Assistant Professor Jobs at University of Kentucky with Visa Sponsorship
Assistant Professor jobs at University of Kentucky span a wide range of academic departments, and the university has a well-established process for supporting international faculty through visa sponsorship. If you're targeting a tenure-track or visiting position, UK actively works with candidates who need H-1B visa or permanent residency pathways.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Title: Assistant Professor, Extension Title Series
Requisition Number: FE04916
Department Name: 81500:Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Work Location: Lexington, KY
Type of Position: Faculty
Position Time Status: Full-Time
Tenure Track Status: Tenure Track
Required Education
Candidates must hold a terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DCN) in the field of dietetics or human nutrition (or a related field).
Required Related Experience
Evidence of expertise in applied research, strong written and oral communication skills to translate science for technical and non-technical audiences, and experience in community engagement is expected.
Required License/Registration/Certification
NA
Job Summary
Location: Lexington, KY
The Position:
The Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a full-time, twelve-month, tenure-eligible assistant professor position in the Extension Title Series. The position has an expected distribution of effort (DOE) of approximately 75% Extension, 20% instruction, and 5% service through annual agreement with the Department Chair. The anticipated start date is January 1, 2027.
The University of Kentucky is a Land-Grant University that holds a tripartite mission of research, teaching, and extension. Extension refers to sharing research and innovations with the people, organizations, and communities of the Commonwealth through outreach initiatives, such as the Cooperative Extension. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is the most comprehensive outreach and engagement program of the University. This Extension faculty position is based on campus and will support communities in Kentucky with research and training that addresses local needs.
The successful candidate is expected to:
1) develop, implement, and evaluate innovative nutrition programming that addresses the health and wellness needs of Kentucky;
2) secure funding to conduct applied research that supports extension activities;
3) provide educational leadership and expertise for the Cooperative Extension Service and statewide networks related to nutrition’s role in health and wellness;
4) build mutually beneficial relationships with a variety of stakeholders to co-produce and implement innovations that address nutrition, health, and wellness issues;
5) support experiential learning opportunities for students through outreach and engagement efforts;
6) exhibit excellence in classroom instruction at both the undergraduate and graduate levels (instruction includes Advanced Nutrition and/or Nutritional Biochemistry);
7) support and expand multidisciplinary opportunities with other units in the college and at the university.
For more information about the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, please visit https://dhn.mgcafe.uky.edu/.
Qualifications
Candidates must hold a terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DCN) in the field of dietetics or human nutrition (or a related field). RDN required with licensure, or eligibility for licensure, in Kentucky is preferred. Evidence of expertise in applied research, strong written and oral communication skills to translate science for technical and non-technical audiences, and experience in community engagement is expected. As well, evidence of potential for grantsmanship, publication, and presentations at regional and national conferences should be provided. Evidence related to instruction and mentoring of undergraduate and/or graduate students is expected. The main areas of teaching can vary and be determined by department needs and candidate experience and expertise; however, a professional background or experience teaching in nutrition biochemistry and/or advanced nutrition (micronutrients) is preferred.
Salary and Benefits
Salary is commensurate with training and experience. Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and comes with many rewards, focusing on your total wellbeing and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The university generously contributes to employees’ retirement plans, medical coverage, and life insurance. In addition, UK offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance, additional retirement plans and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: www.uky.edu/HR/benefits.
Application
Application materials should be in PDF format and include:
- Application cover letter describing background and expertise specifically related to this position at the University of Kentucky
- Career CV
- Statement of extension and applied research interests (1-2 pages; upload under Special Request)
- Statement of teaching (1-2 pages; upload under Special Request)
- Names and contact information for three references (upload under Specific Request)
Application materials should be submitted by August 1, 2026.
The Environment
The department’s Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) and Accelerated Coordinated Program in Dietetics (ACP) are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). In addition, the department offers a BS in Human Nutrition, MS in Nutrition and Food Systems (with fully online option), two undergraduate certificates (Nutrition Issues in Physical Activity and Food Systems and Hunger Studies), and one graduate certificate (Applied Nutrition and Culinary Medicine). The dietetics and human nutrition curriculum incorporates high-impact experiential learning experiences including internships, undergraduate research, and international and domestic study programs. The Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition has a rich tradition of community engagement and integration in Extension projects throughout the Commonwealth. Faculty service includes service on departmental and college committees and participation in student-focused events such as Commencement.
The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (MGCAFE) is fulfilling the land-grant promise of educational excellence, civic leadership, transformational research, and shared knowledge serving the common good. We serve the people of the Commonwealth and across the world through education, outreach, service, and research by finding solutions to improve lives today and create a sustainable future. We integrate teaching, research, and extension in our work. We recruit, retain, and graduate students who are competent, responsible, and workforce ready.
