Visiting Assistant Professor- Habitat Restoration and Applied Ecosystem Science

Sul Ross State University; Alpine (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Sul Ross State University is seeking a Visiting Assistant Professor in Habitat Restoration and Applied Ecosystem Science. This full-time position focuses on developing research programs addressing ecological challenges in the Chihuahuan Desert.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and experience in habitat restoration, applied research, and securing funding. Responsibilities include mentoring students, publishing research, and collaborating with diverse teams.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in habitat restoration and/or applied ecosystem management.
• Evidence of a peer-reviewed publication record is required.
• Experience in designing and implementing field-based research.

Responsibilities

• Develop applied research program focused on rangeland and wildlife habitat restoration.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Lead research proposals to secure external funding.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students.

Skills

Habitat restoration

Applied ecosystem management

Quantitative and analytical skills (R, statistics)

Education

Ph.D. in Ecology, Rangeland Science, or Wildlife Biology

Job description

Job Title

Visiting Assistant Professor- Habitat Restoration and Applied Ecosystem Science

Location

Alpine

Department

Borderlands Research Institute

Job No.

G98231

Posting Date

06/10/2026

Appointment Date

09/01/2026

Salary

Competitive and commensurate with experience, with a comprehensive benefits package.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Ecology, Rangeland Science, Wildlife Biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in habitat restoration and/or applied ecosystem management.
• Evidence of a peer-reviewed publication record is required.
• Experience in designing and implementing field-based research.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills (e.g., program R, statistics, or spatial analysis).

Preferred Qualifications

• A background in one or more of the following areas is preferred: soil ecology, hydrology restoration, livestock grazing systems and rangeland management, wildlife ecology and habitat relationships, invasive species or brush management, and remote sensing, GIS, or UAS applications.
• Preferred candidates will also demonstrate success or strong potential in securing research funding, experience mentoring graduate students or leading teams, and the ability to collaborate with private landowners, non-governmental organizations, or industry partners.

Primary Responsibilities

The Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University seeks applicants for a full-time, 12-month Visiting Assistant Professor specializing in habitat restoration and applied ecosystem science in arid and semi-arid systems. This research-focused role (75% research, 25% optional teaching) centers on interdisciplinary research that addresses challenges in the working landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert. The successful candidate will develop and lead an applied research program in rangeland and wildlife habitat restoration, focusing on studies that assess plant community and ecosystem responses to restoration efforts. Responsibilities include managing all phases of research (e.g., study design, fieldwork, data collection, analysis, and publication), and actively seeking external funding through competitive grant proposals. Additional duties include mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, managing research teams in field and analytical settings, and fostering a collaborative environment to ensure timely project completion. The role requires close collaboration with internal teams and external partners, including landowners, non-governmental organizations, and industry representatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop applied research program focused on rangeland and wildlife habitat restoration.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and technical outlets.
• Lead and contribute to the development of research proposals to secure external funding.
• Collaborate with a diverse team representing broad disciplinary backgrounds.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students in their research activities.
• Opportunities may be available to teach undergraduate or graduate courses, depending on program needs and candidate interest.
• Manage a team of graduate students in both field-based and analytical components of research. Provide guidance on study design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Ensure timely progress of student research projects and degree completion.

Equal Opportunity

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

It is the policy of Sul Ross State University to provide equal employment opportunity for all persons in accordance with their individual, job related qualifications and without consideration of race, creed, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status and ancestry. Equal employment opportunities shall be afforded in all personnel actions or decisions including, but not necessarily limited to, recruitment, hiring, training, upgrading, promotion, demotion, termination and salary. Retaliation is prohibited against a person who opposes a discriminatory practice, files a charge, testifies, assists or participates in an investigative proceeding or hearing.