Sustainable Vegetable Production and Nutrition Systems Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University
Assistant Professor AN/12 month, tenure-track position 50% research/50% extension The Department of Horticulture (http://www.hrt.msu.edu) in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for an Assistant Professor, twelve-month tenure-track position (50% research, 50% extension) to conduct research and extension/outreach programs that promote production of vegetables while maintaining or enhancing environmental quality in Michigan and beyond. The incumbent will develop a nationally and internationally recognized program in vegetable crop nutrition and soil fertility management that builds collaboratively on MSUs strengths in vegetable production and sustainable cropping systems. Research should utilize both basic science and applied approaches while addressing the issues and opportunities facing the Michigan and Midwest vegetable industry. Other potential areas of research focus include development of integrative systems to optimize plant nutrition and soil health; efficient nutrient and water delivery systems tailored to precision agriculture, drip irrigation, microclimate modification or extended season cropping systems; rhizosphere dynamics; or interactions between cropping systems and food quality/human nutrition. The successful candidate will establish innovative research and outreach programs, secure competitive/extramural funding, publish in high quality refereed journals, advise and mentor students, provide leadership in state-wide vegetable extension programming (including development of educational materials and other outreach tools), establish strong ties with industry leaders and grower groups; and contribute to the on-going programs of MSUs Vegetable Extension Team. The salary is competitive and commensurate with the candidates experience. A health, dental and retirement benefits program is included. Qualifications: Required: PhD in horticulture, plant science, plant physiology, soil science or a related field Demonstrated capacity to conduct independent research Ability to work collaboratively with research and Extension teams Excellent oral and written communication skills Desired: Postdoctoral experience in plant nutrition, physiology and vegetable production Teaching, Extension, and team management experience Three or more years of vegetable production and research experience Plant Sciences at MSU: MSU is a global leader in basic and applied plant sciences, with over 150 faculty members engaged in research on nearly all aspects of crop production and plant science. MSU offers state-of-the-art field, greenhouse, growth chamber, and laboratory facilities to support diverse research and outreach interests. Application Procedure: Qualified applicants should submit a letter of application, a summary of research accomplishments and future research objectives, and a description of Extension/outreach interests and philosophy, a current CV, and contact information for at least three references online at https://jobs.msu.edu. Select Faculty/Academic Staff and apply to posting 0099 before February 28, 2015. Review of applications will begin March 1, 2015 and will continue until the position is filled. Questions can be directed to Dr. Eric Hanson, Search Committee Chair ([email protected]). Questions on submitting applications through https://jobs.msu.edu can be directed to [email protected]. MSU is an affirmative action, equal-opportunity employer. MSU is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. The University actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities.
