Assistant Professor in Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture

clear aptitude and motivation to develop AI and data science capabilities in this rapidly advancing field.

This strategic hire aims to strengthen UMES’s capacity in applied research, innovation, teaching, and Extension programming in support of its 1890 land-grant mission. Candidates who already lead work in this space and those who show strong potential to grow into an impactful, collaborative program are encouraged to apply.

This is a 9-month, tenure-track assistant professor position with an anticipated appointment distribution of 45% research, 45% Extension, and 10% Teaching. The successful candidate is expected to develop a nationally recognized, externally funded program in artificial intelligence with relevance to agriculture.

About UMES: The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is an 1890 Land-Grant University located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with a mission to provide educational, research, and Extension leadership that advances agricultural innovation. The School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences (SANS) offers a collaborative environment where faculty work across disciplines (from biotechnology, animal sciences, and soil health to engineering and data science) to address challenges in food, energy, and environmental systems. UMES is on the Delmarva Peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, with the major metropolitan areas of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, and Philadelphia, PA, within easy travel distance.

Salary: $80,000-$95,000

Benefits: The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, as a University System of Maryland institution and a Maryland State agency, provides a comprehensive benefits package to all regular faculty and staff. The Office of Employee Benefits provides consultative services and assistance with benefits planning, enrollment, and changes. Eligible employees may participate in a variety of benefit plans including:

• Health insurance, including multiple medical plan options for employees and dependents offered through the State of Maryland Employee Benefits Division.
• Prescription drug, dental, and flexible spending accounts, and vision coverage.
• Retirement plans: mandatory enrollment in a state pension system or an Optional Retirement Plan with Fidelity or TIAA, Supplemental Retirement Accounts (TIAA, Fidelity, or MSRP-Nationwide) with $600 annual state match, Life Insurance (state sponsored MetLife, USM sponsored MetLife Plan, life insurance and long-term disability insurance).
• Tuition remission benefits for eligible employees and, subject to USM policies, spouses and dependents at University System of Maryland institutions.
• Leave benefits include paid sick leave (15 days), collegial (3 days per year), and paid holidays.
• Employee wellness and support resources and access to the State of Maryland wellness programs.

The University is committed to the success of incoming faculty. The successful candidate will be supported by capacity development funding, along with mentoring, collaborative grant development, and access to field and demonstration sites. Eligible employees may participate in the University System of Maryland benefits package.

The successful candidate will join a growing group of faculty working across agricultural and natural sciences, Extension, engineering, data science, and environmental systems, with opportunities to collaborate with UMES Extension professionals, the UMES Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Maryland Extension, USDA agencies, other 1890 and 1862 land-grant institutions, industry partners, and regional producers.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct applied and translational research leading to improved productivity, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship in agricultural systems
• Collaborate with UMES Extension professionals to translate research into practical tools, demonstrations, and stakeholder training
• Develop or contribute to competitive grant proposals and collaborative projects with UMES faculty, other institutions, and industry partners
• Engage in interdisciplinary teams across SANS and beyond to integrate AI and data-driven approaches into agricultural innovation

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. (completed or near completion) in Agricultural Engineering, Computer Science, Plant or Animal Science, Data Science, Statistics, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated experience with (or strong demonstrated potential and motivation to develop) data analytics, modeling, or AI applications in agriculture, natural resources, or allied fields.
• Evidence of research productivity and strong potential for program development
• Effective communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills

Qualifications: (Preferred)

• Experience working with AI/ML tools and field-deployed technologies (e.g., sensors, drones, or robotics)
• Experience working with Extension, farmers, or industry stakeholders
• Demonstrated success or strong potential in grant writing and collaborative research

Physical Demands:

• May require extended periods of standing, bending, stooping, sitting at desk.
• May require lifting.
• Requires communication with a variety of constituents externally and internally.
• Requires operation of a variety of office equipment.

Additional Job Details

Required Application Materials:

Screening of applications will be September 15, 2026. Qualified applicants must submit the following materials:

• A cover letter summarizing qualifications, describing interest in the position and alignment with the UMES land-grant mission
• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of research interests and future research plans (maximum 2 pages)
• Statement of teaching philosophy (1 page)
• Statement of Extension philosophy (1 page)
• Unofficial graduate transcripts
• Contact information for three professional references, current or past supervisor (references will not be contacted without prior consent).
• All applicants must apply using the new online application system. Please visit https://umd.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMES to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.
• Questions regarding the position responsibilities should be directed to Dr. Purushothaman Natarajan, Department of Agriculture, by email: PNatarajan@umes.edu

Best Consideration Date: September 15, 2026

Posting Close Date: N/A

Open Until Filled: Yes