Tenure-Track Professor in Biodiversity, Conservation, or Land Surface Processes at Harvard University – United States

Summary

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences seeks a tenure‑track professor to join the Departments of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, and Human Evolutionary Biology. The role involves establishing an independent research program focused on biodiversity, conservation, or land surface processes, employing remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and other advanced methods. The appointment begins on July 1, 2027, and is a full‑time, untenured position. The successful candidate will be expected to secure external funding, conduct high‑quality research, publish, teach undergraduate and graduate courses, develop new curricula, and mentor students and postdoctoral researchers. The position emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and contributions to Harvard’s mission of inclusive, cutting‑edge scholarship.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences; Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology; Department of Human Evolutionary Biology
Position Type	Full-Time, Tenure-Track Faculty Position (Untenured at Time of Appointment)
Discipline	Earth and Planetary Sciences; Organismic and Evolutionary Biology; Human Evolutionary Biology
Research Area	Biodiversity, Conservation, Land Surface Processes

About the Project

The position supports innovative research that investigates biodiversity patterns, conservation strategies, or land surface dynamics using satellite imagery, machine learning, genomics, field surveys, and computational modeling to address environmental challenges such as climate change and ecosystem degradation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and establish an independent research program
• Secure external research funding
• Conduct high‑quality research and publish findings
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses
• Develop new interdisciplinary courses
• Mentor postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and undergraduates
• Participate in departmental and university service

Required Skills

• Remote sensing and satellite data analysis
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications
• Advanced analytical techniques (genomics, geochemistry)
• Field research methods and ecological sampling
• Computational modeling and GIS
• Interdisciplinary collaboration

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a strong record of interdisciplinary research in biodiversity, conservation, or land surface processes, who are proficient in remote sensing, AI, and advanced analytical techniques, and who demonstrate a commitment to teaching, mentoring, and securing external funding are encouraged to apply.

About the Employer

Harvard University, founded in 1636, is described as a world‑leading institution with a tradition of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The Faculty of Arts and Sciences comprises the College, the Graduate School, and numerous research centers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the appointment start?

July 1, 2027.

What type of position is offered?

Full‑time, tenure‑track faculty position (untenured at time of appointment).

Which departments are involved?

Earth and Planetary Sciences; Organismic and Evolutionary Biology; Human Evolutionary Biology.