Assistant Professor in Marine Geology & Geophysics

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please apply through the USM Cornerstone portal and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement (up to 3 pages), teaching philosophy statement (up to 2 pages), and contact information for three professional references. The application deadline is January 31, 2027. The expected salary for the nine-month period ranges from $68,000 to $71,000, with the potential for additional summer salary through grant-funded projects. For questions or additional information about the position, please contact the search committee chair at [email protected]. Any offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The School of Ocean Science and Engineering seeks a full-time (nine-month) tenure-track Assistant Professor in Marine Geology & Geophysics to advance research and teaching in geological oceanography, hydrographic science, and seafloor science. The successful candidate will develop an externally funded research program in areas such as marine sediment properties and transport, seafloor mapping and exploration, and/or marine acoustic methods. The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching, mentor students in Marine Science and Hydrography, and collaborate with faculty and the Hydrographic Science Research Center. The university’s autonomous surface and underwater vehicles, ROVs, acoustic systems, and sediment characterization instruments offer opportunities for field research and interdisciplinary work. This position is based at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, offering close proximity to and opportunities for collaboration with federal agencies, including NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center, the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command and its subordinate commands, and the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Establish an independent research program in marine geology and geophysics, publish scholarly work, and seek external support.

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in areas appropriate to the candidate's expertise and departmental needs, including possible contributions to ocean acoustics, hydrographic science, and seafloor science.

• Mentor and supervise graduate research, including students in Marine Science and Hydrography.

• Develop interdisciplinary collaborations within the School, the Hydrographic Science Research Center, and external research communities.

• Contribute to field programs, data collection and analysis, and responsible use of relevant research facilities and instruments as appropriate to the research program.

• Participate in service to the School, University, and profession, and perform other duties as assigned.