Assistant Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences

Virginia Wesleyan University (soon to be Batten University) is seeking an Assistant Professor in Earth and Environmental Sciences for a tenure track position starting August 2026. Candidates should have a PhD in hydrology, hydrogeology, or related fields, with a passion for teaching and mentoring undergraduates. The role involves teaching various courses, engaging in experiential learning, and collaborating with diverse groups. The position is based in Virginia Beach, VA and is not remote.
Job Description

Virginia Wesleyan (VWU will change its name to Batten University on July 1) invites applicants for a tenure track position in Earth and Environmental Science/Environmental Studies at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning in August 2026. We seek broadly trained candidates with a PhD in hydrology, hydrogeology or a related discipline. Candidates with degrees from other specialty areas will be considered, but a demonstrated ability to teach a hydrology related course is essential. ABD candidates close to completion may be considered. The ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, and faculty from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds is essential. Teaching expectations include one or more undergraduate classes in hydrology or hydrogeology, and courses related to the applicant's specialty and skills offered in the Earth and Environmental Sciences, Environmental Studies and Master of Environmental Studies programs.

We seek a broadly trained teacher-scholar-mentor interested in involving undergraduate students in various forms of experiential learning including research, internships, and community engagement. The candidate should also expect to advise undergraduate majors and to participate in other forms of service to the university.

Required qualifications
• A passion for teaching and commitment to undergraduate education.
• A PhD. in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a related field, plus an interest in, and ability to teach courses in those subjects.
• Ability to teach a variety of earth science and environmental courses primarily at the undergraduate level in person, as well as online at the undergraduate or master's level.
• A strong interest in mentoring undergraduate students in research and/or other experiential learning.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other members of other departments in and out of the sciences in teaching, research, and grantsmanship.

Other Desirable Qualifications. Special consideration will be given to applicants who can demonstrate one or more of the following:
• Ability to teach courses in one or more of the following: GIS, energy, climate, geology, and/or sustainability
• Experience and interest in supporting online programs in Environmental Studies and Sustainability Management.
• Interest and experience in cultivating relationships with local and regional environmental organizations. In Hampton Roads these include the Elizabeth River Project, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Wetlands Watch, Lynnhaven River Now, the Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience, the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center, and the Hampton Roads Sanitation District.

Application Instructions
Applicants should submit, electronically, a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy and research interests, a statement on experience teaching students from diverse backgrounds, and transcripts (unofficial are acceptable at this point) using the appropriate fields on the last page of the application. Three letters of reference are required; please have each letter writer send their letter of reference directly to employment@vwu.edu. Review of applications will begin March 1, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Questions prior to application may be directed to Dr. Chris Haley, Department Chair, via (757) 455-3407 or jchaley@vwu.edu.

About Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University (vwu.edu) is Coastal Virginia's premier university of the liberal arts and sciences. Situated on a 300-acre park-like campus in Virginia Beach, VWU annually enrolls more than 5,000 learners in all programs in all locations, including nearly 1,700 students in undergraduate, graduate and online programs. Students thrive in average class sizes of 12, and nearly 90 percent of new graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of graduation. Through its Environmental Guiding Principles, the University incorporates a commitment to sustainability in every aspect of campus life. VWU is an inclusive community dedicated to scholarship and service grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, inspiring students to build meaningful lives through engagement in Coastal Virginia's dynamic metropolitan region, the nation and the world.

Location

Virginia Wesleyan has often been defined by its desirable and unique location in Coastal Virginia. Located in Virginia Beach, the University is just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay on a beautiful 300-acre park-like campus. The area is home to a host of business, governmental, and cultural institutions, as well as rich historical and natural resources. Nestled in the heart of one of Virginia's largest metropolitan areas, Virginia Wesleyan is physically insulated from the bustle of the city traffic, and yet the vast resources of its surrounding urban area are easily accessible. Our region is proud of its vibrant city life, sandy beaches, and rich history. Learn more at visitvirginiabeach.com/explore.

Statement of Non-Discrimination
Virginia Wesleyan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered on the basis of skills, experience, and qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, creed, gender, national and ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, the presence of non-job-related medical disability, or any other legally protected status.