Assistant or Associate Professor

About This Role:

We are seeking applicants for a 12-month, tenure-track position (40% Teaching, 60% Research) at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor (commensurate with experience) that will contribute primarily to our teaching and research missions in dairy foods processing within the Animal Sciences and Industry Department (ASI). The ASI Department is a national leader in teaching, research and outreach focused on animal and food sciences. ASI is home to the undergraduate Food Science & Industry degree program, which is accredited through the Institute of Food Technologists. The successful individual will be expected to develop a nationally recognized, externally funded research program in dairy food processing that is linked with a dynamic graduate research program. Teaching responsibilities will include Dairy Foods Processing & Technology (ASI 608) and other coursework consistent with the program’s needs and the selected individual’s interests.  K-State is also home to the cross-disciplinary Food Science Institute (FSI) which provides many opportunities to participate in world-class interdisciplinary research, graduate training and teaching activities. Some of these opportunities involve agricultural security and sustainability, functional and healthy food systems, and the K-State Global Food Systems Initiative (https://www.k-state.edu/research/global-food/). Major facility construction and renovations are underway in the food/animal/grain science areas at K-State, including renovation of the K-State dairy processing plant, Call Hall Dairy Bar and research laboratories. Experience in creamery operations, fluid milk processing, and/or manufacture of dairy ingredients is desirable as the successful applicant will supervise the managers of these dairy foods facilities and use them in support of their program.

Position Description and Responsibilities: 

The person selected for this exciting position will:

• Lead a productive externally funded research program in dairy processing industry
• Develop a dynamic graduate research program
• Teach and advise students in the Food Science & Industry and Animal Sciences & Industry majors.
• Have opportunities to participate in online programs through the K-State Global Campus
• Engage in scholarly activities relevant to K-State’s Next-Gen strategic plan
• Promote K-State’s dairy and food processing/science emphases to stakeholders
• Provide oversight to the K-State dairy processing plant (creamery) and retail operations
• Help foster a spirit of diversity, inclusion and teamwork within a multicultural work environment

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University is a dynamic land-grant university located in beautiful Manhattan, KS (approximately 72,000 county population), with a current student population of approximately 20,000. The Department of Animal Sciences & Industry at Kansas State University is a world leader, known for its reputable research dedicated to food and animal agriculture. The Food Science program, both on-campus and distance components, is mature and provides extensive opportunities to collaborate across multiple campus groups with trans-disciplinary emphasis goals, along with interacting with an abundance of state, regional and national industry partners. Kansas has one of the fastest growing dairy industries in the country, with over 4,133 billion pounds of milk production in 2022, a rapidly expanding dairy herd, and currently contributes to over 28,000 direct and indirect Kansas jobs. The importance of agriculture is recognized by the guiding document for Kansas State University as it moves forward:  K-State’s Plan for Economic Prosperity in Kansas (https://www.k-state.edu/research/economic-prosperity/).  Foundational focus areas of global leadership for K-State are:

1. Food and Agricultural Systems Innovation
2. Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics
3. Biosecurity and Biodefense
4. K-State 105: Every Town a Gown

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 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.

Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work arrangements. Remote work agreements are required for all flexible work arrangements and are subject to review.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree (at time of employment) in Food Science, Food Engineering, Dairy Science, Animal Science, or related discipline
• Knowledge and experience in dairy foods processing and innovation
• Demonstrated potential to develop an impactful and relevant research program
• Aptitude and enthusiasm to teach and advise undergraduate and graduate students
• Effective written and oral communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in creamery operations, fluid milk processing, and manufacture of dairy ingredients
• Demonstrated academic publication record that is consistent with level of experience
• Evidence of being a successful team member and effective leader
• Commitment to the University’s land-grant mission and the K-State Next-Gen Strategic Plan https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team environment and advance the university’s commitment to collegiality, diversity, and inclusivity
• Applicability of scholarly activity towards K-State’s Plan for Economic Prosperity in Kansas

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. Cover letter to include an explanation of how your qualifications and professional interests align with the position
2. Curriculum vitae
3. A one-page statement of research plans and goals;
4. A one-page statement of teaching philosophy including philosophy of teaching and research
5. Copies of unofficial academic transcripts
6. Name and contact information for three professional references

For more information contact:

          Randall Phebus, Search Committee Chair

          Department of Animal Sciences & Industry   

          223 Call Hall

          phebus@ksu.edu

          785-532-1215

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins on October 29, 2023.

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.