Visiting Assistant Professor of Geology and Environmental Science

Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA is seeking to hire a 1-year Visiting Assistant Professor who will teach courses in the geology and environmental science undergraduate programs. The area of specialty is open, but the expected teaching duties for this full-time position will be 24 credits/year and may include courses such as Earth Materials, Structural Geology, Energy & Environmental Justice, Hydrogeology, Sedimentation & Stratigraphy, and GIS. Our class sizes are small and field-based learning is encouraged and supported. The anticipated start date for this position is August 15 th , 2026. Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD, but candidates who are ABD or have an MS degree in an appropriate area of study will also be considered. Previous experience teaching and working with diverse student populations is a plus.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

Duties include teaching introductory and upper-division geology and environmental science undergraduate courses. In addition to pursuing teaching excellence, faculty are expected to engage in academic advising and service to the department, school, and university.

QUALIFICATIONS

• At a minimum, the candidate will have a Masters Degree in Geology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field. A Ph.D. is preferred and required for a tenure-track position. ABD candidates may be considered with the expectation of degree completion within one year of hire.
• Experience with laboratory instruction, course development, and using innovative, student-centered pedagogies.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
• Skills in using educational technology and modern instructional techniques.
• Desire to mentor undergraduate students in professional development. Additional Preferences for Consideration
• Experience teaching both geology and environmental science courses.
• Experience in interdisciplinary teaching and/or research, especially in alignment with a liberal arts curriculum.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants are asked to submit the following in a single PDF

Cover Letter:

Describe how your qualifications align with the position's requirements.

Curriculum Vitae:

Include education, teaching experience, research achievements, and service contributions.

Teaching Statement:

Detail your teaching philosophy and experience with student-centered pedagogies.

References:

Provide contact information for 3-5 professional references.

Submit to:

Human Resources Mercyhurst University 501 East 38th Street Erie, PA 16546 HRinfor@mercyhurst.edu Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates must be currently eligible to work in the United States.