"Assistant Professor - Pedology and Land Use"

Assistant Professor - Pedology and Land Use

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category: Plant and Soil Science

Type: Full-Time

Posting Number: P2262F

Job Description Summary

The Department of Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences in the College of Agriculture at Auburn University is seeking applications for the position of Assistant Professor - Pedology and Land Use. This position will be a nine-month tenure-track position with 60% research and a 40% teaching appointment. The projected start date is August 2026.

Responsibilities: We are seeking an exceptional candidate to develop a dynamic, impactful, and innovative research program in soil management and pedology, with applications across agricultural, forested, urban, and natural landscapes. The successful applicant will employ advanced technologies and interdisciplinary approaches using pedology, hydropedology and geospatial analyses to investigate how land use affects soil properties and terrestrial processes. Alabama is a coastal state, and expertise in subaqueous soil environments is encouraged. The successful candidate will also interact with the Alabama Professional Soil Classifiers and serve as the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station representative to the National Cooperative Soil Survey (NCSS). This individual is expected to establish a nationally and internationally recognized research program that makes meaningful contributions to soil science and secures competitive external funding.

Teaching responsibilities include delivering 9 to 10 credit hours of instruction per academic year, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate-level courses. The candidate will also advise graduate students, mentor undergraduate researchers, and coach our soil judging team. Strong written and interpersonal communication skills are essential for engaging with students, colleagues, and broader audiences in academic and outreach settings.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. from an accredited institution in soil science with training in pedology. The successful candidate will be able to describe, classify, and interpret soils in both field and laboratory settings using NCSS standards such as Soil Taxonomy and the Field Book for Describing and Sampling Soils. Proficiency in soil profile description and horizon identification is essential as these skills support soil survey activities, wetland delineation, and related conservation practices. Expertise in connecting soil morphology with hydrology, land use, and management is especially valuable for conservation planning and technical guidance.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to building cross-disciplinary partnerships, developing an impactful research and teaching program, and engaging students through innovative and hands-on approaches. Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills are essential for working with diverse audiences and fostering student success. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the United States at the time of appointment and maintain work authorization throughout the term of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Candidates should be able to demonstrate an ability to work cooperatively with colleagues across disciplines and develop a regionally and nationally recognized research and teaching program.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants should apply for the position by visiting the link: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/56841 and attach the following:

1. Cover letter that addresses the experience pertinent to the responsibilities of the position
2. Current curriculum vita
3. Copies of ALL academic transcripts
4. Statement of research interests and accomplishments
5. Statement of teaching philosophy and/or accomplishments

When prompted during the on-line process, please provide names, email addresses and phone numbers for three (3) professional references. Only complete applications materials will be considered. To ensure consideration for the position, applicants are encouraged to apply by the end of business on February 01, 2026. The search may continue until the position is filled. Questions about this position should be directed to: Dr. Thorsten Knappenberger, Search Committee Chair, email: knappi@auburn.edu

Salary Range: 85,000 to 95,000

References required for this position? Yes

If yes, minimum number requested 3