Professor and Department Head, Sustainable Earth Systems Sciences

The School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) at The University of Texas (UT Dallas) seeks a visionary, collaborative leader to serve as the next Head of the Department of Sustainable Earth Systems Sciences (SESS). The department’s strengths span geology, geophysics, hydrology, geochemistry, biogeochemistry, atmospheric science, Earth and space imaging, and quantitative computational data analysis. The successful candidate will be a highly accomplished scholar and academic leader who will strengthen SESS’s mission of advancing the understanding of Earth and planetary sciences as interconnected, dynamic systems to inform sustainability, resilience, and stewardship of the planet. The research specialty is open, although preference will be given to candidates with expertise that can complement the department’s existing strengths.

Reporting to the Dean, the Department Head provides academic, administrative, financial, operational, and strategic leadership for the department; partners with the Dean and university leaders to grow the department’s research and educational impact; and helps develop a vibrant, people-centered academic culture that supports the success and professional development of faculty, staff, and students. The Department Head will play a key role in shaping the department’s next phase of growth and enhancing its impact in sustainable Earth and environmental science disciplines. They will develop, with input from stakeholders, consensus around a strategic vision and plan for the department that aligns with the strategic priorities of NSM and of UT Dallas. Likewise, the new Head will build connections to attract opportunities and resources from across the university, supporting a creative research environment, particularly in support of the development of our large cohort of early career faculty.

This position will commence in Fall 2027 and will provide a competitive compensation package that includes a nine-month salary plus a Department Head supplement and the potential for an Endowed Chair supplement, with a reduced teaching workload.

Priority will be given to completed applications received by January 8, 2027 . The search will remain open until the position is filled or until it is closed on March 31, 2027.

Click here for the full position description and application instructions. Questions about the position can be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Yvette E. Pearson .

The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. The university prohibits unlawful discrimination against a person because of their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.