Assistant/Associate Professor (Horticulture)

Louisiana State University

105d

About The Position

This is a tenure track position (25 % research; 75 % teaching) at the LSU AgCenter Northwest Region, primarily focused on production, processing, and marketing of horticulture food and ornamental crops in both urban and rural environments. Responsibilities include managing the station's greenhouse tomato operation and other greenhouse crops, cut-flower, fruit and vegetable production, varietal development, hydroponics, water quality, organic production, and sustainable horticulture. The position will support Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service (LCES) horticulture programs and develop a regional extension program focusing on horticulture production systems in Northwest Louisiana. The successful candidate will work with advisory committees and horticulture agents to identify stakeholder needs, develop responsive programs, and assess program impact. The role includes conducting research to maximize production efficiencies and participating in multi-disciplinary research initiatives. Results should be published in peer-reviewed journals, and securing extramural funding is essential. Participation in committees and continued professional development is expected.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in horticulture, agronomy, or closely related field.
• Experience in extension programming for urban and rural horticulture.
• Experience in greenhouse operation and production.
• Good interpersonal skills and leadership abilities.
• Effective communication skills with diverse audiences.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in vegetable and fruit production.
• Development of scholarly articles and educational curricula.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a regional extension program focusing on horticulture production systems.
• Manage the greenhouse tomato operation and other greenhouse crops.
• Conduct research on horticulture production systems.
• Work with advisory committees and horticulture agents to identify stakeholder needs.
• Deliver programming for commercial scale operations and small scale production systems.
• Prepare a strategic plan for educational programming emphasizing production interests.
• Communicate LSU AgCenter recommendations through various media.
• Participate in regional, departmental, and campus committees.
• Secure extramural funding for research and extension programs.

Benefits

• Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Retirement options.
• Multiple medical insurance options.
• Supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, etc.).
• Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan.
• University holidays (14 per year).
• Generous annual and sick leave benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Possible educational leave and tuition exemption.

What This Job Offers

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