We seek applicants who are dedicated to serving The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s student body as an Assistant Professor of the School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year. Located in the subtropical Rio Grande Valley near the Gulf of Mexico, UTRGV is positioned in a region highly susceptible to drought, predicted water shortages, and other extreme weather events, which significantly impact both agricultural and ecological systems. As of 2022, over 700,000 acres of the region’s land were dedicated to pasture and rangeland, accounting for approximately 48% of farmland use. The successful candidate will contribute to a rapidly expanding academic program focused on sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems. Collaboration with faculty tackling key agricultural and environmental issues, both locally and beyond, is expected. This includes interdisciplinary, mission-driven research with USDA agencies, farmers, and ranchers. Ample opportunities exist for partnerships in areas like soil and plant health, restoration ecology, and climate adaptation, particularly in addressing challenges posed by drought.

The successful candidate will be expected to: 1) teach undergraduate and graduate courses in rangeland management, covering topics such as range ecology, rangeland improvements and restoration practices, and rangeland planning and ranch management; 2) develop an active, field-based research program that engages both undergraduate and graduate students through mentorship and hands-on learning; and 3) seek and secure external funding to develop a robust research program centered on land management, climate change mitigation, adaptation, rangeland degradation, productivity, and livestock production. This program should address the challenges posed by frequent droughts and extreme weather events, offering solutions that promote sustainable rangeland productivity and enhance resilience.