Job description
As part of the RISE initiative (see https://rise.wisc.edu/), the Department of Food and Nutritional Science (FSN) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor or Associate Professor (with tenure) position with expertise in the processing, or characterization of functional components in milk or dairy foods like cheese or approaches to improve the environmental or economic sustainability of dairy processing.
Areas of focus could include, but are not limited to, the identification and characterization of functional dairy components, identification and characterization of bioactive metabolites that are generated through fermentation, processing and digestion processes of cheese and fermented dairy products, the discovery and creation of products containing dairy ingredients targeted towards personalized nutrition applications; ultimately these efforts would lead to impactful dairy product discoveries, uses, and economic impacts. Research that provides value to consumer health and dairy product development, or economic and environmental sustainability, are also of great interest.
RISE-THRIVE will focus on strengthening UW-Madison’s investments and leadership in two distinct yet complementary areas: the science of immunology and the study of the healthspan, or the number of years a person is not only alive but healthy. This position offers an outstanding opportunity to participate in interdisciplinary research, influence dairy food manufacturing, and teach in a world-class academic setting.
Successful candidates will:
o Hold a Ph.D. in Food Science, Food Engineering, Nutritional Sciences, or related fields.
o Demonstrate capability or potential for excellence in research, teaching, and outreach.
o Demonstrate research in areas such as milk characterization, cheese technology, identification and quantification of metabolites and bioactives, clinical studies, and advanced processing technologies; skills may include AI, data analysis, techno-economic analysis, molecular identification, large datasets, and complex problem-solving.
o Demonstrate a record of, or potential for competitive funding, e.g., USDA, NSF, NIH.
o Have strong communication and collaboration skills which will be assessed via written work on CV, statements submitted, and interactions during the interview process.
How to apply
Applications must be received through UW-Madison’s online application system. See “Jobs at UW” (http://jobs.wisc.edu; job requisition#: JR10012242. The deadline for assuring full consideration is August 30, 2026; the position will remain open, and applications may be considered until the position is filled.
