Description
Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Earth sciences. Includes faculty primarily engaged in teaching and those who combine teaching with research.
- • Conduct Earth science research and publish findings in journals, books, or digital media.
- • Write grant proposals to secure external funding for Earth science research and education.
- • Stay current in the field by reading literature, conferring with colleagues, and attending conferences.
- • Supervise undergraduate and graduate teaching, internships, and research projects in Earth science.
- • Prepare and deliver lectures on topics such as plate tectonics, mineralogy, geomorphology, hydrology, and Earth systems.
- • Supervise laboratory and field activities, including mapping, sampling, and instrumentation use.
- • Evaluate and grade students' coursework, lab reports, and papers.
- • Prepare course materials such as syllabi, assignments, lab manuals, and field guides.
- • Collaborate with colleagues on curriculum, pedagogy, and research initiatives.
- • Develop, administer, and grade examinations or oversee teaching assistants who do so.
- • Plan, assess, and revise Earth science curricula, course content, and instructional methods.
- • Lead and moderate classroom and field discussions.
- • Hold regular office hours to advise and assist students.
- • Advise students on academic pathways, research opportunities, and geoscience careers.
- • Maintain student attendance, grades, and other required records.
- • Participate in student recruitment, orientation, and placement activities.
- • Perform administrative duties such as program coordination or course scheduling.
- • Select and procure textbooks, software, and lab and field equipment.
- • Serve on departmental, college, or university committees.
- • Compile bibliographies and reading lists for specialized Earth science topics.
- • Provide professional consulting services to government, industry, or nonprofits.
- • Advise and mentor student organizations such as geology clubs and honor societies.
- • Engage in campus and community outreach and public events.
- • Purchase, maintain, and calibrate equipment and software to support research and teaching.
- • Review manuscripts and grant proposals; serve on editorial or review panels.
- • Communicate with the public and media about Earth science issues and findings.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
