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Environmental Science Professor information

What does an environmental science professor do?

An Environmental Science Professor teaches courses related to environmental science at a college or university. They conduct research on topics such as ecology, conservation, pollution, or climate change, and publish their findings. Professors also mentor students, develop curriculum, and may participate in community outreach or policy advising. Their work helps advance knowledge and solutions to environmental challenges.

What does an environmental science professor do?

An environmental science professor instructs college students on environmental science topics. As an environmental science professor, you may lecture on such subjects as nature, renewable resources, and climate change. Your responsibilities include teaching, conducting regularly scheduled office hours, and preparing and grading exams. Other duties include supervising graduate students, overseeing teaching assistants, and participating in university functions. Many environmental science professors also conduct research projects while they teach. You may write grants to support your research, conduct environmental field studies, and regularly publish your research findings. Some environmental science professors also teach online courses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental science professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Science Professor, you generally need an advanced degree (Ph.D.) in environmental science or a related field, along with a strong background in research and teaching. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory equipment, and learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Outstanding communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help professors engage students and foster a collaborative academic environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective education, advancing research, and preparing students for careers in environmental science.

What opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration can an environmental science professor expect in an academic setting?

Environmental Science Professors often engage in interdisciplinary collaboration with colleagues from departments such as biology, chemistry, engineering, and public policy. These partnerships can lead to joint research projects, co-authored publications, and the development of innovative courses that address complex environmental issues from multiple perspectives. Collaboration is typically encouraged by universities to enhance research impact and secure external funding. Professors may also work with local government agencies or industry partners to apply academic findings to real-world problems, expanding their professional network and broadening the scope of their work.
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What are popular job titles related to Environmental Science Professor jobs in TN?

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Environmental Science Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Science Professor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Professor of Plant Ecology, Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
See more jobs at The University of Tennessee-Chattanoogaexternal

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
The Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science (BGE) at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) in the College of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Plant Ecology beginning August 1, 2027. We seek candidates with research and teaching focused in any area of plant ecology.
Qualifications
Requirements for the position include:
  • Ph.D. focused in plant ecology, botany, plant conservation, or related field [individuals who are all but dissertation (ABD) will be considered; however, the degree must be awarded prior to the start date;
  • Ability to teach from the freshman undergraduate level through the Master's level in ecology, plant ecology (lecture and laboratory), plant conservation, and general botany, as well as undergraduate courses in introductory biology, environmental science, and courses in areas of specialization;
  • Ability to establish an independent research program in plant ecology or plant conservation involving undergraduate and graduate students;
  • Ability to work collegially with students, fellow faculty, staff, and community partners; and
  • Ability to utilize high-impact practices in teaching and student engagement from the undergraduate to the graduate level

The successful candidate's application will also provide evidence of the following preferred qualifications:
  • Research, teaching, and mentoring experience in field-based plant ecology, plant conservation, plant (eco-)physiology, habitat or species restoration, biodiversity conservation, and potentially incorporate other expertise areas, e.g., remote sensing and GIS (Geographic Information Systems), conservation/education outreach, molecular methods, or statistical programming languages (e.g. R, Python);
  • Contribute to UTC's undergraduate and graduate biology, geology, and environmental science students through research and teaching focused on contemporary environmental challenges;
  • Creatively seek a wide range of external funding opportunities to support independent research or UTC undergraduate and graduate students in the candidate's field; and
  • Provide university, community, and professional service, including collaborations with community partners.

Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2026. To be considered for the position, all applications must include all the following:
  • A cover letter;
  • A statement of research experience and vision, providing evidence of position requirements;
  • A statement of teaching experience and philosophy, providing evidence of position requirements;
  • A curriculum vitae;
  • All unofficial transcripts; and
  • A list of names, titles, and email addresses for three (3) references for confidential letters of recommendation to be requested at later stages in the search process. At least one reference must be able to comment on teaching ability.

Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Gretchen Potts, BGE Department Head, Gretchen-Potts@utc.edu. Applications must be submitted electronically through the UTC Faculty Career Site.
BGE has 35 full-time faculty with more than 850 majors distributed between BS Biology, BS Geology, BS Environmental Science, and MS Environmental Science degrees. BGE has an interdisciplinary MS graduate program with 30-40 students per year.
UTC is in the heart of Tennessee's fourth-largest city, lies along the dam-controlled Tennessee River in the southern Appalachian fold-and-thrust belt, adjacent to the Cumberland Plateau and within view of the Blue Ridge. Its climate, geography, hydrology, and history contribute to its geologic complexities and rich biodiversity. UTC's proximity to numerous public and private natural areas within the biologically diverse southern Appalachian region provides exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary, field-based research involving undergraduate and graduate students. Raccoon Mountain Caverns, a 5.5-mile-long limestone cave located just a 15-minute drive from UTC's campus, was recently donated to UTC and BGE manages the caverns access and use for teaching and conducting research.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is the second-largest campus in the University of Tennessee System and serves a diverse student body of more than 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students through six academic colleges. Since its founding as Chattanooga University in 1886, UTC has established a reputation for excellence built on a unique blend of the private and public traditions of American higher education. Today, UTC brings a passion for excellence in all pursuits and is dedicated to making a difference in our community and in the lives of our students.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga proudly calls Chattanooga home-a city lauded by U.S. News and World Report, Money Magazine and Southern Living (to name a few!) for its unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Nestled between scenic Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee River, Chattanooga offers breathtaking natural beauty, lively city amenities and a small-town feel.
Our city has it all, with historic cultural institutions like the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, iconic attractions like Rock City and Ruby Falls, opportunities for epic outdoor adventures, and an eclectic contemporary art, music, and food scene.
Chattanooga's robust economy fosters an environment where tech start-ups thrive alongside established industries and corporations. It's where innovation meets tradition, creating endless opportunities for growth and success.
UTC embodies Chattanooga's dynamic spirit, serving as one of the city's most vital institutions where progressive transformation and community thrive. UTC is where Chattanooga goes to build the future.

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