Extension Assistant Professor - Biodiversity Conservation

Extension Assistant Professor – Biodiversity Conservation

Join the Department of Environmental Conservation at the University of Massachusetts Amherst as a full‑time Extension faculty member at the rank of Extension Assistant Professor. The successful candidate will develop an integrated research and extension program in Biodiversity Conservation, integrating academic research with educational programs, resources, tools, and technology to meet the needs of stakeholders, including landowners, municipal officials, community leaders, conservation organizations, government agencies, natural resource professionals, and policymakers.

The appointment is a 12‑month, non‑tenure track position with an anticipated balance of 30% teaching, 20% research, and 50% extension and service. Applicants must hold an earned M.S. or Ph.D. in ecology, natural resources conservation, environmental science, or a related field.

• Develop an integrated research and extension program in Biodiversity Conservation.
• Conduct academic research that is integrated with educational programs, resources, tools, and technologies meeting stakeholder needs.
• Teach one course per semester in wetlands and/or wildlife ecology and conservation.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Contribute to the department, college, university, and profession through service.

• Collaborate to promote teamwork, equality, and inclusiveness.
• Partner with colleagues within the CNS community and across campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

• Earned M.S. or Ph.D. in ecology, natural resources conservation, environmental science, or related field by the date of hire.
• Direct experience in biodiversity conservation.
• Experience in extension, public education, community engagement, and/or outreach.
• Ability to teach courses in wetlands ecology and/or wildlife conservation.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.

• Knowledge and experience that span diverse species and ecosystems.
• Experience in applied research.
• Demonstrated ability to secure extramural funding to support extension and research programs.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with external partners including environmental organizations, state and federal agencies, natural resource professionals, conservation commissions, regional planning agencies, and environmental consultants.
• Demonstrated potential for effective collaboration with faculty and staff within the Department of Environmental Conservation, UMass Extension, and other UMass Amherst departments and centers.

• Review of applicants will begin February 1, 2026 and continue until the ideal candidate is identified.
• Expected start date is September 1, 2026.

• Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Expected salary range: $79,350 – $116,164. The specific pay will be determined by the university based on all relevant factors and the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors.

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of integrated extension‑research interests (max. two pages)
• Statement of teaching philosophy and interests (max. two pages)
• Contact information for three references

Questions can be directed to the search committee chair, Paul Catanzaro (paulcat).

Candidates may be invited to describe how their work aligns with the university’s values and strategic goals. These reflections are not used to exclude candidates but provide insight into potential contributions to inclusive academic environments.

UMass Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti‑discrimination laws.