Assistant/Associate Professor of Animal Growth & Muscle Biology

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the agricultural sector is seeking a dedicated Assistant/Associate Professor of Animal Growth & Muscle Biology. This exciting role involves leading research on muscle development and meat quality while engaging in teaching and mentoring at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The successful candidate will work within a renowned department, contributing to vital research and educational programs that impact the livestock industry. Join a team that values diversity and excellence in research and education, and help shape the future of animal science.

Benefits

Attractive benefits package

Competitive salary

Support for diversity and inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in Animal Science or related field.
• Strong record of academic outputs and potential for funding.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead research program on animal growth and muscle biology.
• Mentor graduate students and teach undergraduate courses.

Skills

Animal Science

Muscle Biology

Meat Science

Research Skills

Teaching Skills

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Leadership Skills

Education

Ph.D. in Animal Science

Ph.D. in Muscle Biology

Ph.D. in Meat Science

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.

• NOT a current employee or student? Please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Assistant/Associate Professor of Animal Growth & Muscle Biology

The Pennsylvania poultry industry ranks 4th, and the pork industry ranks 12th in U.S. production. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, meat, poultry, and fish products in the state generate $4.3 billion in annual sales. Nearly 70% of Pennsylvania's agriculture income is from livestock and related products. The Department of Animal Science at Penn State University, University Park, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Animal Growth and Muscle Biology, with a 75% research and 25% teaching focus. This is a full-time, 36-week appointment.

The successful candidate will develop and lead an externally funded research program on animal growth and muscle biology, including areas such as muscle development, growth regulation, meat quality, genetic and nutritional influences, and muscle foods, including meat science, food safety, and biosecurity.

The candidate will mentor graduate students, supervise research, and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in animal science, focusing on animal growth and muscle biology. Courses may include swine production management, an undergraduate course in animal growth and development, and a graduate course in muscle growth and development, depending on expertise and departmental needs.

Engagement in service and professional activities within and outside the department is expected. The candidate should demonstrate excellent communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. The department values candidates who will contribute to diversity and excellence through their research and education efforts.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Animal Science, Muscle Biology, Meat Science, or a closely related field, with all degree requirements completed by the appointment date. A strong record of academic outputs, potential for external funding, instructional experience, and a research plan focused on muscle growth impacting meat quality are required. Preference is given to candidates with experience in swine management and pork production with a focus on meat quality.

The Department of Animal Science at Penn State, with 34 faculty members, is home to renowned programs in nutrition, reproduction, physiology, and genetics. Facilities include a USDA-inspected meat laboratory supporting teaching, research, and extension activities, along with research facilities for poultry, swine, dairy, beef, sheep, and deer.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. An attractive benefits package is available. Employment is contingent upon successful background checks.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter, teaching philosophy, and contact information for at least three references. Include evidence of commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Review begins March 17, 2025, and continues until filled. For questions, contact Dr. Lisa Holden at [e-mail].

Apply online at https://hr.psu.edu/careers using job REQ_0000063378.

Penn State is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, valuing individual uniqueness and fostering a culture of inclusivity to support community members.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Act and Pennsylvania law, Penn State publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, available here. Employment requires successful background checks.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Contact 814-865-1473 if you need assistance with the application process due to a disability.