Assistant or Associate Professor in Critical Minerals Resources

Simon Fraser University

The Opportunity
The Department of Earth Sciences (EASC) at Simon Fraser University invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, commencing as early as September 2025. A PhD is required, and previous professional experience (e.g., academic or industry) is considered favourable.

Desired Research Area
The ideal candidate will conduct cutting-edge fundamental and applied research into the characterization of processes and environments related to the genesis of critical minerals, leading to insight into effective mineral resource development. We seek applicants with research expertise in the broad area of critical mineral resources, complemented by a strong background in igneous petrology. Candidates capable of leading field- and laboratory-based research related to igneous processes that can facilitate critical mineral development are encouraged to apply. The research activities and expertise of the successful candidate should also complement and extend those existing within the Department.

Core Duties
The successful candidate will develop an internationally recognized, externally funded research program, and play a pivotal role in training a new generation of professionals via supervision of graduate and undergraduate students. Teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate- and graduate-level courses that support the Geology and Environmental Geoscience curriculum, as well as SFU’s joint Earth Sciences/Chemistry program. Specific undergraduate courses would likely include Economic Geological Resources, Mineral Deposits, and Igneous Petrology. The candidate will also be encouraged to become a registered Professional Geoscientist in British Columbia.

The Department will consider applications at the ranks of Assistant and Associate professor, with the following expectations:

Qualifications for Assistant Professor
Excellence in research and teaching are the primary criteria for this position. The successful candidate must hold a PhD by the employment start date.

The candidate must demonstrate:
• a strong record of research productivity commensurate with their experience;
• establishment of, or potential for, a successful research program;
• potential for excellence in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate level;
• potential for supervision of graduate students.

Qualifications for Associate Professor
Excellence in research and teaching are the primary criteria for this position. Normally, to be considered for Associate Professor candidates will already hold the rank, or have experience commensurate with the higher rank.

The candidate must demonstrate:
• a strong record of research productivity commensurate with their experience;
• establishment of, or potential for, a successful research program;
• sustained success in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate level;
• potential for supervision of graduate students;
• demonstrated contribution to the academic community and potential contribution to the Department, Faculty and University’s academic community.

About the Department of Earth Sciences and SFU
The mission of EASC is to conduct innovative research and teaching that shapes the way in which we understand Earth’s evolution, and positions us to address the growing challenges of resource security and sustainability, climate change and natural hazards. We are committed to fostering a supportive and accommodating environment for all our members and maintaining a diverse and vibrant research setting that provides outstanding training and experiential learning at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Simon Fraser University is an institution whose strength is based on our shared commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion. Diversity is an underlying principle of our Strategic Vision, which pledges SFU to “foster a culture of inclusion and mutual respect, celebrating the diversity reflected among its students, faculty, staff, and our community.” SFU is committed to ensuring that no individual is denied access to employment opportunities for reasons unrelated to ability or qualifications. Consistent with this principle, SFU will advance the interests of underrepresented members of the work force, including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, racialized persons and women; embrace gender and sexual diversity; ensure that equal opportunity is afforded to all who seek employment at the University; and treat all employees equitably. Candidates that belong to underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

Faculty salaries at SFU are based on the 2024 salary scales bargained between the University and the SFU Faculty Association. A reasonable estimate of the base salary range for this role at the Assistant Professor rank is $104,700 - $133,322 and $130,142 - $155,584 at the Associate Professor rank (dependent on experience).

How To Apply
Candidates should address their applications to Dr. Daniel Gibson, Chair of the Search Committee. Applicants should submit their applications by email to the EASC Chair’s Secretary, eascsec@sfu.ca and include:
• A cover letter (maximum of 2 pages) that addresses: 1) the reasons for applying to the position, and 2) a narrative description highlighting evidence that the candidate meets the job requirements and can effectively perform the listed job duties. Within this letter, candidates are encouraged to elaborate on their experiences related to equity, diversity and inclusion and reflect on how these experiences may shape their commitment to fostering a respectful and collegial learning and working environment. Candidates may highlight how alternative paths and/or interruptions, if any, have impacted them.
• Specify the rank you are applying for (Assistant or Associate Professor).
• A curriculum vitae (include details of research, teaching, and any professional experience).
• A concise research statement articulating current and future research plans (maximum of 2 pages).
• A teaching statement describing teaching experience and philosophy (maximum of 2 pages).
• The names of 3 references (including phone numbers and email addresses), one of whom can speak to teaching capabilities, and at least one who is not a co-author.
• Please indicate your legal status to work in Canada.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. Personal information that forms part of an application is collected under the general authority of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, applicable University Policies, and the SFUFA/SFU Collective Agreement. For further details see the full Collection Notice.

Full consideration will be given to applications received by November 22, 2024. Applications received after this deadline may be reviewed if the position is still open.

Simon Fraser University respectfully acknowledges the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), q̓íc̓əy̓ (Katzie), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Qayqayt, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, and Tsawwassen peoples on whose unceded traditional territories our three campuses reside.