Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Forest Health
The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University invites applications for an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in forest health with an expected start date of August 2024. This is a tenure-track, 12-month appointment, with 65% Extension and 35% research. We seek exceptional applicants with expertise in forest entomology or forest pathology to understand, mitigate, and educate current and future forest health issues. The successful candidate will perform educational functions of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) and develop a successful extramurally funded Extension program with related applied research on forest health with focus on forest insects and diseases.
Responsibilities
The successful candidate is expected to work independently and in collaboration with other faculty in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Regional Extension Agents, and other Auburn University faculty to: (1) develop and deliver Extension programs, in collaboration with Regional Extension Agents, through a variety of media including publications, web sites, distance learning, demonstrations, and other formats (2) Work with stakeholders to develop applied research to address the educational needs in Alabama and beyond, (3) Develop and deliver niche technical training and service programs for Regional Extension Agents (REAs), organizations, private sector, and federal agencies of Alabama and beyond, (4) secure extramural funding to support research and Extension programs, and (5) mentor graduate students and publish research in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
Minimum Qualifications
A PhD in forestry, forest pathology, forest entomology, forest pest/pathogen ecology, forest health or a related field, by the time of appointment. The successful candidate must demonstrate a compelling interest and capability to deliver science-based information to a variety of audiences. Excellent written, organizational and communication skills are required and a commitment to inclusion and diversity is essential. Ability to act creatively, confidently, and professionally when working with people from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, evidence of drive and initiative as demonstrated by personal experiences and previous employment, and a collaborative approach to working with others is required. Candidates must be willing and able to work closely with members of the Extension Forestry, Wildlife, and Natural Resource team, forest managers, communities, and natural resource technical service providers. Ability to travel, including a current unrestricted driver’s license, is also required. The candidate selected for this position must be able to meet eligibility requirements to work in the United States by the date appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the term of employment.
Desired Qualifications
Ideal candidates will have: (1) Extension experience and a strong track record for obtaining extramural funding and supervising graduate students, (2) A demonstrated track record of scholarly and extension publication, (3) Experience and expertise of southern forests is highly desired. (4) Applied integrated pest management knowledge in forest entomology and pathology is desired.
About Auburn: At Auburn, our work changes lives. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a premier public institution, Auburn University is dedicated to shaping the future of the people of Alabama, the nation, and the world through forward-thinking education, life-enhancing research, scholarship and selfless service. Auburn is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, community outreach, positive work environment, student engagement, and thriving community.
Application Submission
To apply please go to https://www.auemployment.com/postings/43010, complete the online form and upload the required application documents: (1) cover letter addressing the candidate’s interest and experience pertinent to the responsibilities of the position, (2) current curriculum vita, (3) vision statement for Extension program, (4) statement of research program, (5) copies of all graduate level academic transcripts, and (6) the names and contact information of at least three references. Review of applications will begin March 4, 2024 and will continue until a suitable candidate is hired. Please send inquiries to Dr. Adam Maggard, Chairperson, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Forest Health, by email adm0074@auburn.edu.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.