"Assistant Professor in Forest Systems"

Job Details

The Department of Environmental Sciences at Western Washington University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in Forest Systems. We seek a teacher-scholar whose research focuses on forest ecosystems in the context of global environmental change.

Areas of emphasis may include, but are not limited to:

• Climate-driven changes in forest structure and function, including the impacts of altered temperature, precipitation, and wildfire frequency
• Carbon cycling and sequestration
• Deforestation and land-use change
• Impacts of invasive species, disease, and pests
• Urbanization and wildland-urban interface dynamics

We are especially interested in candidates whose work incorporates advanced quantitative and computational toolsets, such as:

• Remote sensing and geospatial analytics
• Coding and reproducible computational workflows
• Management and analysis of large or global datasets
• Downscaled regional climate or ecological modeling

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Establish and maintain an active, externally engaged research program in forest systems that supports both graduate (Master’s) and undergraduate research
• Teach a range of courses, including foundational offerings such as Forest Ecology, Biostatistical Analysis, Landscape Ecology, and Remote Sensing/GIS, as well as develop new courses aligned with their area of specialization
• Mentor and advise undergraduate and graduate students
• Contribute to departmental, college, and university service
• Demonstrate a commitment to inclusive, student-centered pedagogy and equitable learning environments

Required Qualifications

• PhD or ABD at time of application in Forest Ecology, Forestry, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field. If ABD, all degree requirements must be completed by June 15th of the first year of employment (e.g., June 15, 2027).
• Evidence of scholarly potential or a demonstrated record of peer-reviewed research.
• Demonstrated experience with quantitative and/or computational tools relevant to forest systems.
• Ability to teach core departmental courses and to mentor diverse learners.
• Potential to cultivate high-quality learning and working environments that are equitable and inclusive of individuals with diverse social identities and backgrounds.
• Commitment to establishing and sustaining a research program that engages undergraduate and M.S. students.

Preferred Qualifications

• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Demonstrated success or strong potential in securing external research funding.
• Experience developing new courses aligned with the candidate’s research specialty.
• Experience offering courses with a research focus, such as a CURE (Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience) approach.
• Teaching and scholarship interests and experience aligned with the Environmental Sciences Department’s goals.

Salary

The starting salary range for assistant professor appointment, tenure-track is generally between $77,000 - $82,000 with placement within the position’s salary range being based on qualifications and professional experience. The entire salary range for the assistant professor position is $77,000 - $93,000, with the upper end of the salary range typically being achieved through collectively bargained salary adjustments. Relocation assistance maybe available per university guidelines. Salary and start-up funds are to be determined upon being offered the position.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply here online (full URL: https://hr.wwu.edu/careers-faculty?job=502910).

A complete application should include:

1. Application Letter: A letter of application that addresses how you meet the qualifications for the position, your ability and commitment to fulfill the position responsibilities, and your availability to start as of September 16, 2026.
2. Diversity Statement (max 2 pages): A separate statement of demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion in teaching, scholarship and/or service describing past experience, contributions to diversity and inclusion efforts, the impact on students, faculty, staff and/or your field and a description of how you will demonstrate a commitment in these areas in teaching, research, and/or service at WWU.
3. Teaching Statement (max 2 pages): A separate statement of your teaching experience and/or interests, and plans for teaching introductory and advanced courses within the Environmental Sciences curriculum. Include a summary of teaching evaluations, if applicable.
4. Research Statement (max 2 pages, not including references): A separate detailed statement of your research interests, projects, and plans for student involvement.
5. Vita: A full curriculum vitae.
6. References: The names and contact information for at least three professional references. Please do not send letters of recommendation; these will only be required for semi-finalists, and will be automatically requested from the provided references via Western’s PageUp electronic application system.

Application review begins March 30, 2026. Position is open until filled. Apply now!

Inquiries about the position may be addressed to the search committee chair, Dr. Andy Bunn, at andy.bunn@wwu.edu.