Human Sciences Extension and Outreach and the Department of Human Development and Family Studies within the College of Human Sciences seek applicants for an Assistant Professor (tenure-eligible, full-time, 12-month). Position responsibilities are 60% Extension and Outreach, 30% teaching, and 10% service.  The faculty member will foster education and outreach, lead research-and evidence-based programs in the priority areas of behavioral health in early childhood, and teach courses related to infant and early childhood mental and behavioral health. Iowa State University seeks candidates with demonstrated commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion who will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through extension and outreach, research, and teaching.

Human Sciences Extension and Outreach provides research-based information and education to help families make decisions that improve their lives. As the outreach arm of the College of Human Sciences, the faculty member will work with program specialists located across Iowa’s 99 counties to translate university research to practice for local individuals, families, employers, and communities. Proposed areas of focus for Extension and Outreach work will include (1) mental health risk reduction, (2) responding to the needs of young children impacted by acute and chronic trauma, and (3) mitigation of behavioral health disparities in underserved populations. The faculty member will develop and lead innovative educational offerings, programs, informational guides, and online materials to foster early childhood behavioral health by nurturing family and individual wellness and resilience. The faculty member will engage in scholarly and creative work including, but not limited to, (1) educational strategies, resources, and programs; (2) Extension and Outreach publications, displays and presentations; (3) grants and/or contracts written and awarded; (4) news releases, interviews with the mass media, and social media presence; and (5) refereed publications and presentations. Partnership in creation, implementation, and evaluation with on-campus faculty and staff and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach personnel is required. The position requires travel within the state (occasionally overnight), excellent oral and written communication skills, and an ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

The Department of Human Development and Family Studies strives to have a positive impact on the quality of life for individuals and families across the lifespan, as well as for schools and communities through research, teaching, Extension/outreach, and service. The department hosts five undergraduate majors, two graduate masters programs, and one PhD program. The faculty member will teach content courses in the Early Childhood Education licensure program and graduate Infant and Child Mental Health certificate. Mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, publishing work in peer reviewed journals, and presentations at professional meetings is expected. Opportunities include building upon collaborative networks among ISU, early childhood education providers, state agencies, schools, businesses and other organizations.