Overview

The Department of Geography at the University of Nevada, Reno seeks applicants for an Applied Climatologist to be the new Nevada State Climatologist. This tenure-track position will be at the Associate Professor level and will lead Nevada’s climate program with the mandate to provide Nevadans with up to date and relevant climate services and climate information. The role of State Climatologist involves being the point of contact for all Nevadans on climate and includes a mandate to maintain descriptions of all information on climate in the state, including atmospheric conditions and levels of precipitation; and to publish findings concerning the climate in the state at least quarterly. We are, therefore, seeking applicants with a research focus on Climate Adaptation Planning, Synoptic Climatology, Urban Climatology, Climatology of Extreme Events, Climate Justice and/or other areas that complement existing strengths within the department. A research focus on western US climate would be an asset. The Department places a high value on interdisciplinary scholarship with opportunities for collaborative research within the Department and throughout campus, including the Atmospheric Sciences & Hydrologic Sciences interdisciplinary graduate programs; and centers focused on water resources, uncrewed aerial systems, and transdisciplinary climate science research. Off campus collaborations with the Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC) based here in Reno are also possible. The successful candidate is expected to develop and maintain an externally funded research program that supports the University’s land-grant mission, though teaching, research, and service to the state.

We seek candidates who can create an inclusive learning environment for all students regardless of background. A commitment to active pedagogy, student success, and excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching is essential. Desired qualities include an ability to teach graduate and undergraduate courses, such as Climatology, Weather/Climate & Society, Climate Adaptation Planning, Climate Change and/or courses related to the candidate’s area of specialization. A reduced teaching load is offered to accommodate the service demands of State Climatologist. We also seek candidates with a commitment to excellence in public outreach. Experience in speaking with the media would be an asset. A PhD in Geography, Atmospheric Sciences, or a closely related field is expected. Although this position is advertised at the Associate Professor level, we would encourage senior Assistant Professors who are on track for promotion to consider applying.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in geography, atmospheric sciences, climate science, or a closely related field at the time of appointment
  • Expertise in applications of climate science for decision-making
  • Excellent oral, written, and visual communication skills with an emphasis on communicating complex climate issues to a variety of stakeholders.
  • Experience interpreting and analyzing weather and climate data for governmental agencies, tribal organizations, industry, media, and/or the general public through formal or informal reports and/or presentations.
  • Commitment to excellence in public engagement and teaching

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience engaging in scientific teamwork to address major issues related to climate science.
  • A record of excellence in teaching and public engagement.
  • Experience collaborating with climate research and outreach centers and/or state/tribal/federal climate agencies
  • Demonstrated track record of extramural funding
  • Evidence of work with diverse or underrepresented communities or groups

Required Attachment(s)

Please note, once you submit your application the only attachment/s viewable to you will be the attachment/s to the resume/CV section of the application. Any additional required attachment/s to the cover letter, references, additional documents sections of the application, will not be viewable to you after you submit your application. All uploaded attachment/s will be on the application for the committee to review. To request updates to attachments, prior to the committee review of applications, please contact the candidate helpdesk at [email protected].

Attach the following attachments to your application

1) Resume/CV

2) Cover Letter

3) Statement describing your philosophy of climate engagement with the public (one page maximum)

4) Statement of research agenda (two pages maximum)

5) Statement of teaching interests (one page maximum)

6) An example of a climate-related communication product targeted to a non-academic audience (optional)

7) Contact Information for Five Professional References

8) Please write a brief statement (one page maximum) about how you would contribute toward our mission of creating a culturally inclusive environment in the role for which you are applying.

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a persons age, disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race, or religion.