Environmental Science Professor

Your Fit

Income

$88K

Preparation

Extensive

Growth

4.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Environmental Science Professor?

An Environmental Science Professor is an academic specialist who teaches and conducts research in environmental science. They focus on the study of the environment, examining the impact of human activities on ecosystems and finding sustainable solutions.

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Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Environmental Science Professor.

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Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does an Environmental Science Professor earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$51K per year	$66K per year	$88K per year	$126K per year	$166K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $40K above the national average.

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What does an Environmental Science Professor do?

Work environment

Environmental Science Professors work primarily in colleges and universities, teaching in classrooms, laboratories, and sometimes conducting fieldwork in various environments. They also spend time in offices for research, administrative tasks, and academic meetings.

Quick task list

Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in environmental science.
Conducts research on environmental issues such as pollution, conservation, and climate change.
Publishes research findings in academic journals.
Supervises student research projects and dissertations.
Participates in academic committees and contributes to curriculum development.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Conservation Biology: Focusing on the preservation and management of biodiversity.
Environmental Policy and Management: Studying the development and implementation of environmental policies.
Ecology: Investigating the relationships between organisms and their environments.
Climate Science: Concentrating on climate systems and the effects of climate change.
Sustainable Development: Exploring sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.

Description

Environmental Science Professors play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of environmental issues and potential solutions. They are responsible for educating students on ecological principles, environmental challenges, and sustainability practices. Their teaching methods often include a mix of lectures, laboratory work, and field research, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Research is a significant part of their role, with many professors undertaking projects that address critical environmental problems. This research can influence policy, improve environmental practices, and increase public awareness of environmental issues. The ability to secure funding and publish research findings in scientific journals is key to their professional success and contribution to the field.

In addition to teaching and research, these professors are often involved in academic service activities, such as curriculum development, serving on committees, and participating in public outreach. They may also collaborate with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities to apply their research findings to real-world environmental challenges.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Making a significant impact in the field of environmental science and sustainability.
Inspiring and educating future environmental scientists and advocates.
Engaging in meaningful research that addresses pressing environmental issues.

You might make a good Environmental Science Professor if you are...

Passionate about the environment and committed to solving ecological challenges.
A strong communicator, capable of effectively conveying complex scientific information.
Detail-oriented, with excellent analytical and research skills.
Interested in interdisciplinary work that combines science, policy, and education.
Motivated to inspire and mentor the next generation of environmental professionals.

Pros:

Intellectual stimulation and the opportunity to contribute to important environmental research.
Diverse work activities, including teaching, fieldwork, and laboratory research.
Potential to influence environmental policy and practices through research and advocacy.

Cons:

Pressure to publish research and secure funding.
Balancing teaching responsibilities with research and administrative tasks.
The need to stay current in a rapidly evolving field with complex and global challenges.

How to become an Environmental Science Professor

Typical education

Becoming an Environmental Science Professor typically requires a Ph.D. in Environmental Science or a related field, which involves about 8-10 years of post-secondary education, including undergraduate and graduate studies.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Chemistry to understand the scientific basis of environmental issues.
Environmental Science to gain an overview of ecological and environmental concepts.
Mathematics, especially statistics, for data analysis in environmental research.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in environmental clubs or outdoor education programs.
Volunteering with local conservation projects or environmental organizations.
Engaging in citizen science projects or sustainability initiatives.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, or a related field.
Engage in undergraduate research opportunities and internships related to environmental science.
Obtain a master's degree and a Ph.D. in Environmental Science or a related discipline.
Gain teaching experience, possibly through graduate teaching assistantships.

More resources

Environmental Science.org - Provides career and educational information in environmental science.
National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) - Offers resources for environmental professionals.
Ecological Society of America (ESA) - A community for ecological scientists and environmental professionals offering a variety of resources.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) - Provides scientific information on climate change to support informed decision-making.
Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) - Offers a forum for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of environmental issues, policies, and management.

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