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Assistant Professor Geophysics Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Professor Geophysics information

What does an assistant professor of geophysics do?

An Assistant Professor of Geophysics is an early-career academic who teaches university courses, conducts research, and publishes findings in the field of geophysics. Their responsibilities include developing and delivering lectures, advising students, supervising research projects, and seeking funding through grants. They often specialize in areas such as seismology, geodynamics, or environmental geophysics, and contribute to advancing scientific understanding of Earth's physical processes. Additionally, they may participate in departmental service and collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant professor of geophysics in balancing research and teaching responsibilities?

Assistant Professors of Geophysics often face the challenge of balancing their time between conducting research, publishing findings, and fulfilling teaching obligations such as preparing lectures, grading, and mentoring students. Managing grant applications and administrative duties can also add to the workload. Developing efficient time-management strategies and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help new professors navigate these demands. Collaboration with other faculty members and integrating research topics into coursework are practical ways to align teaching and research priorities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of geophysics, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Geophysics, you typically need a PhD in geophysics or a related field, along with a strong record of research and teaching experience. Technical proficiency with geophysical modeling software, data analysis tools, and GIS platforms is often required, as well as familiarity with publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Outstanding communication, mentorship, and collaboration skills are crucial for engaging students and contributing to academic teams. These abilities ensure effective knowledge transfer, impactful research, and strong academic contributions within the university environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Geophysics vs Assistant Professor Earth Science?

AspectAssistant Professor GeophysicsAssistant Professor Earth Science
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Geophysics or related fieldPh.D. in Earth Science or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch universities, labs, fieldwork in geophysical methodsResearch universities, labs, fieldwork in earth systems
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, geophysical research centersUniversities, earth science research institutes
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for specialization in geophysical methodsBroader earth science focus, less specialized

Assistant Professor Geophysics typically requires specialized training in geophysical techniques and focuses on research and teaching in geophysical methods. In contrast, Assistant Professor Earth Science covers a broader range of earth systems, with a wider scope in research and teaching. Both roles are common in academic settings but differ in specialization and focus areas.

Are assistant professor geophysics jobs in demand?

Assistant professor geophysics positions are generally in demand in academic and research institutions due to ongoing needs for expertise in earth sciences, environmental studies, and related fields. Employment opportunities depend on research funding, institutional priorities, and regional needs, with a preference for candidates with strong research backgrounds and teaching experience.

Can you work remotely in geophysics?

Assistant Professors in Geophysics may have opportunities for remote work, especially for tasks such as data analysis, modeling, and writing. However, fieldwork, laboratory work, and in-person teaching typically require physical presence. The availability of remote work depends on the institution's policies and the specific responsibilities of the role.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Assistant Professor Geophysics jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Assistant Professor Geophysics job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Geophysics job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Research Assistant/Research Associate Professor

University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago


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Job description

TheUniversity of Texas Institute for Geophysics (UTIG) seeks to hire multiple research faculty at the Research Assistant or Research Associate Professor rank in the broadly defined field of Coastal Science, including the interconnectedfields of Physical Oceanography and Weather and Climate Extremes. Areas of expertise may include, but are not limited to: beach processes, estuarine dynamics, ice-ocean interactions, ocean circulation, paleoceanography, paleotempestology, permafrost degradation, sea level change, and tropical cyclones))

We seek colleagues to add to our existing strengths in field-based, observational, and computational geoscience. Successful candidates will contribute to the vibrant research community at UTIG through engagement with colleagues within and beyond the Institute, and through the development of a vigorous, internationally recognized, and externally funded research program that complements UTIG’s research foci. Research Assistant and Research Associate Professors at UTIG typically receive six months of institutional salary support annually, with the rest obtained from externally-funded research projects; institutional support typically increases to up to eight months for research faculty upon establishing a record of leadership of large projects or programs, as is expected for promotion to Research Professor.

For full consideration, applications should be submitted online by November 20, 2026. For additional information about the application process, please contact Rosalind Gamble (rgamble@ig.utexas.edu ). For additional information about the position, please contact the search committee chair: Chris Lowery (cmlowery@utexas.edu ).

Qualifications

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. at the time of appointment. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with nontraditional research backgrounds and those whose experiences can contribute to a broad range of perspectives in higher education and research. We encourage late stage PhD students, postdocs, and early career scientists to apply.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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Jackson School of Geosciences

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