Assistant/Associate/Full Professor open-rank, Professor of Rural Sociologist/Human Geography

In November 2023, K-State launched the Kansas Water Institute to address water resource challenges. A Rural Sociologist/Human Geographer is sought to research and teach on social, cultural, economic, and environmental water issues, focusing on rur...

  • 520291
  • Manhattan
  • Sociology Anthropology & SocWk
  • Academic / Faculty - 9 month
  • Opening on: Aug 15 2025
  • Closing on: Nov 15 2025
  • Hybrid eligible

About This Role

In November 2023, K-State launched the Kansas Water Institute, interdisciplinary and interinstitutional initiative to elevate the research, teaching, and engagement necessary to tackle our most pressing water resource challenges. With funds from a state appropriation, the Kansas Water Institute is embarking on an interdisciplinary thematic recruitment strategy to enhance K-State’s water-related expertise.

This open rank position as a Rural Sociologist/Human Geographer involves conducting research and teaching with a focus on the social, cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics influencing water-related challenges in rural communities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fieldwork and expertise in mixed methods, such as interviews, surveys, and spatial analysis, to investigate rural community behaviors and the geographic dimensions of water issues. Responsibilities include mentoring and guiding students, fostering their development of research projects that explore key topics in rural sociology or human geography.

About Us

Welcome to the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work. We are a varied but interrelated set of disciplines that study our shared humanity. As a department, we help develop critical thinkers and strong social scientists while fostering a passion for understanding society. Sociology at Kansas State is a vibrant program focused on exploring the causes and consequences of important social issues. Our Anthropology Program equips students with the ability to identify and meet the challenges of the shifting cultural realities of our Nation and World. Social Workers help people deal with their relationships with others, and solve their personal, family, and community problems. The Criminology Program studies the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and the positive and negative aspects of our systematic responses to crime and delinquency.

Worksite Description

This position is Hybrid eligible. This position is eligible for hybrid worksite. Work is performed partially remote and partially on employer premises or designated assignment location.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Assistant Professor - Ph.D. in Sociology or Human Geography or appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D.
  • Associate Professor – Ph.D. in Sociology, Human Geography, or an appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D., and six or more years of academic experience and research, teaching and service record corresponding to appointment as Associate Professor. 
  • Professor – Ph.D. in Sociology, Human Geography, or an appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D., and ten or more years of academic experience, a national or international reputation, and research, teaching and service record corresponding to appointment as Professor.

The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Expertise in rural sociology with history of published and/or funded research with a focus on the social, cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics influencing water-related challenges in rural communities

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • CV
  • Letter of interest that outlines qualifications for the position

Application Window

Applications close on: November 15th, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

Salary commensurate and experience and level of appointment.

 

 

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Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

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

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:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.

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