"Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP) Associate Professor"

About the Job

We seek applications for a tenured faculty position at the associate professor level in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP). The faculty member will join a vibrant community of interdisciplinary scholars at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, maintain a research affiliation with the Center for Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (CSTEP), and support graduate students in the M.S. in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (MS-STEP) professional degree program, the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program, and the certificate program in Sustainable Environmental, Social and Governance Leadership.

Successful candidates must demonstrate their ability to sustain and grow an innovative and socially impactful research portfolio that addresses contemporary policy questions related to water resources, sustainable agriculture, or the nexus of food-energy-water issues. Research portfolios that apply sustainability science, environmental governance, institutional, environmental justice, and indigenous studies approaches are particularly of interest. We welcome applications from scholars employing a broad range of methodological approaches in their research with a preference for applicants who have a demonstrated commitment to community-engaged and interdisciplinary scholarship.

Applicants may have disciplinary backgrounds in public policy, public affairs, environmental studies, sustainability science, environmental economics, environmental sociology, political science, geography, or related fields. Candidates should be able to teach graduate-level courses in environmental systems analysis, one methodological course, and a seminar course in their area of expertise.

Candidates must be committed to scholarly and socially impactful research; provide leadership to established Masters, Ph.D., and certificate programs at the Humphrey School; be willing to help prepare students for careers in energy, sustainability, or environmental policy; function collaboratively in a multi- and interdisciplinary environment; and help ensure the long-term capacity of the School as a center of excellence for professional education, service, and scholarship.

This search is for candidates at the associate professor rank. Candidates should demonstrate a nationally or internationally recognized research program, a consistent record of high-quality publications, significant success in securing external research funding, and a record of excellent teaching and service.

The starting date for this appointment is August 31, 2026 or as soon thereafter as possible. This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

All candidates must hold a Ph.D. by the time of employment. See preferred qualifications in the description above.

About the Department

The Humphrey School of Public Affairs is committed to academic excellence and diversity in every facet of its work and in its mission: to educate, engage, and equip leaders and communities to discover solutions that advance the common good in our diverse world. The School is ranked in the top 5% nationally among U.S. based schools of public affairs, is NASPAA-accredited, and known for its research and public engagement in local, state, national, and international policy spheres.

The Humphrey School works to enrich the diversity of the University community and encourages faculty applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply. Our concept of a diverse community encompasses people with identities that have been historically marginalized in our society and underrepresented in higher education and the realm of public affairs, particularly: scholars from the Global South; Black, Indigenous, and people of color; new immigrants; people with disabilities; women and people of all gender identities and expressions; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and first-generation college students. We seek candidates whose approach to teaching and research is innovative and inclusive in terms of structurally or historically underrepresented groups. The Humphrey School also recognizes issues of access and climate for individuals who might encounter barriers based on their religion, age, national origin, ethnicity, or veteran status. We are committed to creating, inviting, and welcoming individuals into an environment where all people may learn and contribute with a sense of belonging.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $122,000.00 - $142,000.00 ; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Applications should include their curriculum vitae, the names and contact information of three references, a sample of recent research, a research statement, and a cover letter with a brief account of research, teaching, and impact.

Applications will be reviewed beginning December 8, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.