Assistant Professor - Water Science - School of Geosciences

The School of Geosciences (SGS) at the University of South Florida Tampa campus seeks to fill a 9-month, full-time and tenure-earning, Assistant Professor position with a specialization in Water Science. Candidates with a focus on water quality in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East are especially encouraged to apply, though any specialty will be considered. Salary is negotiable. The start date of this position is August 7, 2026. 

The successful candidate will be expected to develop an externally funded research program, mentor graduate students, and teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in Environmental Science and Policy (ESP). The successful candidate’s area of specialty will complement existing School strengths in ESP, Geography, and Geology, such as wetland environments, water policy and management, hydrology, and global conservation. 

Minimum Qualifications: Doctoral degree from an accredited institution in Environmental Science or related field with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Applications from individuals who are ABD will be accepted, but the degree must be conferred by appointment start date. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant Professor.

Preferred Qualifications: Preference will be given to applicants whose research and teaching incorporates the human-environmental nexus of water science. 

 

Application Process-

When applying, please upload the following materials in a single PDF: 

• Cover letter briefly describing research and teaching interests
• CV
• Detailed research statement
• Contact information for three (3) professional references

The deadline for applications is November 30, 2025. 

Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Philip van Beynen at vanbeyne@usf.edu 

 

Conclusion of this search is subject to final budget approval. According to Florida Law, applications and meetings regarding them are open to the public. USF is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access institution. For disability accommodations, contact Lori VanHelden at (813-974-0640 / lorivanhelden@usf.edu), a minimum of five working days in advance. This position is subject to Foreign Influence Screening. House Bill 7017 (“HB 7017”) 

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with