Assistant Professor – Agriculture (Soil Science)

Job Description of Assistant Professor (Soil Science)

Position Title: Assistant Professor – Soil Science

Department: School of Agricultural Sciences

Employment Type: Full-time / Regular / Contractual (as applicable)

Position Summary

• The Assistant Professor in Soil Science will be responsible for:-
• Teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses, conducting high-quality research, guiding students, and contributing to departmental academic activities.
• The candidate should have strong knowledge in soil fertility, soil chemistry, soil microbiology, agronomy–soil interactions, and modern analytical techniques.

Key Responsibilities:-

Teaching

• Teach UG and PG courses in Soil Science (e.g., Soil Fertility & Nutrient Management, Soil Chemistry, Soil Physics, Soil Microbiology, Soil and Water Conservation, Soil Survey and Classification etc.).
• Prepare lesson plans, teaching materials, course packets (PPTs), CHO, laboratory manuals, and evaluation methods.
• Conduct practical classes, field demonstrations, and experiential learning modules.
• Evaluate student performance through assignments, quizzes, exams, and viva-voce.
• Mentor students for academic progress and career guidance.

Research

• Conduct independent and collaborative research in Soil Science and related interdisciplinary areas.
• Publish research papers in high-quality peer-reviewed journals as per the requirements of UGC.
• Prepare and submit externally funded research proposals (ICAR, DST, DBT, ICSSR, RKVY, etc.).
• Guide B.Sc./M.Sc./Ph.D. students for research projects.
• Participate in field trials, soil testing programs, and technology development.
• Maintain compost, Vermicompost units.

Extension & Outreach

• Participate in farmer training programs, soil health campaigns, and awareness activities.
• Contribute in Club and societies as per requirements
• Provide expert advice on soil management, fertilizer use, and sustainable agriculture practices.
• Collaborate with KVKs, ATARIs, state departments, and industries for field demonstrations.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Assist in curriculum development and academic planning.
• Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and accreditation work (NAAC, ICAR, NIRF etc.).
• Maintain student records, laboratory equipment, and academic documentation.
• Contribute to institute events, conferences, workshops, and seminars.

Required Qualifications

Essential:

• Master’s degree in Soil Science/Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry with minimum 55% marks (or equivalent).
• Ph.D. in Soil Science (as per UGC/ICAR regulations) OR NET qualification (ICAR/UGC).

Desirable:

• Teaching/research experience at college or university level.
• Publications in reputed journals.
• Experience in soil testing, nutrient management, GIS/remote sensing, instrumentation, or analytical labs.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong subject knowledge and laboratory skills.
• Ability to handle soil analysis instruments (pH meter, EC meter, spectrophotometer, AAS/ICP, etc.).
• Research aptitude, scientific writing, and data analysis skills.
• Good communication and presentation abilities.