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.