For more than 130 years, MGCAFE has provided research results to the community. From traditional labs and research farms to high-tech diagnostic and research centers, we offer science-based, practical solutions that affect the everyday lives of Kentuckians and people around the world. Our Cooperative Extension programs are engaged in Kentucky’s 120 counties, identifying and addressing needs not only in agriculture and natural resources, but also 4-H and youth development, family and consumer sciences, as well as community & economic development.
Questions and Nominations Contact
Courtney Luecking
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition
University of Kentucky
859-257-9047
Courtney.Luecking@uky.edu
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No
Preferred Education/Experience
RDN required with licensure, or eligibility for licensure, in Kentucky is preferred; evidence of potential for grantsmanship, publication, and presentations at regional and national conferences should be provided. Evidence related to instruction and mentoring of undergraduate and/or graduate students is expected.
Deadline to Apply
Open Until Filled Yes
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
Job Title: Assistant Professor, Extension Title Series
Requisition Number: FE04916
Department Name: 81500:Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Work Location: Lexington, KY
Type of Position: Faculty
Position Time Status: Full-Time
Tenure Track Status: Tenure Track
Required Education
Candidates must hold a terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DCN) in the field of dietetics or human nutrition (or a related field).
Required Related Experience
Evidence of expertise in applied research, strong written and oral communication skills to translate science for technical and non-technical audiences, and experience in community engagement is expected.
Required License/Registration/Certification
NA
Job Summary
Location: Lexington, KY
The Position:
The Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a full-time, twelve-month, tenure-eligible assistant professor position in the Extension Title Series. The position has an expected distribution of effort (DOE) of approximately 75% Extension, 20% instruction, and 5% service through annual agreement with the Department Chair. The anticipated start date is January 1, 2027.
The University of Kentucky is a Land-Grant University that holds a tripartite mission of research, teaching, and extension. Extension refers to sharing research and innovations with the people, organizations, and communities of the Commonwealth through outreach initiatives, such as the Cooperative Extension. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is the most comprehensive outreach and engagement program of the University. This Extension faculty position is based on campus and will support communities in Kentucky with research and training that addresses local needs.
The successful candidate is expected to:
1) develop, implement, and evaluate innovative nutrition programming that addresses the health and wellness needs of Kentucky;
2) secure funding to conduct applied research that supports extension activities;
3) provide educational leadership and expertise for the Cooperative Extension Service and statewide networks related to nutrition’s role in health and wellness;
4) build mutually beneficial relationships with a variety of stakeholders to co-produce and implement innovations that address nutrition, health, and wellness issues;
5) support experiential learning opportunities for students through outreach and engagement efforts;
6) exhibit excellence in classroom instruction at both the undergraduate and graduate levels (instruction includes Advanced Nutrition and/or Nutritional Biochemistry);
7) support and expand multidisciplinary opportunities with other units in the college and at the university.
For more information about the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, please visit https://dhn.mgcafe.uky.edu/.
Qualifications
Candidates must hold a terminal degree (PhD, EdD, DCN) in the field of dietetics or human nutrition (or a related field). RDN required with licensure, or eligibility for licensure, in Kentucky is preferred. Evidence of expertise in applied research, strong written and oral communication skills to translate science for technical and non-technical audiences, and experience in community engagement is expected. As well, evidence of potential for grantsmanship, publication, and presentations at regional and national conferences should be provided. Evidence related to instruction and mentoring of undergraduate and/or graduate students is expected. The main areas of teaching can vary and be determined by department needs and candidate experience and expertise; however, a professional background or experience teaching in nutrition biochemistry and/or advanced nutrition (micronutrients) is preferred.
Salary and Benefits
Salary is commensurate with training and experience. Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and comes with many rewards, focusing on your total wellbeing and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The university generously contributes to employees’ retirement plans, medical coverage, and life insurance. In addition, UK offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance, additional retirement plans and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: www.uky.edu/HR/benefits.
Application
Application materials should be in PDF format and include:
- Application cover letter describing background and expertise specifically related to this position at the University of Kentucky
- Career CV
- Statement of extension and applied research interests (1-2 pages; upload under Special Request)
- Statement of teaching (1-2 pages; upload under Special Request)
- Names and contact information for three references (upload under Specific Request)
Application materials should be submitted by August 1, 2026.
The Environment
The department’s Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) and Accelerated Coordinated Program in Dietetics (ACP) are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). In addition, the department offers a BS in Human Nutrition, MS in Nutrition and Food Systems (with fully online option), two undergraduate certificates (Nutrition Issues in Physical Activity and Food Systems and Hunger Studies), and one graduate certificate (Applied Nutrition and Culinary Medicine). The dietetics and human nutrition curriculum incorporates high-impact experiential learning experiences including internships, undergraduate research, and international and domestic study programs. The Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition has a rich tradition of community engagement and integration in Extension projects throughout the Commonwealth. Faculty service includes service on departmental and college committees and participation in student-focused events such as Commencement.
