Assistant Professor of Sustainable Agriculture

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The Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science at South Dakota State University invites applications to fill a nine-month, full-time, benefit eligible, tenure-track faculty position with research (75%) and Extension (25%) responsibilities. This position is supervised by the department head of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science and is open until filled. The Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science includes over 40 faculty whose expertise spans the fields of Agronomy, Entomology, Genetics, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Precision Agriculture, Seed Science, Soil Science, and Weed Science. The Department has a robust research program that consistently ranks at the top of departments at SDSU. Discovery and dissemination of science-based knowledge are core missions of the department. Our faculty Extension Specialists and Field Specialists provide an effective structure for meeting this mission. In academic programs, the department provides nationally competitive training for undergraduate students leading to B.S. degrees in Agronomy, Horticulture and Precision Agriculture. Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science also offers a strong graduate training environment leading to M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Plant Science and Biological Sciences.South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access. RESPONSIBILITIES: The incumbent is expected to develop an extramurally funded, innovative, nationally, and internationally recognized research program that includes basic and applied research to investigate the impact of regenerative agricultural practices on soil fertility, precision nutrient management, and soil health in agroecosystems. The candidate will work with various programs within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences to address local and regional agricultural and natural resource management needs of farmers and stakeholders while focusing on critical soil management objectives benefiting producers, consumers, and policy makers. Collaboration with state, federal and industry partners is expected. The research program is expected to document and deepen the understanding of the sustainable agricultural practices and their impact on ecosystem services that affect the profitability of crop production in South Dakota and the region. The successful individual is expected to perform outreach through state-wide travel, publication of articles and online media, creation of impact reports, and collaboration with state and regional Extension teams to deliver relevant programming.Undergraduate and graduate student mentoring is expected. Service expectations include participation in appropriate professional organizations and on departmental/college/University committees.  BENEFITS: We offer a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusions and access. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. South Dakota State University offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in Agronomy, Soil Science, or closely related discipline completed by the start date. Potential for scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals. Potential for success in competitive grant writing and leadership. Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills.  Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel. Postdoctoral research experience. 

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