Extension Asst. Professor - Small & Large Ruminants

TITLE: Extension Assistant Professor – Small & Large Ruminants 

DEPARTMENT: COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, HEALTH, AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

REPORTS TO: Director of Land Grant Programs / Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources 

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD 

EMPLOYMENT STATUS:  Full-Time                                             

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION:  Exempt                                                    

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.  

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB:   

The Cooperative Extension Assistant Professor of Small Ruminants will provide leadership in educational outreach, research, and service related to the management and production of small and large ruminants. This position will focus on developing and delivering extension programs that enhance the knowledge and skills of producers, stakeholders, and the community regarding sustainable practices, health management, and economic viability in ruminant agriculture. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: (ex: duties that are essential to performing the job with or without an accommodation)

• Extension Program Development:
• Lead the development of a nationally recognized Extension and outreach programs focusing on Small Ruminant Production, particularly lamb and wool production. with an emphasis on sheep and goats.
• Develop an undergraduate course in “Sheep and Wool Production and Lab,” or “Ruminant Management” a three-credit-hour offering each fall semester.
• Design and implement educational workshops for small ruminant producers.
• Develop outreach materials, including fact sheets, newsletters, and online resources.
• Collaborate with local and state organizations to assess needs and tailor programs accordingly, i.e., Focus on sustainable goat and sheep production across KY, work with KY Sheep and Goat Association and Southeast KY Sheep Producers Association.  
• Research and Evaluation: •  Conduct applied research related to ruminant management, nutrition, breeding, and health.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of extension programs and adapt strategies based on feedback and assessment results.
• Publish research findings in relevant journals and present at industry conferences.
• Advisory and Support Services: •    Provide expert advice and technical support to producers on best practices in ruminant management.
• Address inquiries and concerns from farmers and stakeholders through workshops, farm visits, and one-on-one consultations.
• Collaboration and Networking:
• Build relationships with industry stakeholders, including agricultural agencies, farmer cooperatives, and research institutions.
• Collaborate with faculty and extension specialists in interdisciplinary projects that address broader agricultural challenges.
• Student Engagement and Mentorship: •    Mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students involved in extension and research activities.
• Contribute to the educational development of students in related programs.
• Community Engagement:
• Engage with the community to promote awareness of ruminant agriculture and its contributions to local economies and food systems.
• Participate in outreach events and programs that connect the university with the agricultural community.
• Professional Development:
• Stay current with advancements in ruminant production through continuous education and professional development.
• Participate in relevant professional organizations and conferences.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Earned Ph.D. completed by appointment date in Animal Science or a closely related field with an emphasis in small ruminant production.
• Knowledge of practical lamb and wool production and the modern sheep industry.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with colleagues, staff, students, producer groups, and other clientele.
• The ability or potential to develop innovative and effective producer outreach programs through extension.
• The ability or potential to identify and effectively address issues in modern small ruminant production.
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire, and a willingness to travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to conduct applied research and to develop an extramurally funded program through Extension programming.
• Extension or outreach related experience.
• Experience in successful grant writing.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:    

1. Animal Husbandry:
   1. In-depth understanding of small ruminant biology, physiology, and behavior. o      Familiarity with breeding, nutrition, health management, and welfare practices for sheep, goats, and other small ruminants.
2. Production Systems:
   1. Knowledge of various production systems, including pasture-based, intensive, and organic systems.
   2. Understanding of sustainable practices in small ruminant production.
3. Extension Education:
   1. Awareness of adult education principles and extension methodologies. o    Familiarity with program evaluation techniques and needs assessment in agricultural communities.
4. Research and Development:
   1. Knowledge of current research trends and innovations in small ruminant management and production.

Skills:

1. Communication:
   1. Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
   2. Proficiency in developing educational materials such as fact sheets, presentations, and online resources.
2. Teaching and Facilitation:
   1. Skills in designing and delivering engaging educational programs and workshops. o             Ability to utilize various teaching methods, including hands-on demonstrations and interactive learning.
3. Research Skills:
   1. Competence in conducting applied research, including experimental design and data analysis.
   2. Ability to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
4. Technical Proficiency:
   1. Familiarity with relevant software for data analysis, program management, and outreach.

Abilities: 1. Interpersonal: o            Ability to build and maintain relationships with producers, industry stakeholders, and community organizations.

1. Problem-Solving:
   1. Capacity to identify challenges in small ruminant production and develop effective, evidencebased solutions.
2. Adaptability:
   1. Ability to adapt extension programming and research focus based on changing industry needs and emerging trends.
3. Community Engagement:
   1. Ability to actively engage with local communities to promote awareness of small ruminant agriculture and its benefits.
4. Leadership:
   1. Ability to lead collaborative projects and interdisciplinary initiatives that address broader agricultural issues.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Work is normally performed in typical interior/office work, field work across the state, and at the research and demonstration farm.
• Some but limited physical effort required.
• Very limited exposure to physical risk.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.