Meteorology and Atmospheric Science Faculty in Climate Science with Emphasis on Climate Feedbacks

Penn State is seeking a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Climate Science within the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science. The role focuses on advancing understanding of climate dynamics and feedbacks, requiring a Ph.D. in a related field. Responsibilities include developing research programs, teaching, and mentoring students. While remote work is mentioned, approval is not guaranteed, indicating the position is primarily on-site in Pennsylvania.
Job Number: REQ_0000076621

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in climate science at the rank of Assistant Professor. We seek an atmospheric scientist whose research advances fundamental understanding of the climate system, with particular interest in candidates working on climate dynamics, radiative feedbacks, cloud-climate interactions, large-scale circulation changes, and the processes that shape uncertainty in climate change projections. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, climate sensitivity, the pattern effect, transient versus equilibrium climate response, tropical climate dynamics, precipitation change, aerosol-cloud interactions, and the use of a hierarchy of models, perturbed-parameter ensembles, or other physically grounded approaches to understand climate processes and reduce projection uncertainty.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop a vigorous, externally funded research program; teach and mentor undergraduate and graduate students; and contribute to the department's strengths in atmospheric science and climate dynamics. We particularly welcome candidates whose work connects fundamental climate-process understanding to societally relevant questions, including climate risk, extremes, and health impacts. We also value candidates who have demonstrated commitment to broadening participation in the geosciences and fostering an inclusive academic community.

A Ph.D. in atmospheric science, climate science, oceanography, or a closely related field is required by the time of appointment.

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science values excellence in research, teaching, service, and mentoring, and is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of our community. We seek colleagues who will contribute positively to this mission through their scholarship, teaching, mentoring, and service.

Applications should include:
(1) a cover letter;
(2) a research statement describing past accomplishments and future plans;
(3) a teaching and mentoring statement;
(4) a statement describing the applicant's past and/or planned contributions to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment;
(5) a curriculum vitae; and
(6) contact information for four references.

System limitations allow for a total of 5 documents (5mb per document) as part of your application. Please combine materials to meet the 5-document limit.

Review of applicants will begin on 3/20/2026 and the position will remain open until filled. Inquiries about the position may be directed to Dr. Melissa Gervais, mmg62@psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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