Professor of Environmental and Science Education

The Professor of Environmental and Science Education is responsible for research, development as well as teacher education in the field of Science Education. The professor’s role includes applying best practices in science teacher education and contributing to the development of related study programmes. Teaching and supervision are provided in the Integrated Natural Sciences BA, Science Teacher MA, and Educational Sciences PhD programmes (in areas related to Environmental and Science Education).

In addition, the professor contributes to the development and delivery of micro-credentials related to sustainable development and science education.

The strategic tasks of the professorship include:

• development and outreach activities to increase prospective students’ interest in science, science education, and sustainability of the natural environment, at TU;
• development of a proficient base of testing tools for teaching;
• creation and implementation of innovative study methods;
• development of teacher education programme to ensure state-of-the-art preparation for future teachers;
• promotion of teacher education among potential students to ensure the pipeline of young teachers and the sustainability of the field;
• collaboration and networking in the field of didactics with other universities in Estonia and abroad;
• applying for international research and development projects.

The professor’s research area is Science Education, including Education for Sustainable Development of Natural Environment.

Doctoral degree or equal qualification in the field of Natural Sciences or in Educational Sciences (Science Education).

A candidate shall meet the requirements for the position of a professor established in Annexes 2, 9 and 10 to the Employment Relations Rules.

Given the specifics of the field, the following competences are required:

• familiarity with trends in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and demonstrated integration of ICT (including AI) into teaching;
• at least three years of practical experience in a school or higher education institution (e.g. teaching or conducting R&D activities);
• experience managing R&D projects;
• at least 3 scientific publications in the field of Science Education last 5 years;
• participation in a research conference with a 3 presentation within the past five years.
• preferably experience in the development and/or piloting of new learning materials;
• preferably management experience in an educational institution or mentoring experience in a school;

To apply, please send the application documents required in English to participate in the call for applications for academic positions announced no later than 22 May 2026 by clicking on the "Apply now" button.

If you have any questions about the vacancy, please contact Tiina Aavik, Head of Administration, School of Natural Sciences and Health, e-mail: tiina.aavik@tlu.ee; for organisational questions konkurss@tlu.ee.

By default, successful candidates are appointed at the Associate Professor level. Candidates wishing to be considered for appointment as Professor must submit evidence demonstrating that they meet the requirements for this level, including proven experience in leading a research team.

The expected levels of qualifications, experience and performance are specified in Annexes 9 and 10 of Tallinn University’s Employment Regulations.

• an interesting and responsible position in an academic and international environment;
• a professional and supportive team;
• diverse opportunities for professional development and self-improvement;
• access to health and sports activities on preferential terms;
• 56 calendar days of annual leave;
• 5 paid days off per year for significant life events, health promotion, or voluntary work.