Mendel Science Post-Doctoral Fellow

Mendel Science Experience Post-Doctoral Fellow

Villanova University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences invites applications for a Mendel Science Experience Post-doctoral Fellow within the Department of Geography & the Environment. The Fellows program is designed to enhance the College’s teaching of science to non-science majors through the Mendel Science Experience program and to foster the professional development of recent Ph.D. recipients on a career path leading to faculty positions.

The appointment is for a 12‑month term, renewable up to a total of three years at the University’s sole discretion, beginning in August 2026. A modest research/travel stipend and relocation expenses are available.

• Assist faculty in the Department of Geography and the Environment by co‑teaching a Mendel Science Experience lecture and laboratory course on climate change in the fall of 2026 and a upper‑level laboratory course on watershed biogeochemistry in the spring of 2027.
• Co‑design a new Mendel Science Experience course on watershed science and sustainability in 2026 and teach it in the fall of 2027.
• Conduct research on watershed biogeochemistry in the laboratory of Dr. Steven Goldsmith, with potential focus areas including road salts, microplastics/litter, and natural gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale.
• Mentor undergraduate research students.
• Participate as a member of the Department’s faculty, attend faculty meetings, receive annual evaluations, and engage in professional development activities.

• Ph.D. completed before the appointment starts.
• Background in biology, geology, environmental science, or related fields.
• Research interests in watershed biogeochemistry, limnology, ecohydrology, or hydrology.
• Experience with statistical and/or GIS analysis is desirable.

• Curriculum vitae
• Transcripts of all graduate work
• Cover letter that includes a statement of career goals and research interests
• Teaching statement
• Statement on the applicant’s potential contribution to the Department’s and University’s mission, including enduring commitments
• Names and contact information of three professional references (references will be contacted via email to submit confidential letters of recommendation)

Applications will be reviewed by January 15, 2026.

• Position Title:
  
  Mendel Science Experience Post‑Doctoral Fellow
• Position Type:
  Faculty
• Location:
  
  Villanova, PA
• Recruitment Type:
  Internal/External
• Work Schedule:
  
  Full‑time, 12‑month appointment
• Department: 181 – Geography and the Environment
• Salary:
  Competitive (salary band available upon request)

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal‑opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect, and can contribute to the University’s mission and values.