Turf Science Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

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POSITION SPECIFICS
The Department of Plant Science in the College of Agriculture Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University is hiring an Assistant/Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Pennsylvania State University is pleased to invite qualified applicants to apply for an Associate/Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science position. This is a full-time (9-month) tenure-track faculty position in the Department of Plant Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences with a 50% teaching, 25% research and 25% extension appointment. The successful candidate will specialize in turfgrass science and bring expertise that complements and enhances the strengths of the current faculty. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, turfgrass breeding, turf pathology, soil and nutrient management, water management, root biology and physiology, and implementation of agricultural technologies of all types. The candidate will teach four classes in turfgrass science subjects related to their area of expertise to students in the resident baccalaureate program, as well as online classes through Penn State's World Campus. Courses may include Introduction to Turfgrass Science, Turfgrass Cultural Systems, Turfgrass Physiology, and Pest Management. Additional courses that contribute to the departmental teaching program in areas related to the candidate's disciplinary strengths may also be taught. Recruitment and advising of undergraduate and graduate students, as well as interaction with the turfgrass industry through an extension program that addresses practitioner needs, are expected. The successful candidate will engage in collaborative and interdisciplinary projects with other faculty at Penn State, as well as with plant scientists at regional and national levels, to develop a research program supported by extramural funding. This research program should lead to improved and sustainable turfgrass systems that foster environmental and economic resilience.
QUALIFICATIONS:
A Ph.D. in turfgrass science, soil science, plant physiology, or a related field is required. The candidate must demonstrate disciplinary expertise in a field relevant to turfgrass science, with the ability and desire to address problems within the context of turfgrass systems. Candidates must possess effective communication skills (verbal and written), teaching skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and clientele. The candidate must be organized and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously. An ability to engage professionally with our population of faculty, staff, and students across the university is required.
SALARY:
Commensurate with qualifications and experience. An excellent benefits package includes health, dental, and retirement contributions.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Candidates should apply online at https://hr.psu.edu/careers. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, the names and contact information for three references, three representative publications, a statement of research experiences/future interests, and a statement of teaching pedagogy/interests. System limitations allow for a total of 5 documents (5mb per document) as part of your application. Please combine materials to meet the 5-document limit.
START DATE: August 2026 or as negotiated.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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