Job Details

Assistant Professor, Meat Science

Position Number: 6857395
Location: Lubbock, TX
Position Type: Agriculture - Animal Science

Assistant Professor, Meat Science

43448BR
Position DescriptionThe Department of Animal and Food Sciences in the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Texas Tech University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor in Meat Science, beginning September 1, 2026. The expected allocation of effort for this position is 50% teaching and 50% research.The successful candidate will join a nationally recognized Meat Science program and complement existing faculty strengths in meat quality, muscle biology, food safety, and animal protein systems sustainability. This position represents a strategic investment in the Davis College PRIME Initiative in Sustainable Food, Fiber, and Thriving Communities, particularly within the themes of Sustainable Food Systems and One Health, and aligns with departmental excellence areas in Meat Science, Food Safety, and Meat Animal Production Systems.This position offers an opportunity for an emerging scholar to build a nationally recognized, externally funded, and collaborative research and teaching program that enhances the sustainability and resilience of the beef and livestock supply chain-from production and processing to packaging, retail, and consumer engagement. The faculty member will contribute to multidisciplinary efforts linking meat science, animal production, food systems, and sustainability. Responsibilities include research, teaching, and service: developing a research program in meat science and muscle biology with an emphasis on Animal Protein System Sustainability; teaching undergraduate and graduate courses; mentoring M.S. and Ph.D. students; and engaging in professional and public service to advance the missions of the department, college, and university.

Position Description
The Department of Animal and Food Sciences in the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Texas Tech University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor in Meat Science, beginning September 1, 2026. The expected allocation of effort for this position is 50% teaching and 50% research.

The successful candidate will join a nationally recognized Meat Science program and complement existing faculty strengths in meat quality, muscle biology, food safety, and animal protein systems sustainability. This position represents a strategic investment in the Davis College PRIME Initiative in Sustainable Food, Fiber, and Thriving Communities, particularly within the themes of Sustainable Food Systems and One Health, and aligns with departmental excellence areas in Meat Science, Food Safety, and Meat Animal Production Systems.

This position offers an opportunity for an emerging scholar to build a nationally recognized, externally funded, and collaborative research and teaching program that enhances the sustainability and resilience of the beef and livestock supply chain-from production and processing to packaging, retail, and consumer engagement. The faculty member will contribute to multidisciplinary efforts linking meat science, animal production, food systems, and sustainability. Responsibilities include research, teaching, and service: developing a research program in meat science and muscle biology with an emphasis on Animal Protein System Sustainability; teaching undergraduate and graduate courses; mentoring M.S. and Ph.D. students; and engaging in professional and public service to advance the missions of the department, college, and university.

Major/Essential Functions
In line with TTU's strategic priorities to engage and empower a diverse student body, enable innovative research and creative activities, and transform lives and communities through outreach and engaged scholarship, applicants should have experience working with diverse student populations at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels within individual or across the areas of teaching, research/creative activity, and service.

As a faculty member in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, you will be expected to:

Develop an independent, externally funded research program in meat science and muscle biology focused on animal sourced protein system sustainability.
Collaborate across disciplines to enhance the efficiency, quality, and value of animal protein systems.
Teach courses, including a principle of meat science course (ANSC 3403) with opportunities to develop curriculum on related topics that align with departmental needs.
Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research, experiential learning, and professional development.
Engage with industry and commodity partners, contributing to applied research and outreach that supports workforce development and industry innovation.
Provide service to the department, college, university, and professional organizations to advance the mission of Texas Tech University and the meat science discipline.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Animal Science, Food Science, or a closely related field, with an emphasis in meat science, muscle foods, and/or muscle biology (degree completed by the start date).
Demonstrated research experience in meat science or muscle biology, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or research contributions to multidisciplinary projects.
Evidence of teaching effectiveness or instructional potential, such as experience as a teaching assistant, laboratory instructor, guest lecturer, or curriculum developer in animal or meat science courses.
Demonstrated communication and leadership skills, reflected through activities such as leading or coordinating research teams, mentoring undergraduate or graduate students, organizing workshops or outreach events, presenting research to academic or industry audiences, or contributing to collaborative, multi-institutional projects.
Ability to secure extramural funding, demonstrated by participation in proposal development, industry partnerships, or contribution to funded research projects.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, individuals with the following preferred qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply:
Experience in applied, industry-relevant research, such as carcass evaluation, meat quality, muscle biology, processing, or packaging.
Evidence of collaborative or interdisciplinary research linking production, processing, or sustainability in animal protein systems.
Demonstrated engagement in experiential learning environments, such as laboratory instruction, product development, or judging team coaching.
Record of participation in professional organizations (e.g., AMSA, ASAS, IFT) or service to commodity groups and youth programs.
Interest or experience in data analytics, experimental design, or process improvement in meat science.
Evidence of commitment to student mentoring, diversity, and inclusion in academic or research settings.

Special Instructions to Applicant
Please include the following documents in your application:

Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Teaching and Research Statements
Copy of post-baccalaureate transcripts
List of references

Questions about this position should be directed to Dr. Brad Johnson, Search Committee Chair at bradley.johnson@ttu.edu.

To apply, visit workattexastech.com

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.