Assistant Professor, Crop Production

The Agronomy Department at Kansas State University is seeking an Assistant Professor for a 12-month tenure-track position in Crop Production with an appointment of 70% research and 30% teaching. This individual will provide leadership in planning and conducting a multidisciplinary field-based research program focused on developing and managing crop production systems that promote efficient use of resources and maximize farm profitability across Kansas. Education and integration of new technologies and tools should be a significant component of the program.

Research should focus on both irrigated and rainfed agriculture to maximize resource use efficiency and yield and profitability of crops (traditional and alternative) that fit crop production systems across Kansas. Research should encompass new developments, tools, and advanced techniques in crop production management.

Primary teaching responsibilities include Crop Growth and Development (AGRON 360) at the undergraduate level and Cropping Systems (AGRON 640) at the undergraduate/graduate level. Both are hands-on experiential courses, and AGRON 360 has an outdoor laboratory at the on-campus farm. There is an opportunity to develop a graduate course in the candidate's area of interest. Additional expectations include working with and mentoring undergraduate students in their academic programs.

Numerous opportunities exist for collaboration with research and extension personnel both on and off campus and in our network of experiment fields, and with private industry and commodity organizations to develop sustainable and efficient cropping systems. Complementary expertise at K-state includes centers for digital agriculture (ID3A (https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/innovation-and-partnerships/interdisciplinary-institutes/digital-ag-advanced-analytics/) and for water resources (KWI (https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/innovation-and-partnerships/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/).

Securing extramural grant funds from state, regional, federal agencies, and industry is expected. Other expectations include conducting scholarly research, training and mentoring graduate students, publishing in refereed journals, and presenting at scientific community, commodity commission, and industry meetings.

The Department of Agronomy was established in 1906 to advance agricultural practices in Kansas. Throughout its history, the Department has significantly contributed to transforming Kansas's natural resources into the high standard of living enjoyed by its residents. Together with the Research and Extension Centers, provides statewide leadership for teaching, research, and extension activities in plant breeding, crop production, range science, soil science, and weed sciences, and makes significant contributions to genetics, water science, and environmental sciences.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in agronomy, crop science, or a closely related field at the time of the appointment.
• Field research experience in agronomic crop production systems.
• Ability to independently conceive, plan, and implement field research.
• Proven ability to publish research results in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with current career level.
• Strong commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching and student mentoring.
• Strong potential for securing extramural funding.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in crop production systems relevant to Kansas.
• Knowledge of new technologies and tools to develop and communicate crop management strategies in response to evolving environments and management practices.
• Demonstrate experience in grant writing and obtaining extramural funding.
• Demonstrate experience and effectiveness in graduate/undergraduate teaching and mentoring.

Additional Role Information:

• A valid driver's license is required.

Sponsorship eligibility:

• This position is eligible for sponsorship

Applicants should complete the application process through K-State's PageUp recruiting system at https://careers.k-state.edu and upload the following:

• Letter of application articulating interest in the position and experience or training relevant to the qualifications for the position
• Statement of research interest and vision (two-page limit)
• Statement of teaching interest and philosophy (one-page limit),
• Curriculum vitae
• Graduate transcripts
• Names and contact information of three references

Inquiries about the position should be directed to the search committee chair, Anita Dille, at dieleman@ksu.edu with subject line: Crop Production Faculty Search, or phone: 785-293-2393.

Applications close on: March 29, 2026

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