Research Assistant Professor/Research Associate Professor(Horticulture/Pomologist)

Job Title Research Assistant Professor/Research Associate Professor (Horticulture/Pomologist) Agency Prairie View A&M University Department Cooperative Agricultural Research Center Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Prairie View, Texas Job Type Staff Job Description A Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H‑1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Texas A&M University will not pay this fee; candidates requiring sponsorship should consult private counsel. A state moratorium on new H‑1B petitions, effective January 27, 2026, may affect future employment if sponsorship is required. This principal investigator position establishes a new pomology research program focused on niche fruit and nut tree species suitable for growth and research in Gov Bill and Vara Daniel Farm and Ranch at PVAMU. The incumbent plans, reviews, administers, and implements biochemical and biotechnological aspects of the CAFNR research mission, guides the university’s higher‑education mandate, and contributes to teaching at the land‑grant institution. Responsibilities Establish and maintain a world‑class research program focused on innovative fruit and nut crop production systems that support orchard systems suited to Texas climate and soils, addressing cultivars, propagation, pest management, fruit quality, post‑harvest physiology, and climate resilience. Acquire external grants to support the program through collaborations with internal and external partners. Establish and maintain an orchard showcasing adapted fruit/nut species and use it as a training site for students, communities, and home gardeners. Teach a course with laboratory and field exercises related to pomology. Train graduate and undergraduate students in fruit/nut production‑related research and mentor postdoctoral researchers. Publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences. Collaborate with PVAMU Extension on outreach activities and fact sheet development. Strengthen plant science research in CAFNR by enhancing research infrastructure, capabilities, and acquiring equipment. Participate in college‑wide events, activities, and serve on committees. Perform other duties as assigned. Required Education & Experience Doctorate degree in Horticulture with a focus in Pomology or a closely related discipline. Six years of related experience in fruit/nut crop production. Evidence of scholarly productivity, including peer‑reviewed publications and extension materials. Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Demonstrated research expertise in fruit production research and managing fruit tree farms. Demonstrated ability to acquire external research grants. Ability to publish in peer‑reviewed journals. Ability to develop clear short‑term and long‑term research programs addressing major issues in fruit crop production. Experience conducting interdisciplinary and collaborative research. Demonstrated experience in extension, outreach, and stakeholder engagement. Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others, exhibiting collegiality. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr AgHires