Job Details

Assistant Professor, Earth Surface Processes, Geosciences (3572)

Pocatello - Main

Priority Date: October 22, 2025

Institution Information

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our university community!

Job Description

Idaho State University (ISU)'s Department of Geosciences seeks applications for a nine-month, full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Earth Surface Processes, beginning in Fall 2026. For this balanced teaching and research position, we seek a collaborative scientist with demonstrated expertise in Earth surface processes, Quaternary landscape evolution, natural hazards, spatial modeling of lidar or InSAR data, and/or field and data science skills applied to Earth surface processes. The ability to develop scientific collaborations with the nearby Idaho National Laboratory is also advantageous.

The successful candidate is expected to establish a vibrant, externally funded research program, mentor research trainees, develop and teach both undergraduate and graduate courses, and professionally serve the ISU community. The successful applicant will also be encouraged to participate in our nationally recognized summer Field Geology course in central Idaho.

Key Responsibilities

Teach ~4 courses per year in undergraduate/graduate courses in Surface Processes and related courses in the Geosciences curriculum. Courses are usually offered in person and often include hands-on laboratory exercises or field trips.

Conduct innovative research in Earth surface processes and associated fields leading to publications in reputable journals and presentations at conferences.

Secure external funding to support research activities and trainees, and advise and mentor those trainees, including graduate students.

Engage in professional service activities at multiple levels at ISU and in the community.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D in Geosciences or a closely related field with a specialization in Earth surface processes. A.B.D. will be considered, successful Ph.D. defense and/or approved dissertation required before start date in Aug 2026.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated potential to teach and conduct research in Earth surface processes or closely related areas.

Strong potential to attract external funding for research from public and private entities.

Evidence of collegiality to support a strong sense of community.

Experience with collaborative research, incorporating innovative analytical, technological, or quantitative techniques, including spatial analysis/modeling, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and/or other data science tools.

Interest in and willingness to participate in our annual summer Field Geology course.

Experience mentoring trainees.

Additional Information

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, statements of teaching and research interests addressing the minimum and preferred qualifications (including potential collaborations), and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before October 22, 2025. Salary will be between $70,000 and $80,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.