynamics. The department’s physical facilities are excellent, including the University Center for GIS and several environmental science laboratories. The department has strong ties with other units across campus and community organizations, including environmental agencies, nonprofits, and research centers.

Preferred Qualifications:

• College-level teaching experience.
• Ability to conduct applied research in environmental geology or related areas.
• Ability to collaborate with other departments/disciplines in teaching and scholarly activities.
• Potential for collaboration with public, private and/or non-profit organizations.
• Expertise in applied geospatial techniques, encompassing GIS, statistical analysis, and environmental fieldwork.

The University & Community:

The University of Louisville is a nationally recognized research university located in a diverse metropolitan area of 1.4 million people. The city of Louisville offers a vibrant cultural community and is frequently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Louisville is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status.

Application Instructions:

Applicants must apply online at www.louisville.edu/jobs. Please reference Job ID # R107575. Through the online system, please submit a single PDF document containing:

• A cover letter outlining teaching and research interests
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information (including email and phone number) for three professional references
• Sample teaching evaluations (if available)

The review of applications will begin on November 15, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

For further information about the position, contact Dr. Charlie Zhang, Chair of the Search Committee, at c.zhang@louisville.edu.