Assistant Professor in Innovative Swine Systems

Position Title:
Assistant Professor in Innovative Swine Systems

Appointment Type:
Faculty

Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Department of Animal Science in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa seeks applicants for a 12-month tenure-track Assistant Professor in innovative swine systems. This position will have an emphasis on integrating precision technologies and/or data science/modeling to maximize production efficiency, sustainability, and animal health. Position responsibilities are approximately 45% in research, 50% in extension, and 5% in institutional service. It is expected that responsibilities in these areas are closely supportive of each other. The successful candidate will be expected to develop and maintain a nationally recognized research and extension program. Position expertise is open, including but not limited to data science, animal science disciplines, sustainability, or precision swine farming. This position is expected to train students, and work closely with the Iowa and U.S. swine industries, to ensure an impact on all segments of the production system. The candidate is also expected to be a contributing member to the Department of Animal Science, the Iowa Pork Industry Center, and Agriculture and Natural Resources extension at Iowa State University.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in animal science or a related discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:

•  Experience in extension programming that integrates data science/modeling and/or precision technologies into practice

• Scholarly publication record in swine systems research

• Experience working in a team-based, collaborative environment to solve problems

• Success in securing extramural funding

• Experience in swine production systems

• Experience with the pork industry to advance sustainable pork production

Department/Program & College Description:

The Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University is a recognized leader in its field, both nationally and internationally, with a balanced emphasis on research, teaching, and extension. The Department enjoys strong support and interactions with the livestock industries in the State, in particular with the swine industry, which is the largest in the US. Its collegial environment, embedded in a strong livestock industry, makes the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University an excellent base for faculty interested in pursuing a rewarding and impactful career in the animal sciences.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Iowa State University is one of the world’s leading institutions of agriculture, with more than 160 years of leadership in science, education, and extension. The College educates future leaders, conducts mission-oriented research, and shares new knowledge for the betterment of Iowa and the world. Iowa State plays a leading role in meeting the ever-growing demand for highly qualified students who will become the next generation of industry leaders and educators in Iowa, the nation, and the world.  Offering expert animal science training, research and engagement from the Department of Animal Science and CALS is critical to continuing the university’s mission.

The state of Iowa leads national pork production accounting for ~18% of all sows and as much as 30% of all pigs are grown and harvested in Iowa, providing a significant market for Midwest cereal grain production. Currently, ~25% of pork produced in the US is exported, being one of the few commodities for which the U.S. has an established trade surplus with significant opportunity for growth. Based on a 2018 economic analysis, pork production and related economic activity in Iowa contributes $36.7 B in sales of which $12.2 B is added value beyond the cost of inputs ($25.5 B including $8.3 B in labor income (141,813 jobs) resulting in $0.76 B in state and local taxes and $1.56 B in federal taxes. If Iowa were a country, it would be the third largest pork production country in the world, behind the U.S. and China. The industry in Iowa is dynamic, with many independent producers and larger, integrated producers.

Department Unit/Website:

 https://www.ans.iastate.edu/

Proposed Start Date:
August 16, 2024

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” at www.iastate.edu and complete the Employment Application. Applicants must be prepared to submit:

1) A cover letter addressing the required and preferred qualifications and include a statement of extension and research interests and philosophies including a clear vision for this position.

2) A curriculum vitae.

3) Names and complete contact information for 3-5 references.

For guaranteed consideration, all application materials must be received by February 15, 2024.

For more information, contact Dr. Anna Johnson, search committee chair at [email protected] or 515-294-2098 or Dr. Jason Ross, Department Chair, at [email protected] or 515-294-2160. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State University is committed to fostering a workplace of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value. Our Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans;
• Generous leave plans;
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa);
• Life insurance and long-term disability;
• Flexible Spending Accounts;
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts;
• Employee Assistance Program;
• Wellbeing program.

Original Posting Date:
January 10, 2024

Posting Close Date:

Job Requisition Number:
R13798