About This Role:

This is a 12-month tenure-track position with a 70% research and 30% extension appointment located at the Kansas State University Agricultural Research Center in Hays in the transition zone of the mixed-grass to shortgrass prairie region and the heart of the state’s progressive beef industry. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading an integrated and nationally recognized research program in beef production systems that addresses issues relevant to Kansas’ cow/calf producers (conception to harvest).  While candidates from a range of formal training disciplines (cow/calf management, ruminant nutrition, physiology, genetics, etc.) will be considered, experience with practical aspects of the beef industry will be needed to be successful. The successful candidate will supervise management of cattle and facilities in cooperation with the unit’s rangeland scientist, with primary research efforts focused on the efficient conversion of available forage resources into consumer acceptable products in an economically sustainable manner. The successful candidate will work closely with rangeland, forage, beef, and other scientists as well as graduate students within WKREC and other KSU locations. Expectations include extramural funding of research, timely publishing of peer-reviewed research, integrating findings into extension programming, and training of graduate students. The successful candidate will extend their research impact by working with an integrated KSU Beef Extension team. Extension activities may include, but are not limited to, development of publications and bulletins; support for agents and specialists; and communication and consultation with stakeholders both in person and through electronic means. The ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with stakeholders, agents, faculty, support personnel, and other departments is essential.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits 

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and promotes inclusion.  The University actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

Worksite Options:

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Earned doctorate in Animal Sciences or related discipline at time of employment.
• Demonstrated practical knowledge and experience with beef cattle.
• Academic achievement and publication record consistent with experience.
• Ability and desire to communicate effectively with stakeholders, extension agents, faculty, and support personnel.
• Demonstrated proficiency with oral and written communication in English.
• Commitment to work in a multi-cultural environment that fosters diversity, collegiality, and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with cattle on native range and multiple beef cattle industry production phases.
• Demonstrated potential and desire to seek grant proposals and obtain external funds.
• Demonstrated potential to develop effective, integrated, multidisciplinary, and collaborative research and extension programs.
• Demonstrated potential to function and lead in a team setting.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. A letter of application articulating experience or training relative to the qualifications for the position including statement of long-term interest, goals and objectives for applied research and extension in Kansas.
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
4. Names and contact information of four references

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening of applications begins on Feb 16, 2024, and continues until the position is filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.