Assistant Professor

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A public research university in Starkville seeks to fill a 9-month tenure-track position in Food Science starting August 16, 2026. The role entails teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, mentoring students, and conducting research with a focus on building a nationally recognized program. A doctoral degree in food science or related field and publication experience are required. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to vital educational and research initiatives in the field of food science.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in food science, microbiology, or closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Experience in proposal writing and publications in refereed journals.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Conduct research, seek extramural funding, and publish scholarly works.
• Perform departmental, college, university, and professional service.

Education

Doctoral degree in food science, microbiology, or closely related field

Job description

Job no: 510262
Position type: Full-Time 9-Month
Department: 012000 - Biochemistry Nutrition Health Promo
Location: Main Campus - Starkville, MS

Position Function

The Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion (BNHP) at Mississippi State University (MSU) seeks to fill a 9-month tenure-track position to begin August 16, 2026. The successful candidate will hold a 70% appointment in teaching through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and a 30% appointment in research through the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. The successful candidate will teach both undergraduate and graduate courses in food science and technology, food microbiology, food chemistry, food biochemistry, and/or Food Product Development. In addition, the candidate will be expected to develop a nationally recognized research program in their area through scholarship, extramural funding, and mentoring graduate students.

Area of Specialization

Food Science

Anticipated Appointment Date

August 16, 2026

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students
• Conduct research, seek extramural funding, and publish scholarly works
• Perform departmental, college, university, and professional service

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in food science, microbiology, or closely related field from an accredited institution
• Experience in proposal writing and publications in refereed journals

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

No unusual physical requirements. Requires no heavy lifting, and nearly all work is performed in a comfortable indoor facility.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].