Professor and Head

MSU Jobs • Starkville, MS

23d

About The Position

Mississippi State University (MSU) invites applications and nominations for the position of Head of the Department of Agricultural Science and Plant Protection. This is a full-time administrative role offering a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic and scientifically diverse department committed to excellence in research, Extension, and teaching within the Land-Grant mission. The department encompasses the disciplines of entomology, plant pathology, and weed science with a current total of 30 faculty and 35 full time staff. The department has an undergraduate program in Agricultural Science with 98 undergraduate and approximately 40 graduate students. Mississippi State University (MSU) invites applications and nominations for the position of Head of the Department of Agricultural Science and Plant Protection. This is a full-time administrative role offering a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic and scientifically diverse department committed to excellence in research, Extension, and teaching within the Land-Grant mission. The department encompasses the disciplines of entomology, plant pathology, and weed science with a current total of 30 faculty and 35 full time staff. The department has an undergraduate program in Agricultural Science with 98 undergraduate and approximately 40 graduate students.

Requirements

• Earned doctorate in entomology, plant pathology, weed science, agronomy, or a closely related field
• Distinguished record of leadership in research, teaching, and/or Extension
• Eligibility for appointment as a tenured faculty with graduate faculty status at MSU

Nice To Haves

• Experience navigating complex organizational structures and industry partnerships
• Demonstrated success in working with diverse constituency groups
• Strategic vision aligned with the Land-Grant mission

Responsibilities

• Foster a collaborative and inclusive departmental culture
• Provide strategic leadership across research, Extension, and teaching missions
• Represent the department to internal and external stakeholders, including civic and professional organizations
• Manage budgets, personnel, and resources according to University policies to support departmental goals
• Promote interdisciplinary initiatives and extramural funding opportunities
• Support curriculum development and programmatic excellence
• Advocate for faculty and staff development and performance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees