P-9668

EXTENSION SPECIALIST - HORTICULTURE - University of Kentucky

This is a 12 month non-tenure track (90% extension, 10% research) position available with the Department of Horticulture in the College of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky. The individual will develop and implement an innovative and proactive extension program designed to meet the needs of small farms involved in fruit, vegetable, and woodland medicinal plant production in Eastern Kentucky. Responsibilities in general horticulture such as home vegetable gardening are also expected. It is essential that this candidate will contribute to the departmental and regional focus on sustainability by developing educational programs and applied research in the area of sustainable farm systems capable of enriching the lives of Kentuckians. The incumbent will work with local county agents and faculty in horticulture and other departments at the University of Kentucky to provide leadership and creative intellectual solutions to horticultural problems in Appalachia as well as supporting 4-H Youth Development programs in horticulture. It is expected that the successful candidate will publish research findings in appropriate peer reviewed journals as well as obtain extramural funding appropriate for their program.

Minimum qualifications are a Masters Degree and three years of related experience or the equivalent. A MS in Horticulture or related plant science discipline is preferred, and a PhD in similar fields is strongly preferred. Candidates should have excellent communication and managerial skills, capabilities for working within a team environment, and exhibit strong self-motivation. Previous extension experience and practical farming knowledge are highly desired.

This position is located at the Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability (RCARS) in Quicksand, Kentucky. This location is approximately 1.5 hours from campus, 40 minutes from The Red River Gorge Geological Area and Daniel Boone National Forest affording many outdoor recreational opportunities.

The salary is open and competitive according to individual qualifications. A 403-B retirement plan, group health and life insurance are available.

Application deadline: December 1, 2009 or until a qualified applicant is identified. To apply for job # SM528165, submit a UK Online Application at: http://www.uky.edu/ukjobs/. If you have any questions, contact HR/Employment, phone (859) 257-9555 press 2, or email ukjobs@email.uky.edu.

Contact: Dr. John Strang, EEO Coordinator, Search committee chair, S-101 Agr. Science N., Department of Horticulture, University of Kentucky, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0091
Lexington, KY 40546-0091, (859) 257-5685
e-mail: jstrang@uky.edu.

The University of Kentucky is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from minorities and women.
(Posted 11-9-09)1109/P-9668

Posted on: 11/09/2009
Closing date: 12/01/2009 or Until filled