Job Details

Type: Full-Time

Posted: 06/06/2025

Category: Environmental Science, Ecology, and Forestry; +2

Job Number: REQ_0000068113

Location: The Pennsylvania State University

Position Overview

The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Natural Resources and Conservation Practices.
This 36-week academic appointment includes 40% teaching and 60% research responsibilities.

The successful candidate will support interdisciplinary education and lead a nationally recognized research program in natural resources, conservation, and climate-resilient agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching (40%)

• Teach core courses in the Environmental Resource Management (ERM) major, such as:

  • ERM 412 – Resource Systems Analysis

  • ERM/WFS 450 – Wetland Conservation

  • ERM 499A – Foreign Studies/Study Abroad

• Develop and teach additional courses in Biological Engineering and General Education as assigned.

• Engage students through inclusive, high-impact learning experiences.

Research (60%)

• Develop a collaborative, externally funded research program addressing:

  • Effects of climate variability on water quality, soil health, and resource management.

  • Implementation of agricultural conservation practices at field and watershed scales.

  • Integration of soil, water, and crop management technologies for sustainable production.

• Collaborate with agencies such as USDA-NRCS, USDA-ARS, EPA, and Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

Qualifications

Required:

• Ph.D. in Agricultural, Biological, Civil, or Environmental Engineering or a related field.

• Demonstrated research and teaching experience integrating engineering, agroecology, hydrology, and climate science.

• Strong communication and leadership skills for interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and diverse teams.

• Completion of all degree requirements by the appointment date.

Preferred:

• Experience in climate change adaptation, conservation systems, or agroecosystem modeling.

• Evidence of successful grant acquisition, collaboration with industry or agencies, and student mentorship.

About the Department

The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) promotes global sustainability through research, education, and outreach in biological and agricultural systems.
The department supports programs in:

• Biological Engineering (BS)

• Agricultural and Biological Engineering (MS, Ph.D.)

• Agricultural and BioRenewable Systems Management (BS)

• BioRenewable Systems (MS, Ph.D.)

• Environmental Resource Management (Interdisciplinary Program)

More information: 🌐 www.abe.psu.edu

Application Instructions

Apply online at: 🔗 psu.jobs

Application Materials:

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vitae

3. Statement of research vision and philosophy

4. Statement of teaching vision and philosophy

5. Contact information for three references

📅 Priority consideration: Applications received by July 30, 2025
📩 Search Committee Contact:

• Dr. Cibin Raj – czr58@psu.edu

• Dr. Suat Irmak (Department Head) – sfi5068@psu.edu

Background Checks

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks per university policy.

Benefits

Penn State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Robust retirement plans

• 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children

• Generous paid time off and leave policies

Details: Penn State Benefits Page

Equal Opportunity and Diversity

Penn State is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.
We are committed to creating an environment of equity, respect, and belonging for all faculty, staff, and students.

Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Campus Safety

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Penn State publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASR).
The report includes crime statistics and policies regarding campus safety and can be reviewed here.