Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering
Kentucky State University

TITLE: Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering        COLLEGE: College of Business, Engineering & Technology (CBET) DEPARTMENT: Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering REPORTS TO: (position not name of person; example: Vice Provost of Student Affairs)  CLASSIFICATION: Faculty EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2024 STANDARD WORK HOURS: 40 hours per week LOCATION: Frankfort, Kentucky EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time  EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt  JOB SUMMARY:   The principal purpose of an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering is to contribute to the academic mission of the University by engaging in teaching, research, and service within the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. In addition, an Assistant Professor plays a crucial role in advancing the knowledge and skills of students through effective teaching, contributing to the academic community through research, and supporting the University's overall mission through service and professional development. Assistant Professors' roles collectively contribute to the growth and reputation of the academic institution.   SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES:   As an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University, the individual will have a comprehensive scope of responsibilities encompassing teaching, research, service, and professional development. The following outlines the key areas of responsibility:   Teaching: Develop and deliver undergraduate courses in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Employ innovative and effective teaching methods to engage students in high-impact learning processes.Contribute to the continuous improvement of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering curriculum.Provide academic advising and mentorship to students.  Research: Conduct original research in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at academic conferences.Actively seek external funding to support research initiatives.Collaborate with colleagues and industry partners on interdisciplinary research projects.Supervise and mentor graduate students involved in research activities.  Service: Participate in departmental and university committees, contributing to the institution's effective functioning.Engage in outreach activities and collaborations with industry partners to foster connections between academia and the manufacturing sector.Contribute to students' academic and professional development through advising and mentoring.Participate in community and public service initiatives that align with the mission of the university.  Professional Development: Stay current with advancements in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance teaching and research capabilities.Pursue opportunities for continued education and professional growth.Collaborate with colleagues on pedagogical innovations and advancements in Agricultural and Biological Engineering education.  Collaboration: Foster a collaborative and inclusive academic environment within the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary research projects and educational initiatives.Cultivate positive relationships with industry partners and stakeholders to enhance student engagement and research collaboration opportunities.  Diversity and Inclusion: Promote diversity and inclusion within the academic and research environments.Contribute to the creation of a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for students, faculty, and staff.  This scope of responsibility reflects the multifaceted role of an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University, emphasizing excellence in teaching, impactful research, active service, and continuous professional development. The position is integral to the university's commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.   ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  The essential job functions of an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University typically include the following:   Teaching and Course Development:Develop and deliver undergraduate courses in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Utilize effective and innovative teaching methods to engage students.Contribute to the development and enhancement of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering curriculum.  Research and Scholarly Activity:Conduct original research in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at academic conferences.Actively seek external funding to support research initiatives.Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary research projects.  Advising and Mentorship:Provide academic advising to undergraduate students in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering program.Mentor students in research projects, internships, and other academic pursuits.Contribute to the professional and personal development of students.  Service to the Department and University:Participate in departmental committees and activities.Engage in university-wide committees and initiatives.Contribute to the overall functioning and improvement of the department and university.  Community Engagement and Outreach:Collaborate with industry partners and stakeholders to enhance educational and research opportunities.Engage in outreach activities to promote the Agricultural and Biological Engineering program.Participate in community service initiatives aligned with the university's mission.  Professional Development:Stay current with advancements in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance teaching and research capabilities.Pursue opportunities for continued education and professional growth.  Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Work:Collaborate with colleagues within the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Foster interdisciplinary collaborations with faculty from other departments or institutions.Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive academic environment.  Diversity and Inclusion:Promote diversity and inclusion within the academic and research environments.Contribute to creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for students, faculty, and staff.  These essential job functions collectively contribute to the Assistant Professor's role in advancing the academic mission of Kentucky State University, including excellence in teaching, impactful research, active service, and fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. The specific duties may vary depending on the department's needs and the evolving priorities of the university.   KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:   The knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required for an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University can vary based on the department's and the university's specific needs. However, here is a general set of KSAs that are commonly sought for individuals in this position:   Knowledge: Subject Matter Expertise:In-depth knowledge of Agricultural and Biological Engineering principles, processes, and technologies.Familiarity with emerging trends and advancements in the field. Educational Foundations:Strong understanding of pedagogical principles and best practices in engineering education.Knowledge of curriculum development and assessment techniques. Research Acumen:Familiarity with research methodologies in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Knowledge of grant writing and research funding processes.  Industry Insight:Understanding of current industry practices and challenges in manufacturing.Awareness of the practical applications of Agricultural and Biological Engineering in real-world settings. Interdisciplinary Knowledge:Ability to collaborate across disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary research and teaching. Diversity and Inclusion:Knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in academia.Understanding of how to create an inclusive learning environment.Skills: Teaching Skills:Effective classroom management and instructional design skills.Ability to employ diverse teaching methods to engage students. Communication Skills:Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Ability to convey complex engineering concepts in a clear and accessible manner. Research Skills:Strong research skills with the ability to conduct and publish original research.Competence in securing research funding. Collaboration Skills:Team collaboration skills for interdisciplinary projects.Ability to work effectively with colleagues, students, and industry partners. Technology Proficiency:Proficiency in using relevant software and technologies related to Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Familiarity with tools used in both research and teaching environments.  Problem-Solving Skills:Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Ability to guide students in practical problem-solving exercises.Abilities: Adaptability:Ability to adapt to evolving educational methods and industry practices. Leadership Abilities:Capacity to provide leadership in academic and service-related activities.Mentorship abilities to guide students and junior faculty. Innovative Thinking:Ability to bring innovative ideas to teaching and research.Openness to exploring new approaches in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Networking and Relationship Building:Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with students, colleagues, and industry partners.Networking skills to enhance collaborative opportunities. Commitment to Continuous Learning:Eagerness for continuous professional development.Willingness to stay updated on advancements in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.  Candidates for this position should tailor their application materials and interviews to highlight how their specific knowledge, skills, and abilities align with the unique requirements of the Assistant Professor role in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University.   SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY This position does have supervisory responsibility.  While the primary focus of an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University is typically on teaching, research, and service, supervisory responsibilities may include the following:   Research Supervision:Guide and mentor undergraduate and graduate students involved in research projects.Provide support and direction for students conducting research in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Facilitate a productive and positive research environment within the academic setting. Teaching Assistants:Supervise and mentor teaching assistants or graders assigned to courses.Provide guidance on teaching methodologies, grading standards, and other instructional aspects.Foster a collaborative and supportive teaching environment within the department. Capstone or Senior Design Projects:Oversee and guide students participating in capstone projects or senior design projects.Provide mentorship to student teams working on practical engineering projects. Student Advising:Act as an academic advisor, guiding students in course selection, career planning, and academic goals.Provide mentorship and support for students' academic and professional development. Internship or Co-op Program Oversight:Supervise students participating in internship or cooperative education programs.Collaborate with industry partners to facilitate meaningful learning experiences for students. Collaborative Research Teams:Lead or participate in collaborative research teams involving other faculty members, researchers, and students.Provide guidance on project management, research methodologies, and academic publications.  Committee Participation:Serve on departmental or university committees, contributing to decision-making processes.Collaborate with colleagues on academic and administrative matters. Community Outreach Programs:Supervise students involved in community outreach or educational programs related to Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Engage in initiatives that connect the university with the broader community.  It's important to note that the extent of supervisory responsibilities can vary, and these duties are often in addition to the core responsibilities of teaching, research, and service. Additionally, the specific nature of supervisory roles may depend on the department's policies, the needs of the academic program, and the preferences of the individual assistant professor.    OTHER DUTIES:   In addition to the essential job functions, an Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University may be involved in various other duties and activities contributing to overall academic and institutional goals. These additional duties can include:   Student Recruitment and Retention:Participate in student recruitment efforts to attract high-quality students to the Agricultural and Biological Engineering program.Implement strategies to enhance student retention and success. Professional Society Involvement:Engage actively in professional societies related to Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Attend and present at conferences organized by professional organizations.Contribute to the visibility and reputation of the university through professional affiliations. Lab Development and Management:Contribute to the development and maintenance of laboratory facilities relevant to Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Supervise and mentor students working in research and laboratory settings.  