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The Department of Horticultural Science is composed of 34 faculty. We deliver research, artistic design, innovative teaching, extension, and outreach associated with the production and utilization, ecology, breeding and basic biology of fruit, vegetable, flower, ornamental, and functional horticultural plants. Through constant evaluation and adjustment, we lead with partners to create a horticultural science hub that optimizes the role of plants in addressing local to global grand challenges. The department has robust certificate, associates, undergraduate, and graduate training programs, and an extension network that touches the 100 counties in NC.

North Carolina State University is the largest university in NC with over 25,000 undergraduate students and 10,000 graduate students and has been listed as the “best large employer” in North Carolina. NC State has historical strengths in agriculture, engineering, and the life sciences and has recently launched the Plant Science Initiative (PSI; cals.ncsu.edu/psi). The PSI seeks to bring the brightest minds in academia, government, and industry together to drive innovation that increases yields, creates new varieties, extends growing seasons, enhances agricultural and environmental sustainability and produces new and improved technology.

NC State is uniquely situated with over 100 ag biotech ventures of all sizes and USA headquarters for many of the world’s largest plant science companies nearby. Agriculture is the largest industry in NC and contributes over $90B annually. NC ranks 8th in the nation for total fruit and vegetable production, with a total value of $500m in vegetable production, and the third most diverse state with specialty crops. NC has a thriving vegetable industry and NC ranks in the top 10 nationally in production of fresh market cucumbers (#3), bell peppers (#5), cantaloupes & watermelons (#6), pumpkins & squash (#7) and cabbage & tomatoes (#8).

The Department of Horticulture Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University is pleased to announce recruitment for a tenure-track Assistant Professor with formal appointments in Extension (70%), Research (10%) and Teaching (20%). This position reports to the Department Head of Horticultural Science.

The position will develop an innovative extension, teaching and research program to advance the science and practice of vegetable production and sustainable horticulture, including organic agriculture. The incumbent will develop an extramural funded and nationally recognized program that will include training programs for agents, growers and affiliated industry partners; develop digital and printed production guides and extension publications; and foster relationships with grower associations and industry leaders to optimize program impacts. This position will manage primary extension responsibilities on solanaceous, cruciferous/leafy vegetables, and other vegetables (e.g. cucurbits, legumes) in the field and controlled environment/greenhouse systems. Opportunities exist to develop collaborations with campus and external partners to enhance black, indigenous, and people of color, and under-represented farmer success. Research will inform the extension program and help growers to innovate and improve their businesses and increase climate resilience. The incumbent will connect with university and external stakeholders to lead and partner in interdisciplinary collaborations. Expertise in extension and research will be translated into a vegetable production class (20-25 students) every year of the position. Opportunities for future innovation in teaching can be pursued depending on the candidate’s interest, student needs, and department priorities. The incumbent will provide service to professional societies and other organizations outside of the University as appropriate to their disciplinary area. Service to the programs and governance of the University, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the Department is also an expectation as requested or desired.

N.C. State is diverse because it is a community of individuals from varied backgrounds and demographic categories; it encourages, accepts, and values a diversity of people and ideas; it seeks to promote an environment where equity, respect, and understanding represent the norm in the campus climate; and it seeks to prepare entrepreneurs who are effective citizens of a global community. As such, you are expected to contribute to an environment that is welcoming of all groups.

Other duties as assigned and determined by the department head.

In addition to your application, please include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research accomplishments and interest, teaching philosophy, and the names, e-mail addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three (3) professional references.

Applicants are encouraged to include teaching evaluations if available (upload as “Other Document 1”) and in the cover letter or in a separate statement indicating how their program could contribute to enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NCSU.

NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.