What are the responsibilities and job description for the Department Head and Professor - Food Science & Technology position at Inside Higher Ed?
Posting Number
F2640P
Working Title
Department Head and Professor - Food Science & Technology
Department
CAES-Food Science & Technology
About The University Of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: The Department of FST is one of the core units in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). An undergraduate major in Food Science is offered with areas of emphasis in Food Processing, Food Microbiology, Food Chemistry, Nutritional Quality, Food Analysis, Quality Control, Governmental Regulation, and Food Product Development. Outstanding graduate programs leading to either the M.S. or Ph.D. degree are supported by a large graduate faculty with diverse research programs and broad disciplinary expertise. Graduate studies and research programs are characterized by strong interdepartmental and interdisciplinary ties. The Department hosts a large Extension program focused on applied research to address the needs of farmers and the public in Georgia and worldwide. FST offers an undergraduate B.S. degree in Food Science & Technology, a thesis-based M.S. in in Food Science & Technology and a Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology. Additionally, FST offers an online Masters in Food Technology (MFT). With nearly 28 faculty and over 100 graduate students across the Athens and Griffin campuses, we are one of the largest departments of FST in the U.S. The department is recognized internationally for its comprehensive and integrative research and outreach portfolio, spanning basic, translational, and applied programs. The Center for Food Safety (CFS) and the Food Product Innovation and Commercialization center (FoodPIC) are core units within the Department of FST.
ABOUT THE COLLEGE: The mission of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is to seek, verify, and apply knowledge related to agriculture and the environment, and to disseminate this knowledge through student education and public outreach programs. CAES is among the best and most established colleges of agriculture in the U.S. In its classrooms, its Agricultural Experiment Stations, and its statewide network of UGA Cooperative Extension offices, the faculty, and staff of CAES are dedicated to discovering, teaching, and delivering the science required for healthy living to flourish in Georgia. Agricultural and environmental sciences are only as important as the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the water and air around you. To improve the quality and guard the safety of life’s necessities, the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has gathered world- renowned scientists and exceptional students. See https://www.caes.uga.edu/ for additional information.
College/Unit/Department Website
https://foodscience.caes.uga.edu/
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
TRS or ORP
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Advertised Salary
Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience
Anticipated Start Date
08/01/2026
Job Posting Date
01/23/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions To Applicants
Inquiries should be directed to Dr. Manpreet Singh, Chair of the Search Committee (manpreet@uga.edu).
Materials to be uploaded include i) a formal letter stating the applicant’s qualifications for the position and a statement of leadership philosophy with specific examples of how it has been demonstrated; ii) curriculum vitae; and iii) names and contact information of four professional references (referees will not be contacted without further communication with the applicant). Selected applicants will be required to submit transcripts and a background investigation demonstrating eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia.
Applications received by March 15, 2026, are assured full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Location of Vacancy:
Athens Area
EEO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title
Professor
Faculty Rank
Professor
Contract Type
Academic (9 mo.)
Tenure Status
Tenured
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate in food science and technology or related field.
Position Summary
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences seeks an accomplished, energetic and visionary leader for the position of Professor and Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (FST; https://foodscience.caes.uga.edu/). This is a 9-month academic-year appointment with a guarantee of 2 months of additional summer salary, tenured position and the successful candidate must qualify for the rank of Professor consistent with Food Science and Technology Promotion and Tenure Unit criteria found here: https://provost.uga.edu/_resources/documents/food-science-and-technology-2018.pdf
The department head has oversight over field units supporting research, teaching, and outreach. This position is highly engaged with the various commodity groups and other stakeholders of departmental programs. The Department Head will advocate for FST within and outside the university, and actively secure resources to strengthen its mission. The best-fit individual will foster excellence in teaching, research, and extension and encourage a positive, collegial climate and participatory decision-making process within the department. FST’s next leader is expected to build upon the existing momentum within the food sciences for departmental growth and unification, student training, procuring extramural funding and strengthening research, teaching, extension, outreach, and alumni engagement.