Industry Collaboration:Establish and maintain partnerships with industry organizations and companies.Facilitate opportunities for students to engage in internships, cooperative education, or collaborative projects with industry.  Grant Writing:Seek external funding through grant writing to support research projects and educational initiatives.Collaborate with colleagues on multi-disciplinary grant proposals.Curriculum Review and Revision:Participate in regular reviews of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering curriculum.Suggest and implement updates to align with industry trends and emerging technologies. Faculty Development:Mentor junior faculty members.Participate in faculty development programs to enhance teaching and research skills. Public Engagement:Engage in public lectures, workshops, or events to disseminate knowledge and promote the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Contribute to the university's role in the broader community. Technology Transfer:Explore opportunities for technology transfer and commercialization of research findings.Collaborate with the university's technology transfer office on intellectual property matters.Participation in Accreditation Processes:Contribute to the preparation and documentation required for accreditation reviews.Engage in activities to maintain and enhance program accreditation. International Collaboration:Explore opportunities for international collaboration, such as exchange programs or joint research projects.  QUALIFICATIONS:   1. Education: Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. ABD candidates nearing completion may be considered.  2. Teaching Experience: Demonstrated potential for effective teaching at the undergraduate level.Experience in developing and delivering courses in Agricultural and Biological Engineering or related disciplines.  3. Research Record: Strong potential for scholarly research in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Evidence of or potential for publishing research findings in reputable journals.  4. Industry Experience (Desirable): Practical experience in the manufacturing industry is desirable.Familiarity with current industry practices and trends.  5. Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Ability to convey complex engineering concepts in a clear and accessible manner.  6. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Skills: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues within the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering and across disciplines.Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research projects.  7. Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in using relevant software and technologies related to Agricultural and Biological Engineering.Familiarity with tools used in both research and teaching environments.  8. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.Awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of a diverse student body.  9. Grant Writing and Research Funding: Ability to seek external funding through grant writing to support research initiatives.Experience or potential for securing research funding.  10. Student Advising and Mentorship: Ability to provide academic advising to undergraduate students.Demonstrated commitment to mentoring students in research projects and career development.  11. Professional Development: Eagerness for continuous professional development.Willingness to stay updated on advancements in the field of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.  12. Adaptability: Ability to adapt to evolving educational methods and industry practices.Openness to exploring new approaches in the field.  13. Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with colleagues, students, and industry partners.Ability to contribute positively to a collaborative academic environment.   Licensing and Certifications:  Typically, Assistant Professors in academia, including those in Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Kentucky State University, do not require specific professional licenses or certifications. Academic positions at the university level focus more on educational qualifications, teaching experience, and research expertise. However, there are some cases where having relevant certifications or licenses could be beneficial, especially if they align with the specific focus of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering program or if the faculty member is engaged in certain applied aspects of the field. Such certifications might include:   Professional Engineer (PE) License:While not a common requirement for academia, having a Professional Engineer license might be advantageous, especially if the faculty member is involved in projects that require engineering oversight or if they are engaged in practical aspects of manufacturing. Certifications in Specific Technologies:Depending on the focus of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering program, certifications in specific technologies or software commonly used in the industry might be relevant. For example, certifications related to computer-aided design (CAD) software, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), or Six Sigma methodologies could be valuable. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification:For faculty involved in areas related to occupational safety and health, having OSHA certifications might be beneficial. Quality Management System Certifications:Certifications related to quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) might be relevant for faculty involved in quality control and assurance aspects of manufacturing.  It's essential for candidates to carefully review the specific job posting and any additional documentation provided by Kentucky State University to determine if there are any specific certifications or licenses required or preferred for the Assistant Professor position in Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Additionally, candidates may want to inquire directly with the university's human resources department or the department conducting the search for any clarification on this matter.   WORKING CONDITIONS:  Work in both indoor office work environment and outdoor field/farm environment.Moderate physical effort required to move supplies and material in a farm, greenhouse, laboratory work.Moderate physical risk that is associated with normal farm, greenhouse, and laboratory work  Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa. Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.  KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.