Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences

Open Postings: We are seeking an Assistant Professor in Climate or Paleoclimate Science

We are hiring for a tenure-track, nine-month faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin in August 2025. We seek a candidate whose research broadly covers climate science, including modern climate dynamics, paleoclimate records, and/or links between the two. This candidate will support teaching a sophomore-level earth systems history course (GES 2250) required of all geology and environmental science majors, and develop a new upper-level course in climate or paleoclimate science. Additional teaching responsibilities may include supporting one or more existing courses such as: biogeochemistry, sedimentary geology, spatial data analysis, or introductory labs, depending on the candidate’s area of expertise. The candidate must have a Ph.D. in environmental science, geoscience, or a closely related field at the time of appointment and must possess a strong commitment to undergraduate education, mentoring undergraduate research, and developing an externally funded research program.

See https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/45836 for more details.  

Many students (and parents) come into our program a bit confused as to what the geosciences and environmental sciences actually are, and what kind of training our programs of study provide. Common questions we answer are:

• "Isn't geology just about rocks?" (no!)
  
• "What is better for the job I want? A geology degree or an environmental science degree?"
• "What's the difference between environmental studies and environmental science?"

The information on the "What should I major in?" page and our Programs of Study page will help you decide if a degree in Geology, a degree in Environmental Science, or a degree in another program is the right major for you!

If you're not yet sure you want to major in Geology or Environmental Science, take one (or more) of our many General Education classes - learn about water resources, environmental cleanup, dinosaurs, oceanography, natural disasters, energy resources, fossils, and of course... rocks.  According to Slate, "Introductory Geology classes are the best science electives" and we certainly agree!