The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at Mississippi State University announces the availability of a 9-month, tenure-track faculty position. Review of applications will begin June 15, 2005 and continue until the position is filled.

Position Function: To provide leadership in soil ecology and soil microbiology to support independent and collaborative research programs and to provide instructional expertise. Soil ecology and soil microbiology are seen as essential components of Soil Science activities in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences and as a key linkage between this area and other disciplines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: This position includes approximately 75% research and 25% teaching. Research requirements include publishing in refereed journals and participation in graduate student training. Securing extramural research support is a central necessity. Potential research topics critical to the economically and environmentally sound use of Mississippi natural resources include biogeochemistry and water quality functions of riparian areas and other landscape features, nutrient management, soil structure and microbial and micro-faunal ecology, biodegradation and bioremediation of organic contaminants, technologies for the improvement of nutrient and pathogen removal in septic system leach fields, and spatial and temporal distribution patterns of soil microbial properties and processes. Collaboration with basic science and engineering programs is encouraged. The incumbent will develop and teach an undergraduate-/graduate- level course in Soil Microbiology.

Minimum Qualifications: An earned Ph.D. in Soil Science with emphasis in microbiology, ecology or biochemistry or a closely related discipline is required. Post-doctoral experience, teaching experience and demonstrated grant writing skills are desirable. Exceptional individuals that are ABD will be considered for this position.

Instructions for Applying:

Please send cover letter, resume, one-page summary of research and teaching approach, official transcripts, and three letters of reference to:


Dr. William Kingery
Mississippi State University
Plant & Soil Sciences
Box 9555
Mississippi State, MS 39762.