Assistant Professor, Meat Science

Assistant Professor, Meat Science

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 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.

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is a Carnegie R1 (very high research activity) Doctoral/Research‑Extensive, Hispanic Serving, and state‑assisted institution. Located on a 1,850‑acre campus in Lubbock, Texas, the university enrolls over 40,000 students, including 33,000 undergraduates and 7,000 graduates. It is the flagship of the Texas Tech University System and is dedicated to preparing students to be ethical leaders for a diverse and globally competitive workforce.

The Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources includes departments of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Animal and Food Sciences, Landscape Architecture, Plant and Soil Science, and Veterinary Sciences, along with multiple research centers and institutes. The college maintains an active pursuit of the PRIME campaign, strengthening communities and inspiring prosperity for generations.

The Department of Animal and Food Sciences prepares ethical leaders and advances innovation in animal agriculture, food systems, equine, and companion animal science. It supports a vibrant community of research and teaching, including the Meat Science and Muscle Biology Program, which is nationally recognized for education, research, and outreach.

• 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 aligned 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.

• Ph.D. in Animal Science, Food Science, or closely related field, with emphasis in meat science, muscle foods, and/or muscle biology (degree completed by the start date).
• Demonstrated research experience in meat science or…