Applications are open for the Assistant Professor in Climate Science position at Stanford University, offering an opportunity for outstanding researchers to join one of the world’s leading academic institutions and contribute to cutting-edge climate research.
The tenure-track faculty position is hosted by the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability and welcomes applications from scholars studying diverse areas of climate science, including climate processes, climate change impacts, sustainability engineering, modelling, field research, and data-driven climate analysis.
The application deadline is 1 November 2026.
About Stanford University Climate Science Faculty Position
Stanford University is seeking an emerging leader in climate science for a University Tenure Line Assistant Professor position.
The successful candidate will join the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, a multidisciplinary academic environment focused on developing solutions to global sustainability challenges.
The home department may be selected from any of the seven departments within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, depending on the candidate’s research interests and departmental alignment.
Research Areas of Interest
Stanford welcomes applications from scholars working across all areas of climate science.
Potential research areas include:
Climate Processes
Research focused on understanding fundamental climate systems, including:
- Atmospheric processes
- Ocean and land interactions
- Climate variability
- Climate dynamics
Climate Change Impacts
Candidates researching the consequences of climate change are encouraged to apply.
Areas may include:
- Extreme weather events
- Ecosystem impacts
- Human and environmental risks
- Climate adaptation strategies
Sustainability Engineering
The position also welcomes researchers developing engineering-based approaches to sustainability challenges.
Potential areas include:
- Climate solutions
- Sustainable technologies
- Environmental systems
- Climate mitigation strategies
Research Approaches
Stanford welcomes diverse methodological approaches, including:
- Climate modelling
- Theoretical research
- Laboratory investigations
- Field studies
- Historical climate analysis
- Satellite data research
- Interdisciplinary synthesis
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should have completed or be close to completing a:
- PhD
- Equivalent doctoral qualification
Candidates should have expertise in climate science or related disciplines.
The university welcomes applications from researchers with diverse academic backgrounds who can contribute to climate research, teaching, and innovation.
Faculty Responsibilities
The selected Assistant Professor will contribute to Stanford’s academic mission through:
Research
Responsibilities include:
- Developing an independent research programme
- Publishing impactful research
- Securing research funding
- Collaborating across disciplines
- Training future climate researchers
Teaching
The successful candidate will:
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses
- Mentor students
- Support academic development
- Contribute to sustainability education
Academic Community Engagement
Stanford values faculty members who help create an open and respectful academic environment that supports individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Candidates may discuss how their research and teaching experiences contribute to inclusive academic communities.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials:
1. Cover Letter
A letter outlining the candidate’s qualifications, research interests, and suitability for the position.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Applicants should provide a complete academic CV highlighting:
- Education
- Research experience
- Publications
- Awards
- Teaching experience
- Professional activities
3. Reference Letters
Applicants must provide contact information for:
Three reference letter writers
References will be contacted as part of the selection process.
4. Research Statement
Maximum length:
2 pages
The statement should describe:
- Research achievements
- Current projects
- Future research agenda
- Potential contributions to Stanford
5. Teaching Statement
Maximum length:
1 page
The teaching statement should explain:
- Teaching experience
- Educational philosophy
- Approach to mentoring students
Salary and Benefits
The expected base salary range for the position is:
Assistant Professor:
US$143,500 – US$180,000 per year
The final salary offer will depend on factors including:
- Academic experience
- Qualifications
- Research background
- Field or discipline
- Departmental budget
- Internal salary considerations
- Market conditions
Stanford provides competitive benefits and a supportive academic environment for faculty members.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Stanford University is an equal opportunity employer.
The university welcomes applications from candidates who contribute additional perspectives and experiences to its research, teaching, and academic community.
Qualified applicants are considered without discrimination based on protected characteristics under applicable laws.
Position Details
Position: Assistant Professor in Climate Science
Institution: Stanford University
School: Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability
Academic Line: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford, California, United States
Opening Date: 3 August 2026
Application Deadline: 1 November 2026
Salary Range: US$143,500–US$180,000 annually
Why Apply to Stanford?
Joining Stanford provides researchers with the opportunity to:
- Work at a globally recognised research university
- Collaborate with leading sustainability scientists
- Access advanced research facilities
- Mentor future generations of scientists
- Contribute to solutions for global climate challenges
The position offers an opportunity for an ambitious climate scientist to establish a major research programme and influence the future of sustainability research.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through Stanford University’s official faculty recruitment portal.
Applicants should ensure that all required documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Application Deadline:
1 November 2026
