Assistant, Associate, or Full Teaching Professor of Companion Animal Biology and Management

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

About the role

The Department of Animal Science at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, invites applications for an Assistant, Associate, or Full Teaching Professor of Companion Animal Biology and Management. This is a 48-week, non-tenure line faculty position with 75% Teaching and 25% Extension responsibilities.

The successful candidate will provide leadership in companion animal teaching and youth outreach programs and will play a central role in undergraduate education within the Animal Science major.

Responsibilities

• Undergraduate teaching responsibilities may include:
  • ANSC 150S (ANSC Freshman Seminar)
  • ANSC 215 (Pets in Society)
  • ANSC 305 (Companion Animal Nutrition)
  • ANSC 315 (Small Animal Health and Disease)
  • ANSC 415 (Companion Animal Behavior)
  • ANSC 419W (Applied Animal Welfare)
  • Development of additional courses aligned with departmental needs and candidate expertise
• Incorporate experiential learning into formal coursework
• Mentor undergraduate students and advise the Small and Exotic Animal Club
• Develop and deliver Extension and outreach programs focused on companion animal science through activities such as 4-H/youth programs, workshops, camps, and educational events
• Collaborate with Penn State Extension personnel to deliver educational materials through in-person and virtual formats
• Engage with stakeholders, alumni, and companion animal organizations to support educational initiatives
• Contribute to collaborative scholarship across the Department and College of Agricultural Sciences
• Engage in appropriate professional and service activities within and outside the Department

Requirements

• Ph.D. and/or D.V.M/V.M.D. degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or a closely related field (D.V.M/V.M.D. preferred)
• Areas of expertise may include nutrition, physiology, reproduction, genetics, disease, behavior, or related disciplines
• Completed all degree requirements by the appointment date
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching and effective outreach to formal and non-formal audiences
• Experience with experiential learning, youth programs, or student organizations is desirable
• Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills to work effectively with a diverse population of faculty, staff, students, youth audiences, and stakeholders

About the department

The Department of Animal Science at Penn State includes 32 faculty members and is home to internationally recognized programs in animal nutrition, reproduction, physiology, and genetics. The companion animal curriculum is a rapidly growing program in the Department and provides extensive opportunities for student engagement, experiential learning, and outreach. The successful candidate will join a collaborative faculty committed to excellence in teaching, advising, and student success.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Clearances

This position requires the following clearances: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.