Job Details

Overview

Assistant Professor - Outdoor Studies Program University of Alaska Southeast

Please note that this vacancy has an anticipated start date of August 2026

The University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track assistant professor in its interdisciplinary Outdoor Studies program beginning August 2026. We seek a scholar with a background in the humanities or social sciences who can teach both interdisciplinary academic courses and outdoor field courses, and who will maintain a productive research/scholarship program.

Program Context

The Outdoor Studies Program, housed in the humanities department, offers an interdisciplinary liberal arts approach that integrates technical courses in climbing, kayaking, backcountry skiing, and other outdoor pursuits with courses in philosophy, literature, the social sciences, and related areas. The program awards a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies, a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Outdoor and Adventure Studies, and a two-semester certificate in Outdoor Skills and Leadership.

The UAS Juneau campus overlooks Auke Bay and the Mendenhall Glacier, providing excellent access to salt water, fresh water, mountains, and glaciers.

Responsibilities

• Teach both lower- and upper-division interdisciplinary academic courses (examples: Philosophy 372 Perspectives on the Natural World; Environmental Studies 120 Cultures and Environments; Humanities 370 Sport, Leisure, and Culture).
• Teach outdoor field courses (examples: Backpacking in Southeast Alaska; Backcountry Skiing; Introduction to Sea Kayaking).
• Maintain an active research program in humanities or social sciences with an emphasis on collaborative, interdisciplinary work.
• Lead or assist in expedition courses that involve international travel and time in remote environments.
• Demonstrate outdoor leadership/guide experience and basic competence in skiing or snowboarding; these are assets for the role.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in a humanities, social science, or related field (ABD considered).
• A valid drivers license and a clean driving record in compliance with UA Safe Driving Criteria.

Position Details

This is a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track faculty appointment located on the University of Alaska campus in Juneau. The position includes a competitive salary and full employee benefits package. UA provides retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable health care options. The position is represented by United Academics (UNAC).

For full job responsibilities, see the application link in the posting. HERE.

Contact and Application Process

For questions about the position, contact Dr. Kevin Krein, Professor of Philosophy and Director of Outdoor Studies: ...@alaska.edu. For application assistance, contact UA Human Resources at (907) ###-####.

Interested applicants should submit their application online. Initial application review takes place on November 26, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled. Required materials include:

1. Cover letter
2. Academic Curriculum Vitae
3. Resume of Outdoor Experiences (professional experience, personal trips, certifications, skills, etc.)
4. Statement of teaching philosophy
5. Statement of research experience and future plans
6. Copies of graduate and undergraduate transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at time of application; official transcripts later)
7. Three professional references

Additional Information

* Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Visa sponsorship requirements may affect eligibility.

This position is represented by United Academics (UNAC).

This position is term-funded and reviewed annually for contract renewal at the Universitys discretion. The University of Alaska provides reasonable accommodations during the applicant screening process; contact UA Human Resources for assistance.

The University of Alaska is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination against individuals on the basis of legally protected status.

Applicants should note that a background check is required for employment offers. Public disclosure rules apply to employment applications under the Alaska Public Records Act.