Assistant Professor - Geographic Information Science

The School of Geosciences (SGS) at the University of South Florida seeks to fill a 9-month, full-time and tenure-earning, Assistant Professor in Geographic Information Science (GIScience), with a start date of August 7, 2026. We seek an innovative scholar advancing the foundations of GIScience through novel methodologies, models, and tools. Competitive candidates will demonstrate a strong record of research in areas such as Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI), machine learning, and spatial statistics. Candidates who bridge foundational research in GIScience with applications that address global environmental and societal challenges are especially encouraged to apply. Salary is negotiable. 

The successful candidate will be expected to maintain an active, externally funded research program, teach and develop courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, advise graduate students, and contribute to departmental and university services. Potential courses include GIS programming, spatial analysis, statistics, GeoAI, machine learning and web mapping. Experience or demonstrated interest in fostering interdisciplinary research will be desirable.

Minimum Qualifications: Doctoral degree from an accredited institution in Geography, GIScience, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences or closely related field with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Applications from individuals who are ABD will be accepted, but the degree must be conferred by appointment start date. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant Professor.

Application Process-

When applying, please upload the following materials in a single PDF: 

• Cover letter
• CV
• Teaching philosophy
• Evidence of successful research
• Provide names & contact information for three (3) professional references

This position is open until filled, with initial review of applications beginning on January 7, 2025. 

Conclusion of this search is subject to final budget approval. According to Florida Law, applications and meetings regarding them are open to the public. USF is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access institution. For disability accommodations, contact Lori VanHelden at (813-974-0640 / lorivanhelden@usf.edu), a minimum of five working days in advance. This position is subject to Foreign Influence Screening. House Bill 7017 (“HB 7017”) 

Working At Usf

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About Usf

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

• Compliance and Federal Notices
• This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
• Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.