Additional Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and/or Extension is required; Record of academic and/or professional achievement commensurate with a tenured appointment at the rank of professor; Evidence of visionary leadership and strategic planning in academic, industry, regulatory, or government organizations; Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the three missions of a land grant university: excellence in teaching, research, and extension/outreach; Demonstrated experience (at least one to two years) in the leadership of people, projects, and consensus building; Effectiveness in personnel management, interpersonal and stakeholder communication, and financial and physical resources; Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Candidates must be approved for tenure upon appointment before hire. To be eligible for tenure upon appointment, candidates must be appointed as a full professor, have been tenured at a prior institution, and bring a demonstrable national reputation to the institution. To be considered for the rank of professor, candidates must have at least five full years in rank at the associate professor level. Specific criteria for professor level in the Department of FST can be found here:https://provost.uga.edu/_resources/documents/food-science-and-technology-2018.pdf
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, And/or Certification
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Current or previous rank of professor with tenure. At least two years of higher education administrative experience is desirable. At least two years of experience at or with land-grant university activities and goals; At least two years of experience with the unique administrative structures, student demographics, and accreditation standards of US higher education institutions.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success and distinction in one or more of the disciplines in food science either in academic, government/regulatory or industry organizations. The ideal candidate will also have a transformational leadership style, utilizing engagement and open communication to facilitate positive change and impact. The ideal candidate will also have a demonstrated ability to secure extramural funding, including through institutional advancement and development.
Is this a Position of Trust?:
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No
Does this position require a P-Card? :
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :
No
Is driving a responsibility of this position?:
Yes
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:
Yes
Does This Position Have Security Access (e.g., Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, Or Access To Chemicals And Medications)
Yes
Credit And P-Card Policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Duties/Responsibilities
The Department Head provides leadership, advocacy, and vision for the department’s internationally recognized programs in teaching, research, Extension, and outreach at the Athens and Griffin campuses. Major responsibilities include:
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F2640P
Working Title
Department Head and Professor - Food Science & Technology
Department
CAES-Food Science & Technology
About The University Of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: The Department of FST is one of the core units in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). An undergraduate major in Food Science is offered with areas of emphasis in Food Processing, Food Microbiology, Food Chemistry, Nutritional Quality, Food Analysis, Quality Control, Governmental Regulation, and Food Product Development. Outstanding graduate programs leading to either the M.S. or Ph.D. degree are supported by a large graduate faculty with diverse research programs and broad disciplinary expertise. Graduate studies and research programs are characterized by strong interdepartmental and interdisciplinary ties. The Department hosts a large Extension program focused on applied research to address the needs of farmers and the public in Georgia and worldwide. FST offers an undergraduate B.S. degree in Food Science & Technology, a thesis-based M.S. in in Food Science & Technology and a Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology. Additionally, FST offers an online Masters in Food Technology (MFT). With nearly 28 faculty and over 100 graduate students across the Athens and Griffin campuses, we are one of the largest departments of FST in the U.S. The department is recognized internationally for its comprehensive and integrative research and outreach portfolio, spanning basic, translational, and applied programs. The Center for Food Safety (CFS) and the Food Product Innovation and Commercialization center (FoodPIC) are core units within the Department of FST.
ABOUT THE COLLEGE: The mission of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is to seek, verify, and apply knowledge related to agriculture and the environment, and to disseminate this knowledge through student education and public outreach programs. CAES is among the best and most established colleges of agriculture in the U.S. In its classrooms, its Agricultural Experiment Stations, and its statewide network of UGA Cooperative Extension offices, the faculty, and staff of CAES are dedicated to discovering, teaching, and delivering the science required for healthy living to flourish in Georgia. Agricultural and environmental sciences are only as important as the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the water and air around you. To improve the quality and guard the safety of life’s necessities, the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has gathered world- renowned scientists and exceptional students. See https://www.caes.uga.edu/ for additional information.
College/Unit/Department Website
https://foodscience.caes.uga.edu/
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
TRS or ORP
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Advertised Salary
Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience
Anticipated Start Date
08/01/2026
Job Posting Date
01/23/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions To Applicants
Inquiries should be directed to Dr. Manpreet Singh, Chair of the Search Committee (manpreet@uga.edu).
Materials to be uploaded include i) a formal letter stating the applicant’s qualifications for the position and a statement of leadership philosophy with specific examples of how it has been demonstrated; ii) curriculum vitae; and iii) names and contact information of four professional references (referees will not be contacted without further communication with the applicant). Selected applicants will be required to submit transcripts and a background investigation demonstrating eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia.
Applications received by March 15, 2026, are assured full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Location of Vacancy:
Athens Area
EEO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title
Professor
Faculty Rank
Professor
Contract Type
Academic (9 mo.)
Tenure Status
Tenured
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate in food science and technology or related field.
