Assistant Research Professor

Position Specifics

The College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State University invites applications for a 48‑week, non‑tenure track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Research Professor with expertise in diseases of grapevines and potatoes and integrated crop management, and development of educational programming serving extension needs. This position has 60% extension, 25% research and 15% teaching responsibilities and will be located at the Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center (LERGREC).

The successful candidate will build a robust applied research program focused on integrated management of grapevine diseases significant to the area, the Lake Erie Grape Belt. The candidate is expected to partner with industry to test new disease control practices that are effective to the specific disease pressures of this area where grapes are grown under irrigation systems. The successful candidate will provide statewide leadership in extension supporting the disease management needs of the grape and potato industries in Pennsylvania, both important crops in the region.

Additionally, the candidate is expected to teach one course per year at the Penn State Behrend campus alternating an upper‑level undergraduate course in fungal biology, and a General Education inter‑domain course. The successful candidate is expected to obtain extramural support for their research and communicate research findings through peer‑reviewed publications and other effective means.

Applicants must submit a cover letter; a complete CV; a statement summarizing the applicant’s philosophy and plan for establishing a successful research and extension program; a teaching philosophy statement; and contact information for three references. Provide a statement on how you would contribute to creating and maintaining an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and employees.

A Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or a related field is required. Applicants should provide evidence of strong potential for conducting and publishing research, competitiveness for external research funding, and excellence in communication across a range of audiences. Experience in developing and delivering extension programs is preferred.

Candidates will be evaluated on their potential for publishing high‑impact work, obtaining extramural funding, excellence in instruction, and collaboration with other researchers at Penn State University.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. The generous 75% tuition discount is available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.