Assistant Professor, Environmental Geologist

Otterbein-University; Westerville (OH); On-site; USD 56,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Otterbein University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Earth Science with a primary specialization in Environmental Geology.

The appointment begins in August 2027 and includes teaching Environmental Science courses (lecture and lab), advising students, service on committees, and directing the Environmental Science program.

PhD is required; candidates should have strong teaching and publication records, and an active undergraduate research agenda.

Qualifications

• PhD is required for this full-time, tenure track position.
• Broad training in environmental geology and environmental science.
• Evidence of effective teaching in environmental science lecture and lab courses is required.
• Strong publication record is required.
• Active research agenda including undergraduate students; mentoring experience.
• Preference for experience developing introductory and upper-level environmental science courses.

Responsibilities

• Teach 21 workload hours in the academic year including: Introduction to Environmental Science lecture & lab, Physical Geology lecture & lab, Environmental Geology lecture & lab, and Hydrology lecture & lab.
• Advise students and participate in university and departmental committees, developing an active undergraduate research program.
• Direct the Environmental Science program.

Skills

Environmental geology

Environmental science

Teaching experience

Research mentoring

Publication record

Education

PhD required

Job description

Otterbein University invites applications for the position of a full-time, tenure track Assistant Professor of Earth Science with a primary specialization in Environmental Geology. We seek candidates who will contribute to the department’s efforts to enhance diversity and provide an inclusive learning environment for all.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach 21 workload hours in the academic year including: Introduction to Environmental Science lecture & lab, Physical Geology lecture & lab, Environmental Geology lecture & lab, and Hydrology lecture & lab.
• Contribute to university life through student advising, service on university and departmental committees, and developing an active research program that incorporates undergraduate research students.
• Direct the Environmental Science program.

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD is required for this full-time, tenure track position.
• Strong candidates will be broadly trained in environmental geology and environmental science.
• Evidence of effective teaching in environmental science lecture and lab courses is required.
• Strong publication record is required.
• The candidate must demonstrate an active research agenda that can include undergraduate students, excellence in undergraduate teaching, and experience in mentoring students.
• Preference will be given to individuals with prior experience in developing and teaching environmental science courses at the introductory and upper levels.

COMPENSATION

For the rank of Assistant Professor - $62,226 (plus full University benefits).

START DATE

This appointment begins in August 2027.

DEPARTMENT

The Department consists of approximately 300 students, 9 full-time and 9 part-time faculty, a laboratory coordinator and an administrative assistant. It offers majors in: Environmental Science, Biology, and Zoo & Conservation Science, including an Aquarium Track. Many of our faculty and students are also involved with interdisciplinary programs in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Sustainability. The Department is an active participant in the Integrative Studies Program and offers global education travel courses. Visit us at https://www.otterbein.edu/biology-earth-science/ to learn more about the Department of Biology & Earth Science and the Biology, Environmental Science, and Zoo & Conservation Science majors.

OTTERBEIN UNIVERSITY

Historically progressive. That is the hallmark of Otterbein University and those connected to this private university nestled in the picturesque, historic Uptown Westerville district in central Ohio and minutes away from Columbus, Ohio’s largest city. Otterbein has set the pace by providing an educational experience that is progressive, innovative, and inclusive. Students come from towns throughout Ohio, as well as many states and multiple countries, enriching the campus through their individual and collective diversity. As a university that educates students of various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, we strive for and value a diverse faculty and staff that reflects our student population and Franklin County. Otterbein is the first university in Ohio to be selected by the American Association of Colleges and Universities to host a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Center. Otterbein will work with its own campus community as well as the Columbus City and Westerville City school districts to create positive narrative change about race; promote racial healing activities; and erase structural barriers to equity and opportunity. To learn more about Otterbein, visit www.otterbein.edu.

WHERE

Otterbein University is located in Westerville, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, and has received notable national designations, including two appearances on Money Magazine’s Top 100 list of America’s ‘Best Places to Live’ and recognized as one of Forbes’ ‘America’s Friendliest Towns.’ Westerville has a population of approximately 37,000 people and combines the beauty and convenience of a medium-sized community with the cultural, educational, and economic benefits of Columbus, the state capital, a thriving and diverse metropolitan area of 1.4 million people. Central Ohio is the fastest growing area in the state with stability provided by a diversified economy.

Otterbein University’s achievement of academic excellence depends on its commitment to inclusion and belonging. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Otterbein University is an EEO Employer.