We're Hiring!

Position Function:

The Department of Agricultural Science and Plant Protection (ASPP) at Mississippi State University seeks to fill a full-time, 12-month Assistant Professor position in Weed Science based in Starkville on the main campus. The position will carry a 100% Extension, tenure-track appointment and will provide statewide leadership for science-based weed management in all major row crops grown in Mississippi, complementing existing Weed Science programs. The program will serve county Extension personnel, producers, consultants, agricultural retailers, pesticide applicators, industry, agencies, and additional stakeholders.

Salary Grade:  UC

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges.  For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

Department Profile:

The Department of Agricultural Science and Plant Protection has academic, research, and Extension education missions within the land-grant tradition. The department includes expertise in entomology, plant pathology, weed science, and interdisciplinary agricultural science and supports undergraduate, graduate, research, and statewide Extension programs.

Area of Specialization:

Extension Row Crop Weed Scientist

Anticipated Appointment Date:

May 1, 2027. 

Tenure Track Status:

Yes. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will develop and lead an applied Extension Weed Science program responsive to Mississippi stakeholder needs. Responsibilities will include integrated weed management; herbicide stewardship and resistance management; diagnosis and response to emerging weed control problems; county agent training; field demonstrations; Extension publications and digital resources; peer-reviewed publications; and collaboration with state, regional, and national partners. The incumbent will conduct applied research and field demonstrations to support science-based Extension suggestions and will pursue external funding to strengthen the program. Close collaboration with ASPP Weed Science faculty, county Extension personnel, research and Extension centers, commodity groups, consultants, agricultural retailers, and industry is expected. Graduate and undergraduate student mentoring, guest instruction, committee service, and additional academic contributions are expected.

Minimum Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in Weed Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, or a closely related field with substantial training in weed management is required by the date of appointment (or “all but dissertation” completed and graduation imminent). Candidates must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to translate research-based information into effective Extension education and suggestions for agricultural audiences.

ABDs or degree pending considered (all but DISS):

Yes. 

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in Extension or applied outreach; demonstrated expertise in integrated weed management, herbicide resistance, herbicide stewardship, agronomic crop production, or other weed-management systems relevant to Mississippi; experience working with county agents, producers, consultants, agricultural retailers, and industry; evidence of multidisciplinary collaboration; experience obtaining extramural support; and a record of effective educational communication.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to develop and evaluate Extension programs; communicate technical information to diverse audiences; diagnose field weed-management problems; work effectively in interdisciplinary teams; coordinate statewide activities; manage multiple projects and deadlines; and build productive relationships with Extension personnel and agricultural stakeholders.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Frequent travel within Mississippi and outdoor field work are expected. Duties may include work in hot and humid conditions, walking over uneven agricultural terrain, participation in field days and demonstrations, working with agricultural equipment, and movement of field or demonstration materials.

Instructions for Applying:

Link to apply:  http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/

Applications must be submitted through the Human Resources Management website at
https://www.jobs.msstate.edu by completing the professional application and submitting a cover letter, current curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy and research interests, copies of up to three relevant publications, contact information for three references, and a current transcript. Any social numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online. An official transcript will be required if selected for an interview. For additional questions, please contact Swayze Hollenhead at sh1270@msstate.edu.

Screening Date:

October 8, 2026, until filled. 

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, (662) 325-5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.