The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (MGCAFE) is fulfilling the land-grant promise of educational excellence, civic leadership, transformational research, and shared knowledge serving the common good. We serve the people of the Commonwealth and across the world through education, outreach, service, and research by finding solutions to improve lives today and create a sustainable future. We integrate teaching, research, and extension in our work. We recruit, retain, and graduate students who are competent, responsible, and workforce ready.
For more than 130 years, MGCAFE has provided research results to the community. From traditional labs and research farms to high-tech diagnostic and research centers, we offer science-based, practical solutions that affect the everyday lives of Kentuckians and people around the world. Our Cooperative Extension programs are engaged in Kentucky’s 120 counties, identifying and addressing needs not only in agriculture and natural resources, but also 4-H and youth development, family and consumer sciences, as well as community & economic development.
Questions and Nominations Contact
Courtney Luecking
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition
University of Kentucky
859-257-9047
Courtney.Luecking@uky.edu
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No
Preferred Education/Experience
RDN required with licensure, or eligibility for licensure, in Kentucky is preferred; evidence of potential for grantsmanship, publication, and presentations at regional and national conferences should be provided. Evidence related to instruction and mentoring of undergraduate and/or graduate students is expected.
Deadline to Apply
Open Until Filled Yes
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
See all 131+ Assistant Professor Jobs at University of Kentucky
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Assistant Professor Jobs at University of Kentucky.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Assistant Professor Jobs at University of Kentucky
Tailor your CV for U.S. academic standards
U.S. academic CVs differ from international formats. Include your teaching philosophy, publications list, grants, and course names explicitly. Hiring committees at research universities like UK evaluate these sections closely before extending interview invitations.
Target departments with active faculty searches
University of Kentucky posts Assistant Professor openings through its central HR portal and discipline-specific job boards. Search by department early in the fall cycle, when most tenure-track searches open, to avoid applying after shortlists have already formed.
Confirm sponsorship eligibility before your campus visit
During the offer stage, ask the hiring department directly whether the position qualifies for H-1B sponsorship and whether UK's legal team handles PERM filings for tenure-track roles. Getting clarity early prevents complications after you've accepted verbally.
Understand how J-1 and H-1B timelines differ
If UK initially places you on a J-1 scholar visa, be aware that a two-year home residency requirement may apply, affecting your ability to change to H-1B status later. Confirm with UK's international office whether your J-1 program carries this restriction.
Build your credential portfolio around specialty occupation criteria
USCIS requires H-1B petitions to demonstrate the role qualifies as a specialty occupation. For Assistant Professor positions, compile syllabi, research proposals, and your institutional appointment letter to support the employer's filing with clear evidence of degree-specific requirements.
Browse open Assistant Professor roles using Migrate Mate
Assistant Professor openings at UK span colleges from engineering to public health. Use Migrate Mate to filter roles by visa sponsorship type and department so you're applying to positions where sponsorship is already confirmed rather than guessing from job postings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Kentucky sponsor H-1B visas for Assistant Professors?
Yes, University of Kentucky sponsors H-1B visas for Assistant Professor positions, particularly for tenure-track and research-focused roles that qualify as specialty occupations under USCIS guidelines. UK's international faculty support office coordinates the petition process with the hiring department. You'll typically need a confirmed offer letter before the H-1B filing begins, and the department initiates sponsorship on your behalf.
How do I apply for Assistant Professor jobs at University of Kentucky?
Applications for Assistant Professor positions at University of Kentucky are submitted through UK's official HR portal, where each listing specifies required materials such as a cover letter, CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy. Some departments also request sample publications or diversity statements. You can also browse open roles filtered by visa sponsorship eligibility using Migrate Mate before applying directly through UK's system.
Which visa types does University of Kentucky use for Assistant Professor roles?
University of Kentucky sponsors several visa categories for Assistant Professor hires, including H-1B for specialty occupation roles, J-1 visa for visiting scholars and exchange faculty, TN visa for Canadian and Mexican nationals in qualifying academic fields, and F-1 OPT or CPT for recent graduates in postdoctoral or short-term appointments. For permanent residency, UK supports EB-2 and EB-3 filings for eligible tenure-track faculty.
What qualifications does University of Kentucky expect for Assistant Professor positions?
Most Assistant Professor roles at University of Kentucky require a completed doctoral degree in a relevant discipline, with the Ph.D. typically expected in hand before the start date. Research-focused departments also expect a demonstrated publication record, evidence of external funding potential, and a clear research agenda. Teaching experience and a teaching philosophy statement are standard requirements across colleges.
How do I plan my timeline if I need visa sponsorship for a faculty role at UK?
Faculty hiring cycles at University of Kentucky typically run from fall through late winter, with offers extended by February or March for positions starting the following August. If you need H-1B sponsorship, UK must file the petition before the USCIS April 1 cap-subject filing window or request a cap-exempt filing if you already hold H-1B status. Build at least three to four months of administrative lead time between your offer acceptance and your anticipated start date.