The Agronomy Department at Kansas State University is seeking an Assistant Professor to develop an innovative extension program in Range Management aiming to enhance the profitability, sustainability, resilience, and ecosystem services provided by the over 14.6 million acres of permanent grasslands in Kansas—or 40% of the land area. Kansas rangeland is integral to the state’s thriving livestock industry. Responsibilities include developing an integrated extension and applied research program to generate and deliver information on invasive species management, prescribed burning, and grazing management on rangeland and perennial tame pasture. The successful individual will develop a broad program designed to serve the needs of Kansas ranchers and range stewards, and collaborate broadly with people in agronomic, animal, economic, and ecological disciplines.
Collaboration with research and extension faculty across Kansas and participation in multi-disciplinary, regional, or national initiatives are expected, as well as cooperation and coordination with the numerous rangeland-focused organizations and agencies to achieve common goals. Training and supporting professional development of agricultural and natural resources extension agents is expected.
The presence of a large and diverse community of grassland scientists with the Konza Prairie Biological Station as well as Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine faculty will provide ample opportunity for cross-disciplinary collaboration. The incumbent is expected to work in concert with the other range scientists in the department and at the western and eastern Kansas research centers. The incumbent would be expected to develop an externally funded extension and research program that includes the training of graduate and undergraduate students, dissemination of results through extension publications, popular press, and social media, and the publication of research in peer-reviewed journals. The candidate is encouraged to innovate with new and emerging technology in research and to engage with extension learners. The candidate must be able to work in a multicultural setting and create an environment that fosters collegiality, diversity, and teamwork
Our faculty and staff are leading the charge in groundbreaking research and technology for agriculture. By combining classroom, lab, and field experiences, we encourage learning and knowledge across disciplines. Join us and help move agronomy into the future.
This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.
Minimum Qualifications:
· Ph.D. in range science, range ecology, wildland management, grassland ecology, or related field, with extensive experience in rangeland management. · Commitment to extension education at the university level.
· Commitment to supporting the Kansas livestock and meat industry. · Proven ability to publish research results in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with current career level, and strong potential for securing extramural funding.
· Committed to graduate student mentoring and teaching.
· Excellent oral and written communication skills and a commitment to advancing diversity in the department.
Preferred Qualifications:
· Experience in the control of invasive plant species through fire, chemical, or mechanical methods.
· Familiarity with Great Plains rangeland agriculture and livestock systems.
· Experience leading or working as part of an interdisciplinary team.
· Demonstrated experience in grant writing and obtaining extramural funding.
· Demonstrated skills to effectively use electronic media to communicate technical information
To apply send a letter of application, articulating interest in the position and experience or training relative to the qualifications for the position, a statement of extension philosophy (two-page limit), a statement of research interests (two-page limit), a full curriculum vitae, graduate transcripts, and the names, e-mails and phone number of three references. Inquiries about the position should be directed to the search committee chair, DeAnn Presley, at deann@ksu.edu with subject line: Range Management Extension/Research Faculty Search, or telephone: 785-313-4193
For best consideration, apply by January 15, 2025.
$90,000 - $100,000
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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.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
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.
Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.
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