Assistant Professor

The Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering at Kansas State University seeks applicants with expertise in water quality and contaminant mitigation. Areas of interest include detecting and mitigating emerging c...

  • 520662
  • Manhattan
  • Carl Melinda Helwig Dpt BioAgE
  • Academic / Faculty - 9 month
  • Closing on: Dec 15 2025
  • On-site

About This Role

This position is one of several water-related thematic team hires that will join K-State across multiple departments. Each of these positions will hold a scholarly connection to the Kansas Water Institute and will join an interdisciplinary cohort of water-related faculty with the opportunity to collaborate on research, teaching, and engagement. The Kansas Water Institute develops and supports interdisciplinary research, teaching, and outreach on high-priority water resources problems and objectives identified through the state water plan. The institute also facilitates effective communication among water resource professionals and works to share and apply research results.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in environmental engineering, water quality, and/or wastewater treatment.
  • Establish a nationally recognized, externally funded research program in:
    • Detection and mitigation of traditional (e.g., nitrate and other nutrients, uranium) and emerging contaminants (PFAS, PPCPs, pesticides)
    • Sustainable wastewater treatment for nutrient recovery and reuse
    • Circular economy strategies for water and wastewater systems, and/or
    • Interfaces with agriculture and municipal systems for water sustainability
  • Collaborate across K-State and with the Kansas Water Institute.
  • Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Contribute to professional societies, outreach, and university service.

About Us

Kansas State University’s Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is the oldest and largest engineering program in Kansas, nationally recognized for excellence in education, research, and service. The college is committed to addressing critical societal challenges—including water sustainability and resilience—through innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Agricultural, Biological, Civil, or Environmental Engineering, or a closely related discipline by the time of appointment.
  • Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
  • Evidence of scholarly achievement and potential to secure external research funding.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

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:

  • University-level teaching experience.
  • Record of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Preferred licenses / registrations / certifications:

  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) licensure, or ability to pursue licensure.

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:

1. Cover letter addressing qualifications and interests.
2. Curriculum vitae.
3. Statements of teaching philosophy and research interests (1-2 pages each).
4. Contact information for at least three professional references.

Application Window

Applications close on: December 15, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

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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.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

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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