Professor, Marine Mammal Science

Description

We invite applications for an open-rank tenure-track position in Marine Mammal Science beginning in August 2026. We seek a collaborative colleague whose expertise falls in one of two areas:

1. Research methods data science or statistics; or
2. Marine mammal science broadly defined.

The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting and expanding our interdisciplinary research-intensive two-year Masters program.

Examples of Duties

Our current faculty are leaders in dolphin cognition and echolocation manatee acoustics and conservation and pinniped cognition and marine mammal neurobiology. We are seeking a fourth faculty member whose expertise complements and broadens these strengths particularly in spatial ecology GIS genetics or other areas that expand our research portfolio. Experience or strong interest in cross-disciplinary data analysis or advanced quantitative methods is especially welcome though not required.

The new faculty member will mentor 46 graduate students annually teach core courses and electives aligned with their expertise and contribute to our strong culture of individualized mentorship and hands-on research training. There are no undergraduate teaching requirements; however faculty may engage with undergraduates through collaborative research and occasional cross-listed courses.

Research productivity is central to this position. We welcome applicants at any career stage who bring either an emerging or well-established research agenda that complements or enhances our existing strengths.

The Marine Mammal Science program is housed in a restored historic mansion estate on Sarasota Bay separate from the main campus with two dedicated buildings and direct dock access. These facilities foster focused scholarship and close faculty-student collaboration. Florida offers exceptional opportunities for marine mammal research across springs estuaries and Gulf ecosystems with access to diverse species including manatees (in both wild and rehabilitation contexts) the long-studied Sarasota Bay bottlenose dolphin community Gulf cetaceans and pinnipeds through regional partnerships. The program maintains strong regional collaborations and long-term data resources including the Sarasota Bay Listening Network creating rich opportunities for integrative and applied research.

We welcome applicants who are excited to help build and shape a dynamic graduate program within a collegial energetic academic community committed to scientific excellence and student success.

Application review begins March 31 2026 and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

About New College

New College is driven by a mission to be the best liberal arts college in America. New College the nationally recognized honors college of the State University System of Florida is an innovative liberal arts institution where students learn how to think not what to think.

Founded in 1960 the College has garnered national acclaim for its rigorous academics as students chart their own academic course with the assistance of faculty advisors and written assessments are given instead of letter grades. Conducting research is an important part of the undergraduate curriculum at New College with each student having to complete a senior thesis to graduate.

The New College campus sits on the scenic Sarasota Bay and directly adjacent to one of the fastest-growing airports in the nation. The region consistently ranks among the best for quality of life featuring world-famous beaches historic architecture and iconic fine & performing arts institutions.

How to apply

Interested candidates should apply online. A complete application includes:

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vita

3. Description of proposed research including how you will support graduate students in their research pursuits

4. Statement of teaching philosophy

5. Graduate transcript (may be unofficial for initial application)

6. Names and contact information for three references (letters will be solicited for finalists)

According to Florida law applications and meetings regarding applications are open to the public upon request. Applicants who need accommodations to participate in the selection process should notify the search committee 48 hours in advance of a meeting. Contact HR at with any questions about the application process or to request accommodations.

Minimum Qualifications

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in a field related to marine mammal science/data science by the time of hiring with a demonstrated record of research excellence. Ideal candidates will have a strong track record in teaching a commitment to student mentorship and exceptional communication and collaboration skills.

All candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring immigration sponsorship including but not limited to non-immigrant visas such as H1B STEM or F1 now and in the future.

New College of Florida (NCF) is an equal opportunity employer and educational provider committed to a policy of non-discrimination for any member of the NCF community on the basis of race creed color sex religion national origin age disability genetic information veterans status marital status or any other legally protected group status. This policy applies to faculty staff students volunteers visitors applicants and contractors in a manner consistent with applicable laws regulations ordinances orders and University policies procedures and processes.

Required Experience:

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