Assistant Professor of Animal Ecology University of Alaska Fairbanks · Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks, AK Full Time Education Posted 08/25/2026

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) seeks a tenure-track Assistant Professor to join the Institute of Arctic Biology (IAB) and College of Natural Science and Mathematics (CNSM) with expertise in animal ecology. This is a 9-month (full-time) tenure-track faculty position with a 3-month appointment extension supported by external funding (if available). The position duties will consist of 40% teaching, 50% research and 10% service.

This position will initially teach two courses per year in the Department of Biology and Wildlife, build and sustain a ongoing, externally-funded research program through the Institute of Arctic Biology involving mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, and provide service to the university, profession, and general public. We also welcome applicants whose research will benefit from and complement our major facilities and programs, including the Bonanza Creek (Boreal) Long-Term Ecological Research Program, Toolik Field Station, the Large Animal Research Station (LARS), and/or the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit.

To thrive in this role, the successful candidate must have the expertise and motivation to build an externally-funded research program focused on animal ecology. The candidate's research must address Alaska's needs and priorities. The candidate must have the ability to effectively mentor students in research. Successful candidates must have innovative ideas for advancing knowledge in animal ecology or a closely related field, excellent oral and written communication, skills in student engagement, pedagogical proficiency, and the ability to design and teach courses in person, field-based, and distance asynchronous and synchronous online modalities.

They must possess the ability to build collaborations with diverse interest groups. The integration of Indigenous perspectives into teaching and research is highly desirable. Individuals who are self-disciplined, student-centered, and demonstrate excellence through teaching, research, collaboration, adaptability, and creativity will flourish in this position.

Ph.D.
* in biology with emphasis on animal ecology, at least two semesters of teaching experience as course instructor or teaching assistant, experience with mentorship (supervisor, advisor, committee member) of at least one undergraduate or graduate student, lead author of at least three peer-reviewed publications, AND recipient of at least one externally funded grant, scholarship, or fellowship.

* Applications will be accepted if candidates have successfully defended their Ph.D. dissertation by Final date to receive applications. Awarded Ph.D. is required prior to start date.
Prior postdoctoral experience is preferred, but not required