Villanova University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences invites applications for a Mendel Science Experience Post-doctoral Fellow within the Department of Geography & the Environment. The Fellows program is designed to enhance the College’s teaching of science to non-science majors through the Mendel Science Experience program and to foster the professional development of recent Ph.D. recipients on a career path leading to faculty positions. Positions are for a 12-month appointment with a 50:50 split between teaching and research. The appointment is for one year, renewable up to a total of three years at the University’s sole discretion. A modest research/travel stipend and relocation expenses are available. The position begins in August 2026.

Candidates with a background in biology, geology, environmental science, or related fields, with research interests in watershed biogeochemistry, limnology, ecohydrology, or hydrology, are encouraged to apply. Candidates with experience in statistical and/or GIS analysis are also encouraged. Applicants are expected to assist faculty in the Department of Geography and the Environment by co-teaching a Mendel Science Experience lecture and laboratory course on climate change in fall of 2026 and co-teaching an upper-level laboratory course on watershed biogeochemistry in the spring of 2027. Fellows are also expected to co-design (in 2026) and teach (in fall 2027) a new Mendel Science Experience course on watershed science and sustainability. Additional teaching in subsequent semesters will include Mendel Science Experience courses and courses in the postdoctoral fellow’s area of specialization. The successful applicant will join the laboratory of Dr. Steven Goldsmith and conduct research on watershed biogeochemistry with possible research focuses including road salts, microplastics/litter, and natural gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale (please see http://goldsmithenvironmental.com for more information on research in the Goldsmith lab). The postdoc will have opportunities to mentor undergraduate research. The postdoctoral fellow will be a member of the Department’s faculty and will attend faculty meetings, receive annual evaluations, and receive other professional development experiences that are appropriate for candidates considering future careers in academia.

Applications must include a curriculum vitae, transcripts of all graduate work, a cover letter that includes a statement of career goals and research interests, a teaching statement, a statement on the contribution to the department’s mission, and names and contact information of three professional references.

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect, and can contribute to the University’s mission and values.

The Department values dynamic faculty members who are committed to teaching, scholarship, and service. For a more detailed description of the Department of Geography and the Environment, please consult https://www1.villanova.edu/university/liberal-arts-sciences/programs/geography-environment.html or contact Dr. Steven Goldsmith (steven.goldsmith@villanova.edu), who will serve as the research and teaching mentor for this position.

Positions are for a 12-month appointment with a 50:50 split between teaching and research. The appointment is for one year, renewable up to a total of three years at the University’s sole discretion.

Candidates are expected to have completed their Ph.D. degree before the appointment starts.

Applications must include

Competitive.