The Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science (BGE) at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) in the College of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Plant Ecology beginning August 1, 2027. We seek candidates with research and teaching focused in any area of plant ecology.

Qualifications
Requirements for the position include:

Ph.D. focused in plant ecology, botany, plant conservation, or related field [individuals who are all but dissertation (ABD) will be considered; however, the degree must be awarded prior to the start date;
Ability to teach from the freshman undergraduate level through the Master’s level in ecology, plant ecology (lecture and laboratory), plant conservation, and general botany, as well as undergraduate courses in introductory biology, environmental science, and courses in areas of specialization;
Ability to establish an independent research program in plant ecology or plant conservation involving undergraduate and graduate students;
Ability to work collegially with students, fellow faculty, staff, and community partners; and
Ability to utilize high-impact practices in teaching and student engagement from the undergraduate to the graduate level
The successful candidate’s application will also provide evidence of the following preferred qualifications:

Research, teaching, and mentoring experience in field-based plant ecology, plant conservation, plant (eco-)physiology, habitat or species restoration, biodiversity conservation, and potentially incorporate other expertise areas, e.g., remote sensing and GIS (Geographic Information Systems), conservation/education outreach, molecular methods, or statistical programming languages (e.g. R, Python);
Contribute to UTC's undergraduate and graduate biology, geology, and environmental science students through research and teaching focused on contemporary environmental challenges;
Creatively seek a wide range of external funding opportunities to support independent research or UTC undergraduate and graduate students in the candidate’s field; and
Provide university, community, and professional service, including collaborations with community partners.
Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2026. To be considered for the position, all applications must include all the following:

A cover letter;
A statement of research experience and vision, providing evidence of position requirements;
A statement of teaching experience and philosophy, providing evidence of position requirements;
A curriculum vitae;
All unofficial transcripts; and
A list of names, titles, and email addresses for three (3) references for confidential letters of recommendation to be requested at later stages in the search process. At least one reference must be able to comment on teaching ability.
Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Gretchen Potts, BGE Department Head, Gretchen-Potts@utc.edu. Applications must be submitted electronically through the UTC Faculty Career Site.