"Assistant Professor - Rural Sociologist"

Assistant Professor - Rural Sociologist

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn, Alabama

Category: Sociology

Type: Full-Time

Posting Number: P2243F

Job Description Summary

The Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology (DAERS) in the College of Agriculture at Auburn University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in Rural Sociology. The planned start date for the position is August 2026. This position is a 9-month tenure-track, appointment at the rank of assistant professor. The allocation of effort of this position is 40% teaching and 60% research.

Research:

Research responsibilities will include developing and implementing a nationally recognized research program focused on the human dimensions of agriculture, particularly as it relates to implementation and adaptation of technology (e.g., drones, AI, precision ag, cover crops). The successful candidate is expected to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations across the college's departments, units associated with AAES, and among relevant stakeholders and the Alabama agricultural community. Moreover, their program of research will contribute to a greater understanding of the social dimensions of socio-agricultural systems in Alabama and the southeastern U.S. The successful candidate will transfer the results of their scholarly program through recognized, peer-reviewed, disciplinary and interdisciplinary outlets, as well as technical and outreach publications for relevant clientele. This position will contribute to the University and College's strategic visions through excellence in graduate education, innovative partnerships, community engagement, entrepreneurship, and world-class research efforts.

Teaching:

The teaching requirement for this position is three courses per year. Initial course load may include an undergraduate Introduction to Rural Studies and Sociology of Sustainable Agrifood Systems. Other courses may include an introductory issues course or graduate instruction based on departmental needs and the successful candidate's expertise. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the department's teaching programs through teaching, mentoring, and directing theses and research projects.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in Rural Sociology or Sociology from an accredited institution at the time employment begins. The successful candidate must show evidence of strong qualitative and quantitative skills, as well as experience conducting agricultural social science research. The applicant must also show documented evidence of the ability to conduct research and to teach. The successful candidate must possess the ability to effectively collaborate with a various group of faculty, staff, and graduate student colleagues across disciplines. The ideal candidate will demonstrate presentation skills for interacting with multiple types of audiences such as academic, student, and stakeholders such as farmers, policy makers, and community organizations. The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the term of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Desired qualifications include: previous teaching experience in rural sociology or sociology; a demonstrated record of securing extramural funding for research and educational programs; and government or industry experience in agricultural research.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Candidates should apply directly at the following link https://www.auemployment.com/postings/56553. Please submit the following items

1. Cover letter that addresses teaching philosophy and research plans
2. Current curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Transcripts

When prompted during the on-line process, please provide the names, email addresses and phone numbers for three (3) professional references. Only complete applications will be reviewed. Review of applications will begin December 20, 2025, and may continue until the position is filled. For more information, please contact the search committee chair Dr. Michelle Worosz at mrw0016@auburn.edu.

Salary Range: 80,000 - 90,000

Open Until Filled: No

References required for this position?: Yes

If yes, minimum number requested: 3