Education and Outreach

Virginia Tech Department of Geosciences Faculty Position in Paleobiology and Geobiology

By Keith Cowing
December 16, 2012

Application Deadline: December 21, 2012

The College of Science at Virginia Tech, in support of the university’s strategic plan, is expanding its research presence in Energy and the Environment through interdisciplinary faculty hires across departments (for further information, visit www.science.vt.edu under faculty openings). As part of this initiative, the Department of Geosciences (www.geos.vt.edu) anticipates a tenure-track opening in Paleobiology and Geobiology, to start in Fall 2013 at our Blacksburg, VA Campus. The department is an international leader in many areas of Geosciences research, with six new members added to its faculty in the last two years. For the new position, the successful candidate needs to have outstanding research/teaching experience that explores the paleontological record using observational, experimental, and quantitative methods to reconstruct the co-evolutionary history of the biosphere and Earth’s surface environment at various spatial and temporal scales. Appointment at the assistant professor level is anticipated.

The successful candidate will be expected to establish a vigorous research program, teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate levels, continue development of scholarly activities and professional capabilities, and participate in department, college, and university governance. Occasional travel to attend professional conferences is required. Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree in Geosciences or a related discipline at the time of appointment, have demonstrated capability/promise to develop an active research program, and pass a criminal background check. Preference will be given to candidates whose research areas complement existing strengths in the department.

Questions regarding the new position can be directed to Search Committee chair Dr. Shuhai Xiao ([email protected]). To receive full consideration, applications must be submitted online (http://www.jobs.vt.edu; reference posting #0122338) by December 21, 2012, and should include a cover letter, resume, research statement, teaching statement, and contact information of at least four referees. Salary will be commensurate with rank and experience. Virginia Tech is an EO/AA university, and offers a wide range of networking and development opportunities to women and minorities in science and engineering. Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify Mrs. Ellen Mathena at 540-231-6894, or call TTY 1-800-828-1120.

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