Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Environmental Science Professor
What environmental science professors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an environmental science professor?
Teach intro environmental science. From there, the day usually includes teach environmental science courses, lead field sampling labs, and conduct research. Teaching, research and service, with field days in good weather.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an environmental science professor working full time.
- Teach intro environmental science.
- Lead a stream sampling lab.
- Analyze water quality data.
- Meet a city sustainability office.
- Teach a climate policy seminar.
- Advise a student project.
- Edit a paper.
Where environmental science professors work
Faculty work in classrooms, labs and field sites.
Hours and schedule
Teaching, research and service, with field days in good weather.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Teach environmental science courses
- Lead field sampling labs
- Conduct research
- Partner with communities and agencies
- Mentor students
- Write grants
- Publish research
Tools you’ll use every day
- Water quality meters
- GIS
- Statistical software
- Field gear
- Lab instruments
- Learning management systems
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Meaningful topics
- Field and lab variety
- Community partnerships
- Passionate students
What’s hard
- Grant dependence
- Competitive positions
- Field logistics
- Emotionally heavy topics
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I care about the environment
- I like field research
- I enjoy teaching
- I want community impact
- I like data
- I’m willing to earn a doctorate
Not sure? Take the free Environmental Science Professor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Plan for field hazards
- Use PPE when sampling
- Follow lab safety
- Protect student privacy