Position Summary
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences seeks an accomplished, energetic and visionary leader for the position of Professor and Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (FST; https://foodscience.caes.uga.edu/). This is a 9-month academic-year appointment with a guarantee of 2 months of additional summer salary, tenured position and the successful candidate must qualify for the rank of Professor consistent with Food Science and Technology Promotion and Tenure Unit criteria found here: https://provost.uga.edu/_resources/documents/food-science-and-technology-2018.pdf
The department head has oversight over field units supporting research, teaching, and outreach. This position is highly engaged with the various commodity groups and other stakeholders of departmental programs. The Department Head will advocate for FST within and outside the university, and actively secure resources to strengthen its mission. The best-fit individual will foster excellence in teaching, research, and extension and encourage a positive, collegial climate and participatory decision-making process within the department. FST’s next leader is expected to build upon the existing momentum within the food sciences for departmental growth and unification, student training, procuring extramural funding and strengthening research, teaching, extension, outreach, and alumni engagement.
Additional Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and/or Extension is required; Record of academic and/or professional achievement commensurate with a tenured appointment at the rank of professor; Evidence of visionary leadership and strategic planning in academic, industry, regulatory, or government organizations; Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the three missions of a land grant university: excellence in teaching, research, and extension/outreach; Demonstrated experience (at least one to two years) in the leadership of people, projects, and consensus building; Effectiveness in personnel management, interpersonal and stakeholder communication, and financial and physical resources; Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Candidates must be approved for tenure upon appointment before hire. To be eligible for tenure upon appointment, candidates must be appointed as a full professor, have been tenured at a prior institution, and bring a demonstrable national reputation to the institution. To be considered for the rank of professor, candidates must have at least five full years in rank at the associate professor level. Specific criteria for professor level in the Department of FST can be found here:https://provost.uga.edu/_resources/documents/food-science-and-technology-2018.pdf
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, And/or Certification
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Current or previous rank of professor with tenure. At least two years of higher education administrative experience is desirable. At least two years of experience at or with land-grant university activities and goals; At least two years of experience with the unique administrative structures, student demographics, and accreditation standards of US higher education institutions.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success and distinction in one or more of the disciplines in food science either in academic, government/regulatory or industry organizations. The ideal candidate will also have a transformational leadership style, utilizing engagement and open communication to facilitate positive change and impact. The ideal candidate will also have a demonstrated ability to secure extramural funding, including through institutional advancement and development.
Is this a Position of Trust?:
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No
Does this position require a P-Card? :
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :
No
Is driving a responsibility of this position?:
Yes
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:
Yes
Does This Position Have Security Access (e.g., Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, Or Access To Chemicals And Medications)
Yes
Credit And P-Card Policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Duties/Responsibilities
The Department Head provides leadership, advocacy, and vision for the department’s internationally recognized programs in teaching, research, Extension, and outreach at the Athens and Griffin campuses. Major responsibilities include:
- Leadership of all departmental programs and administrative responsibility for strategic planning, fiscal management, and human resources including recruitment; development and advancement; and retention of faculty, staff, and students.
- Building upon the strong existing foundation, provide vision and leadership that continues the rise, prominence and reputation of the UGA/CAES Food Science and Technology department. Ensure that strength and opportunity exist across all three mission areas of teaching, research and extension, as well across all three UGA/CAES campus locations of Athens and Griffin.
- Support and enhance the department’s interdisciplinary and integrative research and Extension programs in fundamental and applied Food Science. Provide coaching and mentoring for faculty and support their grantsmanship and professional development. This position is also responsible for annual faculty performance evaluations.
- Lead and oversee the department’s teaching and academic programs. Encourage a culture that supports excellence in student mentoring and success. Assign faculty teaching responsibilities and oversee the development and evaluation of academic programs and curricula.
- Administer and manage the allocation of departmental resources (fiscal, human, facilities, and capital) at the Athens campus; and, likewise, in collaboration with the CAES Assistant Deans and the departmental Research, Extension, and Instruction Coordinators – at the Griffin campus. Play a proactive role in increasing extramural support for these programs; assist and mentor faculty in obtaining gifts, grants, and contracts.
- Administer, coordinate, and develop a culture that supports student mentoring and success in next-generation science, inclusive of our world-recognized faculty and staff. Foster positive working relationships among faculty, staff, and students within and outside the department.
- Participate in the development of policy and strategic planning in the college. Maintain relationships with the other disciplines at the university, agricultural organizations, state, and federal agencies, and with leaders of the agricultural industry.
- As a tenured FST faculty member, actively contribute to the research, Extension, and/or teaching mission of the department.
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