Job Description:

The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences is currently seeking an Assistant Professor for a 9-month tenure track (40% teaching, 60% research) position with an emphasis in applied animal behavior and well-being.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will be expected to develop a nationally recognized teaching and research program in their discipline of national and international recognition that contributes to and complements the existing research strengths of the department. Research responsibilities will be in the areas of human/animal bond, animal behavior, animal well-being, and auditing/assessment of animal well-being in production environments across livestock species. A strong emphasis will be placed on the demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, interact and collaborate with colleagues. A collaborative and collegial approach with faculty and staff in the department, college, and university and with external partners and stakeholders is essential while operating within the values of Mississippi State University and the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences.

The successful candidate will be expected to pursue and secure extramural funding in support of their research program. Research results will be communicated via stakeholder and end-user meetings, Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) bulletins, refereed journal articles, and other publications as appropriate. Teaching responsibilities will be determined based on departmental needs and include undergraduate and graduate courses with opportunities for new course development.

 Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to service through activities such as participation in department, college, and university committees and via service to appropriate professional associations. The successful candidate should be able to effectively advise undergraduate students and train graduate students.

This position will be based in Starkville, MS, but may require occasional travel to other MSU and partner locations as needed. The successful candidate will work cooperatively with faculty and staff based in the Research and Extension Centers as well as other MSU locations.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. in Animal Science or a closely related field. Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. in Animal Science or a close related field.  Candidate areas of interest may include but are not limited to various aspects of physiology (nutrition, exercise, reproduction, environmental) and/or interest in horse-human interaction. Candidates must have excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to foster a collaborative and collegial atmosphere.

Preferred Qualifications:

Professional experience and commitment to excellence in research and instruction and demonstrated successful research team collaborations are desired. Candidates with a demonstrated track record of grantsmanship and publishing in peer-reviewed journals are preferred. Experience managing student research projects, training students in research, and innovative classroom instruction are desired.

Application Procedure:

All applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu, and will be required to submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and transcripts of all degrees. Please apply at the following link: https://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/cw/en-us/job/510216/assistant-professor. Please include a statement of teaching and research philosophies. Names and contact information for 3 professional references are also required. Official transcripts for all degrees will be required from the successful candidate. Any social security numbers on requested transcripts or other applicant documents should be redacted. Inquires can be emailed to Dr. Clay Cavinder at cc2944@msstate.edu. Application reviews will begin March 1, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.