Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

About The Position

The Department of Plant Science in the College of Agriculture Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University is hiring an Assistant/Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science . RESPONSIBILITIES : The Pennsylvania State University is pleased to invite qualified applicants to apply for an Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science position. This is a full-time (9-month) tenure-track faculty position in the Department of Plant Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences with a 50% teaching, 25% research and 25% extension appointment. The successful candidate will specialize in turfgrass science and bring expertise that complements and enhances the strengths of the current faculty. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, turfgrass breeding, turf pathology, soil and nutrient management, water management, root biology and physiology, and implementation of agricultural technologies of all types. The candidate will teach four classes in turfgrass science subjects related to their area of expertise to students in the resident baccalaureate program, as well as online classes through Penn State’s World Campus. Courses may include Introduction to Turfgrass Science, Turfgrass Cultural Systems, Turfgrass Physiology, and Pest Management. Additional courses that contribute to the departmental teaching program in areas related to the candidate’s disciplinary strengths may also be taught. Recruitment and advising of undergraduate and graduate students, as well as interaction with the turfgrass industry through an extension program that addresses practitioner needs, are expected. The successful candidate will engage in collaborative and interdisciplinary projects with other faculty at Penn State, as well as with plant scientists at regional and national levels, to develop a research program supported by extramural funding. This research program should lead to improved and sustainable turfgrass systems that foster environmental and economic resilience.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in turfgrass science, soil science, plant physiology, or a related field is required.
The candidate must demonstrate disciplinary expertise in a field relevant to turfgrass science, with the ability and desire to address problems within the context of turfgrass systems.
Candidates must possess effective communication skills (verbal and written), teaching skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and clientele.
The candidate must be organized and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
An ability to engage professionally with our population of faculty, staff, and students across the university is required.
A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Responsibilities

Specialize in turfgrass science and bring expertise that complements and enhances the strengths of the current faculty.
Teach four classes in turfgrass science subjects related to their area of expertise to students in the resident baccalaureate program, as well as online classes through Penn State’s World Campus.
Recruitment and advising of undergraduate and graduate students
Interaction with the turfgrass industry through an extension program that addresses practitioner needs
Engage in collaborative and interdisciplinary projects with other faculty at Penn State, as well as with plant scientists at regional and national levels, to develop a research program supported by extramural funding.
Develop a research program that leads to improved and sustainable turfgrass systems that foster environmental and economic resilience.

Benefits

An excellent benefits package includes health, dental, and retirement contributions.
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.
One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

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