Assistant Professor of Rural Sociology

This is a nine-month, tenure-track position in rural sociology at the Assistant Professor level with a 65% research and 35% Extension appointment. The successful candidate will be expected to develop a nationally and internationally recognized, integrated research-Extension program on population health, with a focus on rural populations, healthcare seeking and utilization behaviors, and the use of One Health frameworks to understand linkages between human health, animal health, and the natural environment.

The successful candidate should have skills in quantitative methods and network analysis and experience and interest working in interdisciplinary teams. They will also be expected to secure external funding and to advise and mentor graduate and/or undergraduate students.

Qualifications

Doctorate in rural sociology, sociology, or related interdisciplinary field of the social sciences. The successful candidate must have completed all degree requirements by the appointment date. Applicants should demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams. The ability to engage professionally with an inclusive population of faculty, staff, and students is required, and the successful candidate will actively strive to provide an inclusive learning environment for all.

Application Requirements

Review of applications will begin on August 1, 2026, with a start date of January 1, 2027, or as negotiated. Candidates should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement, and names and contact information for three references.

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. Questions can be directed to the Search Committee chair: Brian Thiede, Associate Professor of Rural Sociology and Demography (thiede@psu.edu).