Location: Williamstown,MA, USA
Environmental Studies
Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in Land Systems and Environmental Science
Description
The Environmental Studies program at Williams College seeks to appoint an Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in environmental science who uses geospatial analysis to investigate the societal drivers and consequences of human-caused environmental change. Area of specialization is open and may include climate impacts on frontline communities; pollution and exposure; land use, agricultural and food systems; energy and infrastructure; environment and public health; coupled human and natural systems; water security; the food-water-energy nexus; biogeography; or quantitative analysis of socio-ecological systems. Scholars who utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are especially encouraged to apply. We are interested in any geographic focus but especially welcome scholars who work in the Global South as well as those who directly work with local communities, policymakers, NGOs, and/or activist organizations. A Ph.D. in environmental science, physical geography, environmental engineering, or related field is expected at the beginning of the appointment. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with marginalized identities in the field of environmental science.
The teaching load is two courses per semester and a January term course in alternate years, with adjustment made for larger enrollment courses and leading laboratory sections. The successful candidate will have a compelling vision for teaching a truly interdisciplinary Introduction to Environmental Science in a liberal arts context as well as intermediate and upper-level courses in their area of expertise. They will have a dynamic research program that actively involves students, with start-up funds available.
The Environmental Studies program at Williams College was established in 1967 and is recognized as one of the first undergraduate environmental studies programs in the world. The program prepares students to create just and sustainable futures by teaching them how to think across environmental systems. The successful candidate for this position will contribute to an interdisciplinary program in which all students undertake significant coursework in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The Zilkha Center for the Environment facilitates co-curricular environmental education and manages the Hopkins Memorial Forest, a 2600-acre long-term research site located 1.5 miles from campus. Faculty and student research in environmental science is supported by the Environmental Analysis Laboratory and the Science Center.
Alongside its strong support for scholarship, Williams College places a high value on undergraduate teaching. Thus, the search committee seeks applicants whose supporting materials demonstrate a commitment to inclusive teaching and working effectively with a student, staff, and faculty population that is broadly diverse with regard to dimensions including gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, religious views, socioeconomic status, and experience within higher education. The strongest candidates will demonstrate a commitment to creative teaching and a vibrant research program that speaks to and motivates undergraduates from diverse backgrounds. Williams offers faculty participation in the college's professional development program First3 and in various programs offered by NCFDD, and support through the Rice Center for Teaching.
Application Deadline
All applications received by September 9, 2024, will receive full consideration.
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply through Interfolio using this link:
Applications should include the following items:
- Cover letter describing your interest in the position as well as how diversity, equity, and inclusion inform your teaching, mentorship, and professional activities
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement (1-2 pages) that includes a discussion of how you would include undergraduate students in your research program
- Teaching statement (1-2 pages) that includes a brief description of how you would teach an interdisciplinary Introduction to Environmental Studies course; brief descriptions of two other courses you might design if appointed; and how you would teach and help to recruit a diverse student body
- Writing sample (one article or equivalent)
- Contact information for three references; letters of recommendation will be requested as the search progresses
Please address any questions to the search chair, Professor Laura J. Martin, at [email protected].
All offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a background check. Further information is available here:
Williams College is a liberal arts institution located in the Berkshire Hills of western Massachusetts. The college has built its reputation on outstanding teaching and scholarship and on the academic excellence of its approximately 2,000 students. Please visit the Williams College website (
Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Williams College is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn and thrive.