Assistant or Associate Professor in Extension in Ornamental Horticulture or Turf Sciences

Assistant or Associate Professor in Extension in Ornamental Horticulture or Turf Sciences South Dakota State University (SDState) is seeking an Assistant or Associate Professor in Extension in Ornamental Horticulture or Turf Sciences (70% Extension; 30% research appointment in the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station) in the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture & Plant Sciences.The successful applicant will be expected to develop a nationally recognized research program in Extension with Horticultural Crops-either Turf or Ornamental-that that improves sustainability and agroecosystem resiliency. This position is located in Brookings. This position is a 9 Month, Tenure-Track, full-time, benefits-eligible position. The Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science is a multidisciplinary department with the size and breadth to address today's complex scientific issues while retaining the student-centered focus, an SDSU plant science hallmark. All of our programs feature a carefully designed balance of theoretical principles and hands-on experience to produce a well-rounded graduate who is prepared for the 21st century workplace. As a result, our graduates are in high demand and frequently have jobs before graduation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: The incumbent will be a critical member of a collaborative Extension team. The incumbent is expected to advance sustainable agricultural research in Horticulture, supporting South Dakota's economy, and strengthening SDSU's reputation in Horticultural Sciences, especially with the commercial nursery, landscape, greenhouse, and turf industry. Scholarly/Research (30%): Beyond research, this position is vital for securing competitive grant funding that supports SDSU's research infrastructure and benefits the broader agricultural community. Funding may come from various sources-including USDA NIFA, AMS, and SARE, state-level specialty crop block grants, horticultural commodity groups, horticulture foundations, and industry collaborations. The incumbent will develop science-based, region specific horticultural crop management portfolio suitable for Extension and stakeholder engagement. Publication of scholarly work in peer-reviewed journals and graduate student mentoring is expected of the successful candidate. Extension Education (70%): Develop, deliver, and evaluate nationally recognized scholarly research program in Extension with Horticultural Crops-either Turf or Ornamental-that that improves sustainability and agroecosystem resiliency. 37Develop relationships with key stakeholders to understand their needs for instruction. 37Instruct stakeholders, leveraging research and expertise to develop and deliver information in ways that align with stakeholder needs. 37Teach stakeholders how to leverage extension resources and outcomes of scholarly research. BENEFITS: SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university's guidelines. QUALIFICATIONS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 37PhD in horticulture or plant science, or a closely related field by start date. 37Experience in delivering Extension programming. 37Scholarly productivity, including peer-reviewed journal articles and/or presentations at scientific meetings. 37Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills . 37Valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 37Postdoctoral research experience and/or professional research/extension experience. APPLICATION PROCESS: SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on "apply for this job." This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, curriculum vitae, teaching statement (3-page limit, attached as "other"), research statement (3-page limit, attached as "writing or work sample") and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process. Posting Date 10/28/2026 Closing Date 12/04/2026 Open Until Filled No Advertised Salary The minimum salary for this position is $85,000 at Assistant Professor rank. Salary is commensurate with experience. Duration of the Term 9 months Appointment Percent 100% Tenure Status Tenure Track Proposed Rank Multiple Rank Appointment Type Regular Scope of Search External (includes Internal) Department Description and Cultural Expectations SDState is the state's largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. Contact Information For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Dr. John Ball at John.Ball@sdstate.edu.