Assistant Teaching Professor of Spatial Data Science

The Department of Geography at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, invites applications for a new full-time, non-tenure line faculty position focused on spatial data science at the Assistant Teaching Professor rank to teach and advise students for Penn State’s online geospatial education programs: https://geospatial.psu.edu.

This is a 36-week non-tenure line academic appointment, funded for three years from the date of hire with the strong expectation of continuation for subsequent years, pending satisfactory performance. The University provides a clear pathway for professional advancement for its teaching faculty through its non-tenure line promotion process. We seek candidates with professional and/or academic experience (preferably both) in spatial data science, with an emphasis on one or more key focus areas, including: geospatial intelligence, spatial statistics, geographic visualization, GeoAI, cartography, and web mapping. University teaching experience, in particular with online learning, is strongly preferred.

The candidate will contribute to graduate teaching and advising in spatial data science topics. In addition, the candidate may contribute to the administration and leadership of Penn State’s online geospatial education programs. Teaching responsibilities will be with Penn State’s online geospatial education programs, with opportunities to teach in other Penn State resident education programs and to engage in externally-funded research based on candidate expertise and program needs.

A total of six courses will be taught each year, although a combination of course development and preparation, course teaching, and program administration tasks may be assigned depending on program needs and candidate qualifications. This position is located at the University Park campus and the professor will be appointed in the Department of Geography. This position may have the possibility for a hybrid schedule working some days in the office and others remotely. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process., Applicants must have earned a Master’s degree or higher (a PhD is strongly preferred) in Geography, Spatial Data Science, Geoinformatics, or a related discipline by July 1, 2027. This is a non-tenure line position. Appointment could begin as early as January 1, 2027. Application review will begin on September 15, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.