Position Description:  The Texas A&M Department of Soil and Crop Sciences announces a vacancy for the position of an Assistant Professor and Extension Soils Specialist located at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Weslaco, TX.  The position is a 12-month, non-tenure track position responsible for leadership in development of educational programs and materials related to environmentally sustainable management of crops in the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas.  The successful candidate will interact with extension Regional Program Leaders, county extension agents, and other extension specialists and research faculty to develop successful programs and educational materials designed for Texas crop growers producing crops such as, but not limited to, cotton, citrus, vegetables, grain sorghum, corn, sugarcane, forages, and other crops of interest to the region, in a sustainable manner, through improved soil, soil nutrient, and soil water management. 

The successful candidate will also be expected to interact with other Soil and Crop Science Extension specialists, Extension specialists from other disciplines, and research scientists from across Texas A&M AgriLife, other universities, and state and federal agencies to develop and translate new knowledge regarding the science of crop production.  The successful candidate will be expected to lead an extramurally funded program in soil and crop production management, publish results in refereed journals, and train graduate students as appropriate. 

 Justification:  The economic impact of crop production in four counties in the Rio Grande Valley exceeds $1.6 billion annually.  Additional crops in other parts of South Texas are also an important contributor to the overall Texas economy.  Agricultural production has grown steadily in the past decade, providing income not only to growers, but the entire economy.  A scientist who understands climate smart farming practices that sustain soil health while enhancing carbon capture and reducing greenhouse gas emissions will be an important asset to agriculture in South Texas.

Application Process:  Applications should be completed through Workday. Complete packets should be submitted at https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/AgriLife_Extension_External/jobs, position # R-066072.  Incomplete packets will not be considered for the position.  The position will remain open until the appropriate candidate has been identified.  Applications will start being reviewed November 1, 2023.

Requirements: Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Crop Science, Weed Science, or closely related field. Candidates need to be proficient in leadership and have excellent oral and written communications skills; is skilled in the use of computers; and will be required to pass a criminal background check.  Land Grant University and Extension experience is preferred.  Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is an equal opportunity employer.  

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