Assistant Professor of Physical Geography

IMDiversity; Fullerton (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

California State University, Fullerton invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Physical Geography with appointment beginning Fall 2027. The successful candidate will teach introductory and core courses, contribute to curriculum development, and supervise student learning across the department.

We seek a physical geographer using scientific methods to study natural processes and Earth systems, with interests in water resources, coastal processes, and related

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geography required; ABDs welcome if degree completed by start date.
• Evidence of teaching ability and scholarly potential desired.
• Experience with GIS methods in teaching and research is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach introductory and core Geography courses and courses in area of specialization.
• Develop and update curriculum and supervise student learning.
• Advise students and participate in departmental and university service; pursue scholarship for tenure.

Skills

Teaching

Research

Communication

Curriculum development

Education

Ph.D. in Geography

ABD in Geography

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Assistant Professor of Physical Geography
California State University, Fullerton in Fullerton, CA

Type: Full-Time

Category: Geography

Assistant Professor of Physical Geography
Department of Geography & the Environment
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Assistant Professor
Fall 2027

The Department of Geography & the Environment at California State University, Fullerton, invites applications for a tenure‑track Assistant Professor position in Physical Geography with an appointment to begin Fall 2027.

Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment

This position is open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. CSUF complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

In addition, California State University, Fullerton is a leading public university known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. As one of the largest campuses in the CSU system, Cal State Fullerton fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. The university values teaching, research, and service, creating an environment where students, staff, and faculty can thrive. Cal State Fullerton is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. The university also received the prestigious Seal of Excelencia in 2021 and 2024 from Excelencia in Education, the nation's leading authority on Latinx student success. Cal State Fullerton is an equal opportunity employer with a diverse student population of over 45,000 and a faculty and staff population of 4,000. Cal State Fullerton is firmly committed to helping students achieve academic excellence, career success, and economic mobility. Joining Cal State Fullerton means becoming part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a meaningful impact. We continuously seek individuals from various disciplines who share the university's mission and core values. We welcome you to consider joining the Titan community.

CSUF is committed to retaining all faculty and has established affinity groups you can join to support your success.

Position

We seek a physical geographer using scientific methods to understand natural processes and Earth systems. We are open to a range of physical geography subfields. Applicants with the following areas of specialization are encouraged to apply: water resource sciences, conservation biogeography, and coastal and marine physical and biological processes.

CSUF faculty are committed teacher/scholars who bring research and creative discovery to life for students in classrooms, labs, studios, and individually mentored projects. They teach broadly in the curricula of their departments, advise students, and serve on departmental and university-wide committees. The primary responsibilities of the person in this position will include the development and teaching of introductory and core courses in the discipline and courses in their area of specialization. Existing courses this person could teach include, but are not limited to: Introduction to the Natural Environment, Global Environmental Problems, Geomorphology, Natural Vegetation, Desert Landscapes, Coastal Environment, senior and graduate level Geographic Information Systems (GIS), mountain field geography, and graduate level Physical Geography courses in their area of specialization. It is preferred that applicants are able to integrate GIS methods into their curriculum. This person will also be responsible for producing scholarship commensurate with the requirements for tenure. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to and participate in the life and development of the department, advise students, serve on committees, and participate in the broader university and disciplinary communities.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Geography, with a specialization in Physical Geography. ABDs are welcome to apply, but must show evidence that the degree will be completed by the time of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

A proven record of teaching
Research experience in physical and/or environmental geography supported by a record of scholarly accomplishments [publications, conference presentations, etc.]
Field experience and an interest in leading students in the field
Proficiency in GIS technologies for teaching and research
Excellent written and oral communication skills