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Assistant/Associate Professor of Sensing and Data Analytics in Agricultural Entomology
The University of Tennessee
Application
Details
Posted: 31-Oct-25
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Type: Faculty
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Categories:
Research
Salary Details:
Competitive salary and start-up package
Required Education:
Doctorate
The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, invites applications for a 9-month tenure-track position at the assistant or associate professor level with a specialization in sensing and data analytics for agricultural entomology. This position is part of the Plant Ecosystem Resilience in a Changing Environment (PERCE) cluster hire, which focuses on developing data-driven solutions to address critical challenges in food security and environmental sustainability. We are seeking a dynamic and multidisciplinary scientist who will apply quantitative methods and computational tools to solve complex pest management problems in agriculture and/or forestry. The ideal candidate will be a leader in the rapidly advancing field of digital or “big data” entomology, with demonstrated expertise in utilizing large datasets to advance scientific understanding of insect biology, behavior, and their interactions with agricultural plants.
Research areas of particular interest include, but are not limited to:
Precision pest management to enhance agricultural sustainability and productivity
Novel sensing technologies and/or geospatial imaging for automating collection of data for insect species abundance, spatial population distribution, and plant/pest interactions
Pest risk assessment and developing agricultural decision support tools and outcome models
Automated monitoring and modeling of insects as vectors of plant disease and detecting breakdown of plant resistance to pests
Other applications of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) for agricultural entomology
Candidates will be expected to (1) establish and maintain an internationally recognized, externally funded, vibrant research program that addresses significant questions at the intersection of entomology and data science; (2) actively participate in interdisciplinary collaborations within the PERCE cluster, the Entomology and Plant Pathology department, and across the university and affiliated institutions; (3) publish high-impact, peer-reviewed scholarly research; (4) teach undergraduate and graduate courses in precision agriculture, ML/AI techniques in agriculture, and/or other topics in agricultural entomology; (5) mentor graduate and undergraduate students; and (6) contribute to departmental, college, and university service.
The ideal candidate for the PERCE cluster will embody a deeply collaborative mindset, prioritizing collegiality to achieve shared research and educational achievements. A transdisciplinary approach will be central to this role, encompassing large-scale grant proposals, joint publications, and innovative curricular programming. For early career faculty, PERCE offers a unique framework for professional development and mentorship within a rich multidisciplinary environment. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is seeking candidates committed to fostering an atmosphere where all members of the university community feel welcome and can thrive.
Research Context and Opportunities
The PERCE cluster represents a major institutional investment in sustainable and resilient agriculture and forestry systems. Faculty hired through this search will have access to:
Ten UT AgResearch and Education Centers across Tennessee, providing real-world testbeds for agricultural technology deployment
State-of-the-art computing resources, including high-performance computing (HPC) clusters and GPU resources for AI/ML research
Strong partnerships with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, including access to supercomputing facilities and collaborative research opportunities
The AI Tennessee Initiative, providing interdisciplinary connections and resources for AI research and education
Collaborative opportunities with faculty across Entomology and Plant Pathology, Computer Science, Plant Science, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, Microbiology, and other related departments
Access to extensive agricultural and forestry datasets from statewide research stations and industry partners
Required Qualification
PhD degree in Entomology, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related discipline at the time of appointment
Demonstrated expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data science research approaches applied to entomology
Strong publication recordcommensurate with current career status andthe rank of appointment
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated experience applying AI/ML or other quantitative data analysis techniques to agricultural or forestry systems
Track record of interdisciplinary collaboration
Experience with grant funding from agencies such as NSF, USDA, DOE, or similar
Industry partnerships or technology transfer experience
Familiarity with agricultural production systems, forest ecosystems, or related fields
Strong publication record commensurate with current career status and the rank of appointment
For an Appointment at the Assistant Professor rank:
Show potential for securing external funding for research programs
Show potential for participation in interdisciplinary teams
Show potential for effective teaching and student mentoring
For an Appointment at the Associate Professor rank:
Expected to have a competitively funded, nationally/internationally recognized research program
Demonstrated strong leadership potential
Effective, high-quality teaching skills
Effective mentorship of undergraduate or graduate students
The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology leads efforts to generate and share knowledge on insects, related arthropods, and plant and animal diseases that impact the quality of life for all Tennesseans. As the only academic unit in Tennessee dedicated to providing basic and applied knowledge on plant diseases and insect-related challenges affecting plants, animals, and humans, we offer unique opportunities for students. Through innovative research, hands-on learning, and impactful community outreach, our programs prepare future leaders to solve real-world problems and contribute to global scientific advancements.