"Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies and Sciences"

Job Summary

The Environmental Studies and Sciences Program at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time tenure track faculty position in the College of Arts and Sciences in environmental science. This is an open-field search for candidates with principal training in natural science or engineering with expertise related to climate science and/or natural science dimensions of environmental public health. Initial appointment to this position will be for a term of four years, beginning fall of 2026, and will carry the rank of Assistant Professor.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will teach the standard teaching load (4.5 courses per year) including an introductory course (Environment and Society or equivalent) and upper level environmental science courses in their area of expertise that might include courses focused on the climate mitigation and adaptation technology and engineering, climate change and public health, citizen science for community resilience, distributional impacts of environmental toxins, etc. The incumbent will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly research and/or other creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research, and service on committees. The Department and the College actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including a paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year tenure track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.

Required Qualifications

Among the qualifications required for appointment is the PhD degree (in hand or expected by first semester of academic year 2026-27). Candidates must demonstrate commitment to and potential excellence in undergraduate teaching. Oberlin is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the distinctiveness and excellence of our academic community through their research, teaching, and service. The incumbent will bring understanding of or experience working with underrepresented and diverse academic populations. Oberlin recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran's status, and/or other protected status as required by law.

Compensation

Within the range established for this position, salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a competitive benefits package.

Special Instructions to Applicant

All application materials must be submitted electronically through Oberlin College and Conservatory's online application process. A complete application will be comprised of: 1) A cover letter describing your teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service, detailing how you contribute to an inclusive learning environment; 2) A Curriculum Vitae; 3) An unofficial graduate transcript; 4) Statement(s) on your teaching philosophy and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion; 5) teaching evaluations (if available); 6) A research statement that includes how you will support undergraduate research and, if applicable, how you might incorporate undergraduate students into your research program; and 7) Letters of Reference from three recommenders. Review of applications will begin on October 3, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Completed applications received by the October 3 deadline will be guaranteed full consideration. Questions about the position can be addressed to john.petersen@oberlin.edu or swapna.pathak@oberlin.edu or by phone at 440-775-8747.