Professor Food Science Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

The College of Agriculture at Kansas State University seeks a Department Head to provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. This is a 12-month, full-time, on-site appointment.

The Department Head provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. This position advances the department’s mission within Kansas State University as a land-grant institution, supporting excellence in teaching, research, and extension. The Department Head works collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, industry partners, and university leadership to strengthen programs, expand impact, and position the department for future success.
The Department of Animal Sciences and Industry is a large, comprehensive academic unit with national reach and impact. The department serves more than 1,200 undergraduate and nearly 60 graduate students, with strong placement outcomes exceeding 95% employment or continued education after graduation. Supported by approximately 50 faculty members, the department integrates teaching, research, and extension to address critical needs in animal agriculture and food systems. Academic programs span multiple undergraduate options and specialized certificates, covering disciplines such as animal health, nutrition, breeding and genetics, physiology, dairy product processing, and meat science. The department’s extensive facilities include numerous species‑specific teaching and research units—beef, dairy, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, and equine—located near campus, as well as modern laboratories and food processing facilities that support applied learning and cutting‑edge research. Together, this breadth of programs, people, and infrastructure positions the department as a leader in preparing students and advancing science to support a safe, efficient, and innovative animal and food production system.

As part of Kansas State University, a comprehensive R1, land‑grant institution, the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry is devoted to excellence in teaching, research, extension, and engagement. The Department is fully committed to advancing the University’s land‑grant mission and its vision to become a Next‑Generation Land‑Grant University. As the nation’s first operational land‑grant university, K‑State has always put agriculture central to the student experience, research and application of knowledge. Throughout its history, the College of Agriculture has remained true to its land‑grant mission, serving Kansas, the United States and the world by providing top‑level agricultural, food and natural resources research, instruction and outreach to inform decisions and ensure safe, affordable, abundant and nutritious food for all.

• Earned doctorate in animal sciences or a closely related field.
• Record of scholarly achievement consistent with appointment as a tenured full professor in the department.
• Demonstrated experience in leadership, administration, or program management.
• Evidence of success within a land‑grant or comparable allied industry environment.

• Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to interdisciplinary programs or initiatives.
• Understanding of teaching, research, and extension roles in the land‑grant mission.
• Success in securing extramural funding or developing externally supported programs.
• Experience with budget management, personnel supervision, and strategic planning.
• Established relationships or engagement with animal agriculture industries or stakeholder groups.
• Experience supporting student success initiatives, including recruitment, retention, and career placement.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholder groups.

1. Letter of interest that addresses the applicant’s vision, administrative philosophy, and qualifications
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Names, mailing addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references

Applications close on: August 7, 2026

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well‑being and work‑life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visitour? benefits overview page.

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law.

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives.

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K‑State’s background check policy.