The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications for a faculty position in Energy Transition Geoscience. The position is for a full time, 9-month, tenure-line appointment at the Assistant Professor level that will begin on 1 August 2025.
The successful candidate is expected to develop a vigorous, externally funded research and instruction program in the broad field of energy transition geoscience focused on the geologic and/or geochemical processes associated with the decarbonization of energy systems. Candidates with research interests in, but not limited to, studies in the geology of geothermal resources, subsurface energy storage, carbon capture and storage, underground hydrogen storage, mineral carbonation, and enhanced rock weathering are encouraged to apply. The selected candidate will effectively teach courses about energy transition geoscience at all levels, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and perform rank-appropriate departmental and university service.
The position forms part of a strategic constellation of hires within the College of Arts and Sciences focused on Societal Resilience to Climate Change. There is also ample potential to develop collaborations within UTK, such as through the Institute for Climate and Community Resilience, and/or several energy-focused programs at the nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The Department has complementary and expanding expertise in geology and environmental research with a range of new applicable analytical facilities.
Knoxville is in the foothills of the Smoky and Blue Ridge mountains, outstanding natural teaching laboratories and recreation destinations. In addition to mountains, East Tennessee has abundant inland waterways and pristine state and national parks. Knoxville is a thriving city filled with indoor and outdoor entertainment venues, restaurants, shops, and cultural offerings. The city has a blend of convenient urban and rural living settings.
Qualifications. Required: Applicants must hold a Ph.D. (or equivalent) degree in geoscience or a related discipline by the time of appointment. Only applications from candidates who will have completed their Ph.D. by the appointment date will be considered. Preferred: Candidates must demonstrate the potential for excellence in research through publications and/or competitive support (e.g., grants, fellowships, contracts), and for potential excellence in teaching. UTK is a land-grant university that values engaged forms of research/scholarship/creative activity, teaching and service. We consider evidence of these commitments in the records of applicants.
Application Instructions. To apply, please submit: (1) cover letter articulating the applicant’s interest in and qualifications for this position, (2) full curriculum vitae, (3) no more than two-page statement that describes research experience, interests, and plans, (4) no more than two-page statement that describes teaching experience, interests, and plans, and (5) names and contact information for at least three professional references via apply.interfolio.com/154634. In addition to addressing qualifications for the position, candidates may describe how they would help promote students’ access to and inclusion in their teaching and research/scholarship/creative activities. Formal review of Applications will begin on 1 November 2024 and remain open until filled. Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Chris Fedo (cfedo@utk.edu).
