The Department of Society and Conservation in the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation at the University of Montana invites applications for a full-time academic year tenure-track Assistant Professor of Natural Resource Policy to join our interdisciplinary social science faculty. We are seeking candidates who have the ability to apply policy to a range of contemporary real-world challenges in natural resource management and environmental conservation. This position will be part of the Environmental Science and Sustainability Program, an interdisciplinary undergraduate program that connects science and solutions to provide students with the knowledge and skills to solve complex environmental problems and advance sustainability.
The successful candidate will teach policy courses serving students across degree programs within the Franke College. Courses may include undergraduate Natural Resources Policy, as well as offerings in Water Policy, Climate Policy, Wildlife Policy, and/or Environmental Politics and Policy, depending on the College’s needs and the successful candidate’s expertise. The successful candidate will also mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students (MS and PhD); lead an impactful, externally-funded research program; and participate in service activities for the Program, Department, College, and University. We welcome candidates who value “partnering with place,” a UM Priority for Action focused on engagement with Montana communities and landscapes, and the application of research to practice at the federal, state, and tribal levels.
For detailed information regarding faculty duties and expectations, please contact the Search Chair, Laurie Yung, to request a copy of the Dept. of Society and Conservation Unit Standards.
Title: Assistant Professor of Natural Resource Policy
Schedule: Full-time academic year position beginning fall semester 2027
Salary: $70,000-$85,000 per year commensurate with qualifications
Benefits: Medical Insurance/Mandatory Retirement Contribution/Professional Development/Partial Tuition Waiver/Wellness
The Department of Society and Conservation is an interdisciplinary social science department within the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation at The University of Montana. We are dedicated to research and education that addresses our most pressing human-environment challenges. We value multiple approaches to pedagogy and to social science inquiry, and we embrace interdisciplinary collaboration in and out of the classroom. Our faculty have expertise in human dimensions of natural resources, environmental governance and public lands policy, outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism, sustainable communities and livelihoods, wildland and protected area management, international conservation and development, and political ecology and environmental justice. We work at local to global scales, connecting science and practice to engage a range of decision-makers and communities. The Franke College is highly interdisciplinary and promotes collaboration across disciplines and departments in both teaching and research. Additional information can be found at https://www.umt.edu/environment/. Missoula is a wonderful place to live and work and is home to a wide range of renowned writers, artists, musicians, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of October 25, 2026, however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
Please contact Search Committee Chair Laurie Yung (laurie.yung@umontana.edu) with any questions.
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
University of Montana (UM) is an equal opportunity employer. UM does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request.
Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.
References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.
Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Due to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation and related guidance from USCIS and the Department of State, the University may be limited in its ability to offer H-1B sponsorship. At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas that require payment of the additional fee introduced by the Proclamation.
