Ecology Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change, the focus on ecology professors has never been more critical.

As our understanding of the natural world evolves, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can educate, conduct research, and advocate for our environment grows exponentially.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from an ecology professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to grasp the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of ecology education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable ecology professor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Ecology Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Ecology Professors are responsible for teaching students about the relationships between organisms and their environment.

They design, develop, and deliver lectures on ecological concepts and provide a rich learning experience for students.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing course syllabi in the field of ecology
• Delivering engaging lectures, seminars, and lab sessions on various ecological concepts
• Conducting and supervising fieldwork and research projects
• Assessing students’ work including assignments, papers, and exams
• Maintaining office hours to help students understand complex ecological concepts
• Keeping abreast of developments in the field of ecology to ensure course content remains current
• Publishing scholarly papers and books in the field of ecology
• Applying for research grants and manage funded research projects
• Participating in departmental and university meetings, and serve on academic or administrative committees as required
• Mentoring students and supervise their research

 

Ecology Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Ecology Professor to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in ecology, conducting original research, and contributing to the academic community through service and scholarship.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ecology, with a focus on areas such as ecosystem ecology, population ecology, community ecology, or evolutionary ecology.

They should also possess a passion for teaching and mentoring students.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in ecology
• Supervise student research and independent study projects
• Conduct original research in the field of ecology
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to curriculum development and improvement
• Participate in departmental and university service activities
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments in the field of ecology
• Secure external funding for research through grant writing
• Mentor and advise students on academic and career matters

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Ecology or related field
• Record of published research in the field of ecology
• Experience teaching at the university level
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and students
• Experience in grant writing and securing funding for research

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ecology Professor
• Work Environment: University setting. Some field work may be required for research purposes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair of Biology/Ecology.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of publications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Ecology Professor Do?

An Ecology Professor is an academic professional who specializes in teaching and conducting research in the field of ecology.

They provide lectures to undergraduate and graduate students, covering topics such as ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, environmental biology, climate change, and conservation.

These professors create syllabi, grade assignments, and conduct exams to assess their students’ understanding and growth.

Ecology Professors also conduct original research in their area of expertise, contributing to the broader scientific community’s understanding of ecology.

They design and carry out experiments, analyze data, publish their findings in scientific journals, and present their work at conferences.

They also supervise student research, mentor students, and provide career guidance to those interested in pursuing careers in the field of ecology.

In addition to their teaching and research responsibilities, Ecology Professors often engage in service to their institution and their profession.

This might involve serving on committees, reviewing papers for academic journals, and participating in outreach activities to increase public understanding of ecological issues.

While their primary role is within the university or college setting, they may also consult with governmental or non-profit organizations on matters of environmental policy or conservation planning.

 

Ecology Professor Qualifications and Skills

An effective Ecology Professor should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the job description, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of ecology, environmental science, and related disciplines to deliver high-quality education and research.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to clearly explain complex ecological concepts to students and to publish research findings in academic journals.
• Strong research skills to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of ecology, including fieldwork, data analysis, and the use of various research methodologies.
• Proficient in using laboratory equipment, conducting field studies and experiments related to ecology and environmental science.
• Ability to design, develop, and deliver engaging and informative lectures and presentations to students.
• Effective interpersonal and mentoring skills to guide students in their academic journey, providing support for their research and career ambitions.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple responsibilities including teaching, research, grading, and administrative tasks.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to create innovative solutions to ecological problems and to inspire students to do the same.
• Capacity to secure research funding and manage budgets for research projects.
• Ph.D. or equivalent degree in ecology, environmental science or a related field is typically required.

 

Ecology Professor Experience Requirements

To become an Ecology Professor, candidates generally must have a Ph.D. in ecology or a related field.

This would involve several years of academic study and research experience, contributing to a deep understanding of the subject.

Candidates typically gain teaching experience during their doctoral programs by serving as teaching assistants or lecturers at their universities.

This provides valuable exposure to the classroom environment and pedagogical methods.

After earning a doctoral degree, many aspiring ecology professors complete a postdoctoral research position.

These positions, which can last up to three years, provide more specialized experience in a specific area of ecology and further develop research skills.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience post-Ph.D. often have an established research portfolio, having published their work in peer-reviewed journals.

They may have also garnered teaching experience as adjunct faculty or in full-time positions at universities.

Those with more than 10 years of experience in the field and a strong record of research and teaching excellence may qualify for tenured positions.

They may also have administrative experience, having served as department chairs or in other leadership roles within their institutions.

 

Ecology Professor Education and Training Requirements

Ecology Professors typically require a Ph.D. in ecology or a related field such as environmental science or biology.

This usually involves a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, followed by a master’s degree, and then a doctorate.

The doctorate will require several years of research and the successful completion of a dissertation, based on original research.

Teaching experience is also crucial.

This can be gained during the doctorate program as many Ph.D. students undertake teaching responsibilities.

In addition to their academic qualifications, it’s important for Ecology Professors to have a broad understanding of various ecosystems, biological systems, environmental issues, and conservation techniques.

While not always required, some Ecology Professors may choose to pursue post-doctoral studies or research to specialize in a particular area of interest or to increase their understanding and knowledge base.

Successful Ecology Professors are lifelong learners who remain up-to-date with the latest ecological research and findings.

They may also need to obtain relevant certifications, depending on their area of specialization and the specific requirements of their role.

Finally, a professional license may be required in some regions, which generally requires completion of a Ph.D., significant work experience, and passing a comprehensive exam.

 

Ecology Professor Salary Expectations

An Ecology Professor earns an average salary of $86,330 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary significantly depending on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the institution they work for, their level of education and the geographical location of the institution.

 

Ecology Professor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an ecology professor need?

An ecology professor should have a strong understanding of ecological principles and the ability to conduct independent research.

They should have excellent communication skills to present complex ecological concepts in an easily understandable manner to students.

The role also requires organizational skills for managing lectures, laboratory classes, and research projects.

They should also have a passion for environmental issues and the ability to inspire students to participate in ecological studies.

 

What are the educational requirements for an ecology professor?

An ecology professor typically requires a Ph.D. in ecology or a related field.

Prior to becoming a professor, they may also need to gain postdoctoral research experience.

Some institutions may accept a Master’s degree with significant work experience in the field of ecology.

 

What should you look for in an ecology professor’s resume?

On an ecology professor’s resume, you should look for an advanced degree in ecology or a related field, along with extensive research experience.

Publications in peer-reviewed journals indicate a successful research career.

Teaching experience is also important, so look for any teaching roles, student mentoring, or curriculum development they have undertaken.

Experience with grant writing is a plus as funding is often required for research projects.

 

What qualities make a good ecology professor?

A good ecology professor possesses a deep understanding of ecological systems and the ability to convey this knowledge effectively to students.

They are passionate about their subject and able to inspire a similar enthusiasm in their students.

They should be patient, approachable, and supportive to foster a positive learning environment.

A good ecology professor is also committed to staying up-to-date with the latest ecological research and incorporating it into their teaching.

 

Is it difficult to hire ecology professors?

Hiring ecology professors can be a challenge due to the specialized nature of the field and the high level of education required.

Institutions often look for candidates with a strong record of published research, teaching experience, and the ability to secure grant funding.

As a result, finding suitable candidates may take time and resources.

However, the academic field is competitive, and there are typically many highly qualified candidates looking for professorial roles.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the core of what it truly means to be an ecology professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about imparting knowledge.

It’s about shaping the future, one class at a time.

With our comprehensive ecology professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your launchpad for impeccably constructed listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every lecture is a step towards a greener future.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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