Assistant/Associate/Full Professor open-rank, Professor of Rural Sociologist/Human Geography

In November 2023, K-State launched the Kansas Water Institute, interdisciplinary and interinstitutional initiative to elevate the research, teaching, and engagement necessary to tackle our most pressing water resource challenges. With funds from a state appropriation, the Kansas Water Institute is embarking on an interdisciplinary thematic recruitment strategy to enhance K-State's water-related expertise.

This open rank position as a Rural Sociologist/Human Geographer involves conducting research and teaching with a focus on the social, cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics influencing water-related challenges in rural communities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fieldwork and expertise in mixed methods, such as interviews, surveys, and spatial analysis, to investigate rural community behaviors and the geographic dimensions of water issues. Responsibilities include mentoring and guiding students, fostering their development of research projects that explore key topics in rural sociology or human geography.

Welcome to the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work. We are a varied but interrelated set of disciplines that study our shared humanity. As a department, we help develop critical thinkers and strong social scientists while fostering a passion for understanding society. Sociology at Kansas State is a vibrant program focused on exploring the causes and consequences of important social issues. Our Anthropology Program equips students with the ability to identify and meet the challenges of the shifting cultural realities of our Nation and World. Social Workers help people deal with their relationships with others, and solve their personal, family, and community problems. The Criminology Program studies the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and the positive and negative aspects of our systematic responses to crime and delinquency.

This position is Hybrid eligible. This position is eligible for hybrid worksite. Work is performed partially remote and partially on employer premises or designated assignment location.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Assistant Professor - Ph.D. in Sociology or Human Geography or appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D.
• Associate Professor - Ph.D. in Sociology, Human Geography, or an appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D., and six or more years of academic experience and research, teaching and service record corresponding to appointment as Associate Professor.
• Professor - Ph.D. in Sociology, Human Geography, or an appropriate interdisciplinary Ph.D., and ten or more years of academic experience, a national or international reputation, and research, teaching and service record corresponding to appointment as Professor.

The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in rural sociology with history of published and/or funded research with a focus on the social, cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics influencing water-related challenges in rural communities

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

• CV
• Letter of interest that outlines qualifications for the position

Applications close on: November 15th, 2025

Salary commensurate and experience and level of appointment.