Herpetology Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the scientific realm, the focus on herpetology professors is more significant than ever.

As our understanding of reptiles and amphibians evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can research, teach, and protect these creatures grows more urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a herpetology professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A university hiring committee outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the study of reptiles and amphibians,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable herpetology professor job description template, designed for easy posting on academic job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Herpetology Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Herpetology Professors are experts in the study of reptiles and amphibians, combining teaching, research, and field work to contribute to this scientific field.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing and delivering lectures on herpetology topics to undergraduate or postgraduate students
• Assigning, grading, and providing feedback on student coursework and examinations
• Conducting research in the field of herpetology, publishing findings in academic journals, and presenting at conferences
• Supervising student research projects and theses related to herpetology
• Advising students on academic and career matters, and mentoring them in their academic progress
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge in the field of herpetology and related disciplines
• Collaborating with colleagues in academic and research activities
• Securing funding for research projects and managing project budgets
• Participating in departmental and university meetings, and serving on academic or administrative committees
• Performing fieldwork to collect and analyze data on reptiles and amphibians, including their behaviour, physiology, and ecological relationships

 

Herpetology Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Herpetology Professor to join our faculty.

As a Herpetology Professor, you will be responsible for conducting lectures, developing curriculum, supervising students’ research, and contributing to the advancement of the field of herpetology.

Our ideal candidate possesses significant experience in herpetology, a strong academic background, and the ability to inspire and educate students about the study of amphibians and reptiles.

 

Responsibilities

• Deliver lectures on herpetology in a clear and engaging manner
• Design and implement academic syllabi and curricula
• Supervise and guide students’ research projects
• Publish scholarly articles in academic journals
• Stay updated with recent developments in the field of herpetology
• Participate in faculty and college activities
• Assess student performance and provide feedback
• Actively contribute to the university’s research objectives

 

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Herpetology or related field
• Previous teaching experience at a university level
• Proven track record of research and publication in the field of herpetology
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to inspire students and foster a stimulating learning environment
• Proficient in using educational technology

 

Benefits

• Pension plan
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition remission for employees and their children

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Herpetology Professor
• Work Environment: University campus, with occasional fieldwork for research purposes
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Department
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and academic considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $180,000 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 institution. 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 published works to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Herpetology Professor Do?

A Herpetology Professor is an educator and researcher in the field of herpetology, the study of amphibians and reptiles.

This profession typically involves working at universities and other higher education institutions.

In their teaching role, Herpetology Professors design and deliver lectures on topics such as the biology, behavior, and conservation of amphibians and reptiles.

They guide students through lab work, teaching them how to handle, identify, and study these organisms.

They also assess students’ performance through exams, assignments, and practical tests.

As researchers, Herpetology Professors conduct in-depth studies into specific aspects of herpetology, such as species diversity, evolutionary biology, or the effects of environmental changes on amphibians and reptiles.

This involves collecting and analyzing data, publishing findings in academic journals, and presenting research at scientific conferences.

Herpetology Professors also often advise undergraduate and postgraduate students on their research projects.

This includes providing guidance on research design, methodology, data analysis, and thesis writing.

In addition, they may engage in public outreach activities, such as giving public lectures, contributing to science education programs, and advising policymakers on issues related to amphibians and reptiles.

 

Herpetology Professor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Herpetology Professor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge in herpetology including the biology and ecology of amphibians and reptiles.
• Proven experience in teaching and mentoring students at the university level.
• Strong research skills, with a track record of publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills to convey complex scientific concepts in an understandable and engaging manner.
• Ability to design and implement effective herpetology curriculum and teaching methodologies, to foster learning and academic progress in students.
• Experience in conducting field studies and ability to guide students in fieldwork.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with a diverse group of students and faculty, fostering a positive learning environment.
• Ability to secure grants and funding for academic research.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve academic and research challenges.
• Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the academic community.

 

Herpetology Professor Experience Requirements

The pathway to becoming a Herpetology Professor typically begins with the completion of a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field.

This foundational degree offers initial exposure and understanding of the scientific principles associated with the field.

Afterwards, individuals would need to pursue a Master’s degree in Herpetology, Zoology, or related fields, which would provide more specialized training and practical experience.

Additionally, to become a professor, it is generally expected to hold a Ph.D. in Herpetology or a related area.

This involves several years of study and original research, resulting in a doctoral dissertation.

The Ph.D. program provides in-depth knowledge and research experience in the field of Herpetology.

Postdoctoral research or work experience is often required, ideally for a minimum of 2 to 3 years.

During this time, individuals can gain experience in leading their own research projects and teaching at the university level.

Candidates with 5 to 7 years of academic and research experience often possess the skills and knowledge necessary for a professorial role.

This includes experience in writing grant proposals, publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals, and presenting at scientific conferences.

Finally, those with more than 10 years of experience may be ready for a more senior role within academia, such as a department head or dean.

This often requires a demonstrated record of leadership, successful grant writing, extensive research contribution, and effective teaching and mentoring.

 

Herpetology Professor Education and Training Requirements

A Herpetology Professor typically requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in herpetology, biology, zoology, or a related field.

This degree should include extensive coursework and research in the study of reptiles and amphibians, as well as coursework in pedagogy if the individual plans to teach at the university level.

Practical experience in fieldwork, laboratory research, and data analysis is crucial.

This can be obtained through internships, research assistantships, or post-doctoral research positions.

In addition to their specialization in herpetology, a comprehensive understanding of general biology, ecology, and evolution is also necessary.

They also need to be familiar with the usage of research tools and technologies used in the study of herpetology.

As professors, they need to have a certain level of teaching experience.

This can be gained through teaching assistantships during their doctoral studies or working as an adjunct professor post-graduation.

It’s also beneficial for a Herpetology Professor to have a track record of published research in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Some universities may require professors to have or be willing to obtain a teaching certification.

Continuing education is crucial in this role, as they need to stay updated with the latest research and findings in the field of herpetology.

This can be achieved through attending seminars, conferences, and workshops, as well as reading and contributing to scientific literature.

Professors may also need to secure research grants, so experience or training in grant writing can be beneficial.

 

Herpetology Professor Salary Expectations

A Herpetology Professor earns an average salary of $87,053 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate depending on the professor’s experience, the location of the institution, and the specific funding and resources available to the university or college.

 

Herpetology Professor Job Description FAQs

What is the educational requirement for a Herpetology Professor?

To become a Herpetology Professor, one must hold at least a Ph.D. in Herpetology or a related field such as Zoology or Biology.

Prior to obtaining a Ph.D., a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in similar fields are also necessary.

Post-doctoral experience and published research in the field of Herpetology are considered significant advantages.

 

What does a typical day look like for a Herpetology Professor?

A typical day for a Herpetology Professor can include a wide range of tasks.

They may spend time lecturing and conducting classes, preparing lesson plans, grading student work, and supervising student lab work.

They might also spend a portion of their day conducting their own research, writing and submitting papers to scientific journals, and staying updated with the latest research in Herpetology.

Other tasks could include advising students, participating in faculty meetings, and managing departmental responsibilities.

 

What skills does a Herpetology Professor need?

A Herpetology Professor should have strong communication and teaching skills to effectively share complex scientific knowledge with students.

They should have a deep understanding of herpetology and be able to conduct independent research.

Critical thinking, problem-solving, patience, and the ability to inspire and motivate students are also important skills.

Proficiency in laboratory and fieldwork methods, as well as the use of relevant technology and software, is necessary.

 

What qualities make a good Herpetology Professor?

A good Herpetology Professor is passionate about their field and is eager to impart that passion to their students.

They should be organized and meticulous, able to manage multiple tasks such as teaching, grading, and research.

They should be approachable and supportive, assisting students in their academic growth.

A dedication to continued learning and staying abreast of advancements in the field of herpetology is also key.

 

What should you look for in a Herpetology Professor’s resume?

A strong resume for a Herpetology Professor will include a Ph.D. in Herpetology or a related field, as well as relevant teaching experience.

It should also highlight any notable research or publications in the field of Herpetology.

Look for experience with lab and fieldwork, along with specific courses or seminars taught.

Any special recognitions or awards can also indicate a strong candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of herpetology and what it truly means to be a herpetology professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying reptiles and amphibians.

It’s about shaping the future of herpetology, one class or research project at a time.

With our comprehensive herpetology professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why settle there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating accurate job listings or refining your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every reptile or amphibian studied contributes to the larger understanding of the field.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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