Assistant Professor - DIH Climate Resiliency and Forage Production

Assistant Professor - DIH Climate Resiliency and Forage Production

The Department of Plant and Earth Science in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences is seeking a full-time, nine-month tenure track faculty position (60% research and 40% teaching) at the rank of Assistant Professor to support our Crop and Soil Science Program. The position is funded by the Wisconsin Dairy Innovation Hub. The teaching load for this 40% teaching appointment will be approximately five (5) credit hours per semester, or ten (10) credit hours per academic year (the standard full-time teaching load is 12 credit hours per semester or 24 credit hours per academic year).

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong interest in forage production research for the dairy industry; have an ability to conduct applied research on forage crop production systems for the dairy industry; and be committed to excellence in teaching at our primarily undergraduate institution. Opportunities exist for optional summer employment through research grants, teaching and other funding sources. Expected appointment start date:
January 7, 2027.

Key job responsibilities include:

• Develop an applied research program focusing on forage production related to the U.S. dairy industry.
• Communicate research results to diverse audiences through forums such as professional scientific meetings, referred publications, dairy industry groups, and local producer groups.
• Develop collaborations and networks across the dairy industry, within local and state government, and throughout the Wisconsin Dairy Innovation Hub.
• Secure extramural funding sufficient to sustain a vibrant research program that includes the training and mentoring of undergraduate research students.
• Develop and teach undergraduate courses in forage crop production, pasture production, and introductory plant science courses plus additional courses in the Crop Science discipline based on the successful candidate's educational background and departmental needs.
• Develop innovative, student-centered courses and experiences that engage learners; regularly assess and revise curriculum to meet the evolving needs of Crop and Soil Science Program.
• Advise undergraduate students and facilitate independent studies, internships and other high-impact learning experiences.
• Advise co-curricular activities including student organizations.
• Participate in university service and shared governance at the department, college, and university levels.

Required qualifications include:

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Plant Science or related field. Applicants who have finished coursework and are still working on degree requirements may be considered for a conditional appointment and must complete their program within one year of the date of employment.
• Record of scholarship including peer-reviewed publications in crop production research.
• Strong interest and desire to teach undergraduate courses.
• Ability to effectively communicate to diverse audiences and commitment to working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience with on-farm forage production research related to the U.S. dairy industry.
• Documented successful undergraduate teaching in the Crop Science discipline including forage crop production and introductory plant science, teaching assistantships, or formal training for teaching in higher education.
• Experience with advising, mentoring, or supervising undergraduate students.
• Professional or dairy industry experience and/or connections.
• Record of success in obtaining grant funding.

To apply, please submit the following online at Career Opportunities:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Unofficial Transcripts
• Letter of interest specifying qualifications and experience (cover letter)
• A two-part statement, not to exceed 3 pages, describing vision and priorities for teaching and research at a predominantly undergraduate institution
• Names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of at least three references who can specifically comment upon your teaching ability, experience and professional preparation (references)

Inquiries should be addressed to:
Dr. Veronica Justen, Plant and Earth Science Department Chair, veronica.justen. Final date to receive applications:
Initial review of applications will begin upon receipt. For full consideration, applicants should submit all required materials on or before September 18, 2026.