Assistant Faculty Position – Geoscience Innovation with AI

Rice University • Houston, TX

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Rice University, in Houston, TX, seeks applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2027. Applications are encouraged from scientists who innovatively develop and adapt Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods to advance understanding of processes in Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences. Approaches that harness the potential of AI in conjunction with terrestrial or space-based geoscience data, computational and physics-based modeling of geoscience processes, and/or field observations are encouraged. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated expertise in developing and adapting AI methods for problems in the geoscience domain, potentially encompassing molecular to planetary scales and from Earth’s atmosphere to its deep interior. We welcome research linked to major challenges in natural hazards, energy transition, climate, and environmental systems. The successful candidate is expected to establish a vigorous, externally funded research program, teach core courses, and develop undergraduate and graduate courses within their area of expertise, and be involved in service to the department, university, and the broader scientific community. Candidates are encouraged to consider their alignment with initiatives outlined in Rice’s strategic plan ( https://momentous.rice.edu/ ).

Requirements

• Earned a Ph.D. degree in Earth, Environmental, or Planetary Science or a related field by the time of the appointment
• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement on research
• Statement on teaching
• Names, affiliations, and email addresses of at least three professional references

Nice To Haves

• Approaches that harness the potential of AI in conjunction with terrestrial or space-based geoscience data, computational and physics-based modeling of geoscience processes, and/or field observations
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and adapting AI methods for problems in the geoscience domain, potentially encompassing molecular to planetary scales and from Earth’s atmosphere to its deep interior
• Research linked to major challenges in natural hazards, energy transition, climate, and environmental systems
• Plans to foster welcoming and supportive environments in their research group and classes (can be included in research and teaching statements)

Responsibilities

• Establish a vigorous, externally funded research program
• Teach core courses
• Develop undergraduate and graduate courses within their area of expertise
• Be involved in service to the department, university, and the broader scientific community

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree