Assistant Professor in Forest Systems

The Department of Environmental Sciences at Western Washington University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in Forest Systems. We seek a teacher‑scholar whose research focuses on forest ecosystems in the context of global environmental change.

Areas of emphasis may include, but are not limited to:

• Climate-driven changes in forest structure and function, including the impacts of altered temperature, precipitation, and wildfire frequency
• Carbon cycling and sequestration
• Deforestation and land‑use change
• Impacts of invasive species, disease, and pests
• Urbanization and wildland‑urban interface dynamics

We are especially interested in candidates whose work incorporates advanced quantitative and computational toolsets, such as:

• Remote sensing and geospatial analytics
• Coding and reproducible computational workflows
• Management and analysis of large or global datasets
• Down scaled regional climate or ecological modeling

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Establish and maintain an active, externally engaged research program in forest systems that supports both graduate (Master’s) and undergraduate research
• Teach a range of courses, including foundational offerings such as Forest Ecology, Biostatistical Analysis, Landscape Ecology, and Remote Sensing/GIS, as well as develop new courses aligned with their area of specialization
• Mentor and advise undergraduate and graduate students
• Contribute to departmental, college, and university service
• Demonstrate a commitment to inclusive, student‑centered pedagogy and equitable learning environments

• PhD or ABD at time of application in Forest Ecology, Forestry, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field. If ABD, all degree requirements must be completed by June 15th of the first year of employment (e.g., June 15, 2027).
• Evidence of scholarly potential or a demonstrated record of peer‑reviewed research.
• Demonstrated experience with quantitative and/or computational tools relevant to forest systems.
• Ability to teach core departmental courses and to mentor diverse learners.
• Potential to cultivate high‑quality learning and working environments that are equitable and inclusive of individuals with diverse social identities and backgrounds.
• Commitment to establishing and sustaining a research program that engages undergraduate and M.S. students.

• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Demonstrated success or strong potential in securing external research funding.
• Experience developing new courses aligned with the candidate’s research specialty.
• Experience of fering courses with a research focus, such as a CURE (Course‑based Undergraduate Research Experience) approach.
• Teaching and scholarship interests and experience aligned with the Environmental Sciences Department’s goals.

The starting salary range for assistant professor appointment, tenure‑track is generally between $77,000 - $82,000 with placement within the position’s salary range being based on qualifications and professional experience. The entire salary range for the assistant professor position is $77,000 - $93,000, with the upper end of the salary range typically being achieved through collectively bargained salary adjustments. Relocation assistance may be available per university guidelines.

Salary and start‑up funds are to be determined upon being offered the position.

Interested candidates must apply here online.

A complete application should include: