Assistant Professor of Geological Oceanography - College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences

Assistant Professor of Geological Oceanography - College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences

University of Alaska Fairbanks

The Oceanography Department of the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences (CFOS) at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) seeks applications from exceptional candidates for a tenure-track faculty position in Geological Oceanography. This position comes with 9‑month annual support from the State of Alaska. This appointment will be at the rank of Assistant Professor, located in Fairbanks, Alaska.

The Oceanography Department works globally with emphasis on understanding the Arctic and North Pacific Oceans and their bordering seas. We invite applicants who will further the mission of the Department and College by complementing our existing research programs and course offerings. Applications are especially encouraged from sea‑going scientists. All geological oceanographers are encouraged to apply; we are particularly interested in those with expertise in active processes of geochemistry, sediment dynamics, or related fields.

UAF is Alaska’s research university, America’s Arctic university and a world leader in both Arctic and climate‑change research. The successful applicant will enjoy opportunities for collaboration across CFOS and UAF’s many world‑class, high‑latitude research programs including advanced analytical facilities. Particularly relevant to this position is the ice‑capable, Global‑Class UNOLS ship R/V Sikuliaq, which is home‑ported in Seward, AK and operated by CFOS.

Faculty in the Oceanography Department are active users of Sikuliaq.

To thrive in this role, candidates must have the ability to teach the graduate core course in Geological Oceanography and courses for the graduate and undergraduate academic programs. They must also have the ability to develop a robust externally‑funded research program and demonstrate a strong research and publication record appropriate to a candidate’s experience and date of degree. Candidates will be expected to undertake public and University service activities.

Experience in post‑doctoral research, teaching, and effectively mentoring a diverse population of graduate and undergraduate students are all highly desirable.

• Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Geological Oceanography, Geology, or a closely related discipline.
• Applicants must be able to establish a sea‑going research program.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
• An unrestricted Alaska driver’s license and clean driving record in compliance with UA Safe Driving criteria is required.

This position is located in Fairbanks, AK on the Troth Yedda’ campus. It is a full‑time (9 month), FLSA exempt, tripartite tenure‑track faculty position with a competitive salary (starting pay is DOE) and benefits. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage.

• Interested applicants must submit a brief cover letter, statements of interest and qualifications in both research and teaching (1–2 pages each), a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references (address, email and phone number).
• Review of applications will begin on March 20, 2026. Applications must be received no later than March 19, 2026 by 11:55 PM Alaska Standard Time to ensure full consideration. This position is open until filled.

If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Dr. Geoff Wheat, Chair of the Search Committee, at cgwheat.

The University of Alaska (UA) is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non‑discrimination against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

The University of Alaska (UA) reserves the right to require employees to work on‑site at the UA facilities. Hybrid and remote work may be approved for employees based in Alaska at the University's discretion. Remote work for employees based outside the State of Alaska may be approved only in exceptional circumstances or when required by the position's job duties.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the background check.

Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.

All employees at the University of Alaska are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism when conducting or engaged in university business.

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