Assistant Professor of Geography

The Department of Geography at South Dakota State University seeks applications for a tenure-track position with a specialization in Physical Geography at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 22, 2018. This is a 9-month, full-time, benefit eligible position. The Department of Geography offers B.S. degrees in Geography and GISc, an M.S. in Geography, and faculty supervision of PhD. students in the Geospatial Science program.

SDSU is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to and/or coordinate course offerings that address the experiences of underrepresented minorities in organizations. Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD in Geography, or closely related field, by first day of employment;
• Ability to develop the department’s Physical Geography program and effectively teach the program’s undergraduate and graduate courses;
• Ability to teach introductory physical geography and in the candidate’s area of specialization;
• Ability to undertake collaborative research within the department and university;
• Ability to engage in Physical Geography at the national level;
• Ability to publish the results of original research in peer-reviewed journals, and develop an independent, externally-funded research program;
• Ability to use technology in managing and delivering educational programs;
• Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to develop a field techniques course;
• Interest in helping to develop an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) course and/or integrate Geographic Information Sciences into teaching and research.

UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY:

South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive higher education institution. As South Dakota’s Morrill Act land-grant university, SDSU had a fall 2016 enrollment of 12,613 students from all 50 states and 85 countries. Students choose from 73 majors, 36 specializations, 75 minors, 35 master’s degree programs, 15 Ph.D. programs and two professional doctorates. Approximately 55% of SDSU students are residents of South Dakota, 37% from other states, and 8% from other countries. There are ongoing efforts to bring a greater global perspective to the campus to increase diversity. The work of the university is carried out on a resident campus in Brookings, at sites in Sioux Falls, Pierre, Rapid City, and through Extension offices and Agricultural Experiment Station research sites across the state.

From its roots as a land grant university established in Brookings, South Dakota in 1881, SDSU today is a vibrant, complex Carnegie Research University – High Intensity institution. It competes in Division I Athletics, is a member of the Missouri Valley Football Conference and participates in the Summit League for most other sports.

With exceptional alumni, community, and Foundation support for student scholarships as well as all aspects of campus life, SDSU is the center of life in Brookings. Brookings, a community of approximately 23,000, is located in eastern South Dakota along Interstate 29, just one hour north of the state’s largest city – Sioux Falls. Brookings is a safe, family-friendly, vibrant, thriving community with many amenities you would find in a much larger city, but with a small-town feel. Residents enjoy the tree-lined streets, leisurely pace of living, a short commute time and a variety of career opportunities in a growing job market. Division I South Dakota State University creates a youthful and energetic atmosphere and provides residents with a multitude of athletic, cultural, educational and recreational activities. The top-ranked Brookings School District offers small classroom sizes and highly qualified, experienced teachers. The city boasts an abundance of attractions and activities such as the Children’s Museum of S.D., Dakota Nature Park, S.D. Art Museum, McCrory Gardens, S.D. Ag Heritage Museum, Outdoor Adventure Center of S.D., Downtown at Sundown, and the Brookings Summer Arts Festival. Brookings is consistently ranked as a top place to live. Recent accolades include: #1 Best Place to Live in S.D., #25 Best City for Entrepreneurs, #2 Best School District in S.D., Top 10 Best Small Towns in America, Safest College Town in America, and the Top 25 Safest Cities in America. Learn more about Brookings by visiting www.LiveInBrookings.com. Bring Your Dreams!

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Position is open until filled with full consideration given to applications received by March 5, 2018

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this posting.” The system will guide you through the electronic application form. The employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, Curriculum Vitae, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. SDSU is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to and/or coordinate course offerings that address the experiences of underrepresented minorities in organizations. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, a criminal background check.

South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment.  

For questions on the positions, contact the Search Chair, Dr. Jamie Spinney at 605-688-5509 or Jamie.Spinney@sdstate.edu.