Assistant Professor of Geosciences - Hard Rock Geosciences and Critical Minerals

The University of Oklahoma seeks a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the general fields of mineralogy, geochemistry, and petrology with a focus on critical minerals to join the School of Geosciences in the Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy in 2026.

We seek a candidate who will bring innovative research, teaching, and mentoring methods and become a key part of the School of Geosciences’ teaching and research mission. We welcome applicants who utilize a broad range and combination of research tools and techniques, including but not limited to field observations, analytical methods, modeling, and/or experimental methods applied to the study of rocks and critical mineral exploration, metal mobilization and concentration, and related areas at the interface of hard rock geosciences, sustainability, energy, and materials science.

The successful candidate is expected to establish a robust, externally funded research program, teach core undergraduate courses (e.g. physical geology, mineralogy, and geochemistry) and graduate courses in their area of expertise, and contribute to service at the unit, campus, and professional levels. The candidate is expected to advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students on research projects in their area of specialty. Areas of specialty can include, but are not limited to, mineralogy, igneous or metamorphic petrology, high-temperature geochemistry, volcanology, structural geology, geochronology, thermochronology, and planetary sciences.

The candidate will join dynamic and collegial faculty at the School of Geosciences. The School maintains a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, instruments, and laboratories that are available for research and teaching, which include the Electron Microprobe Laboratory, Samuel Roberts Noble Microscopy Laboratory, Bartell Field Camp, Kessler Field Station, Mass Spectrometry lab, Oklahoma Geological Survey core and data repositories, and the OU Supercomputing Center for Research and Education (OSCER). Salary, benefits, and start-up funds will be competitive and commensurate with experience.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Earned Ph.D. in Geology, Earth Science, or a related field associated with geosciences. ABD applicants will be considered, but a completed Ph.D. is required at the time of employment.
• Strong writing, organization, facilitation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Potential to develop an impactful, internationally recognized, externally funded research program.
• Commitment to teaching undergraduate and graduate courses that engage students from a wide range of backgrounds as they explore the field, provide the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the geoscience workforce, and encourage students to become active members of the scientific community.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading collaborative projects and working with interdisciplinary teams.
• Postdoctoral or other professional research experience.
• Established publication record in the field of Hard Rock Geosciences.
• Demonstrated teaching record.
• Potential for collaborations within the School of Geosciences and across the University of Oklahoma.

Application Instructions

Applicants are invited to submit a comprehensive cover letter (maximum four pages) addressing all aspects of the position, including teaching plan, research interests (if applicable), service contributions, and mentorship of students, current CV and contact information for three references to apply.interfolio.com/173173. The cover letter may include how you will fulfill all aspects of this faculty position, including examples of the following: candidate’s relevant experiences with teaching, research, service, and graduate student mentorship. Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

This institution is using Interfolio's Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a complimentary Dossier account and can submit all application materials at no charge.

The committee will begin reviewing applications on October 31, 2025, and on-campus interviews will start in early spring of 2026. The search will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated starting date is August 16, 2026. Questions or information requests may be addressed to Dr. Hector Lamadrid (lamadrid@ou.edu).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Mission of the University of Oklahoma: The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.