PhD Position in Geophysical Sciences

University of Chicago

Department of the Geophysical Sciences
The University of Chicago

Description

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences in the Physical Sciences Division at the University of Chicago invites applications for the position of Senior Instructional Professor (open rank). The selected candidate will be appointed as Assistant Senior Instructional Professor, Associate Senior Instructional Professor, or Senior Instructional Professor, with rank determined by qualifications. The appointment will be for a term of up to five years, renewable with the possibility for promotion. This is a nine-month, career-track position with competitive salary and benefits. Appointment is expected to begin on September 1, 2026.

Serving as the Director of a new Master’s Program in Environmental Science, this position is responsible for providing instructional oversight of the program. The successful candidate will be responsible, in consultation with faculty leadership, for leading and directing the program. Duties include:

• Developing new curriculum with an emphasis on Environmental Data Science
• Admissions
• Teaching
• Advising
• Supervising capstone projects
• Managing non-student employees in the program

The Department of the Geophysical Sciences provides a vibrant environment in which scientists conduct research across broad areas that span the past, present, and future evolution of Earth, its life, and its cosmic environment. The Department supports a PhD program in Geophysical Sciences and undergraduate degrees in Geophysical Sciences and Environmental Science.

Base Salary Ranges

(for a nine-month academic appointment):

• Assistant Senior Instructional Professor: $95,000 – $115,000
• Associate Senior Instructional Professor: $105,000 – $130,000
• Senior Instructional Professor: $120,000 – $150,000

Individuals may be eligible for summer salary.
This position may also be eligible for a taxable moving allowance.

This role is benefits-eligible. Benefits information can be found here:
https://mybenefits.nfp.com/UChicago/benefits-guide/

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications

• Completion of all requirements for the PhD in Environmental Science, Geology, or closely related field at the time of appointment
• At least two years of university-level teaching experience as instructor of record

Preferred qualifications

• Professional experience in an academic setting and strong organizational skills
• Experience in management of academic programs, personnel, and/or budgets

Application Instructions

Applicants must apply online via the University of Chicago Academic Careers website:
https://apply.interfolio.com/175642

Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

Required materials

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., course evaluations or other assessments)
• Evidence of successful program management or potential to do so
• Teaching statement
• Syllabi of courses taught
• Two confidential letters of recommendation requested through Interfolio

The University of Chicago is using Interfolio’s Faculty Search platform. Applicants receive a free Dossier account and may send all application materials, including confidential letters, free of charge.

For help with Interfolio, contact:
Email: help@interfolio.com | Phone: (877) 997-8807