Assistant/Associate Professor, Food Oral Processing

Penn State University • University Park, PA

84d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Food Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a full-time, 36-week, tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor in the area of Food Oral Processing. We seek to expand and strengthen our existing capacity in dynamic, interdisciplinary research on the human-food interface. The position aligns with Penn State's mission of fostering cutting-edge research, promoting economic growth, and providing education that directly benefits the agricultural and food sectors in Pennsylvania and beyond.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, Nutrition, or a related field.
• A record of high-quality research focused on Food Oral Processing, with demonstrated potential for or evidence of securing extramural funding.
• Strong commitment to teaching excellence at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Nice To Haves

• Postdoctoral experience or prior faculty experience in food science, food engineering, nutrition, or a related discipline.
• A track record of industry engagement or technology transfer.
• Experience in innovative teaching methods, including but not limited to online learning platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop a nationally and internationally recognized, externally funded research program.
• Conduct research addressing fundamental and/or applied aspects of how food structure, texture, and composition interact with human oral physiology during eating.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams working at the intersection of food science, sensory and consumer science, nutrition, physiology, processing, engineering, and public health.
• Teach a 3-credit undergraduate course in FDSC aligned with expertise.
• Develop a new 3-credit graduate course that aligns with area of expertise and program needs.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students and support the department's curriculum development.
• Participate in departmental, college, and university committees, professional organizations, and community outreach activities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree