Assistant Professor in Conservation Science (Tenure-Track)

Department: College of Science

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category: Instructional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Works with Minors Check: Yes

About the Department:

The Department of Environmental Science and Policy (ESP) spans the domain of natural and social sciences and is focused on understanding and implementing science and public policy to address and solve complex environmental issues that challenge the integrity and sustainability of global systems. ESP offers BS, MS, and PhD programs in these areas.

George Mason University College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing inclusive excellence and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation throughout our STEM community. At Mason Science, our values include cultivating an organizational culture that promotes belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that varied opinions, cultures, and perspectives are what provides vibrancy, innovation, and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing cultural responsiveness in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.

About the Position:

The Assistant Professor in Conservation Science will strengthen departmental expertise in applied and theoretical conservation science and policy, with preference to the following focal areas: terrestrial wildlife, spatial ecology of land-use change, One Health, urban ecology, or sustainable agriculture. Evidence of research and teaching experience is expected. Particularly desirable is the potential for collaboration with the Smithsonian Mason School of Conservation and the Institute for a Sustainable Earth; contribute to George Mason University’s commitment to transdisciplinary and cross-departmental research; and engagement with policymakers to support and bring about change that improves environmental outcomes and sustainably address human needs in our region and beyond. The position will establish an extramurally funded research program whose results are published in the peer-reviewed literature, and to provide mentorship to graduate and undergraduate students. The expected regular teaching responsibility for this position is two courses per semester. Service activities within ESP, the College of Science, and beyond are also expected.

Responsibilities:

• 40% - Teaching
• 40% - Research
• 20% - Service to the Department, College, and University

Required Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a Ph.D. in conservation science or related field prior to the first day of the appointment;
• An established record of scholarly activity demonstrated by publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals;
• Proven potential to establish an independent, extramurally funded research program;
• Commitment to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students;
• Effective interpersonal communication skills; and
• Ability to collaborate with others in research, teaching, and outreach.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Post Doctoral experience;
• Demonstrated experience in developing successful externally-funded research collaborations;
• Successful teaching record;
• Interdisciplinary and/or international experience;
• Practical experience in industry or government service; and
• Demonstrated successful teamwork in a collaborative and transdisciplinary environment.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Assistant Professor in Conservation Science (Tenure-Track) at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter, CV, Philosophy of Teaching, and Research Statement.

Posting Open Date:  November 20, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by:  January 4, 2026

Open Until Filled:  Yes