Job Description

About Murray State
Murray State blends educational opportunities found at research institutions with collaborative interactions among students, faculty and staff found at smaller universities. Students receive personalized attention from supportive faculty and staff as the University offers a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Murray State University places our highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching, blending the range of educational opportunities often experienced at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities.

Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location Murray, KY
Employment Term Academic Year
Position Type Faculty (Tenure-Track)
Department Nutrition and Dietetics
Anticipated Start Date August 2026
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will teach in the ACEND-accredited undergraduate and graduate Nutrition and Dietetics programs, demonstrating a strong commitment to student learning, mentorship, and professional excellence. Primary responsibilities include teaching and developing courses in foundational nutrition, community nutrition, and foodservice management. The candidate will design and deliver engaging course content, assess student learning outcomes, and provide hands-on supervision in the student-run meal production lab. Oversight of the industrial kitchen and food science laboratory is required to ensure proper care, safety, and compliance with sanitation and operational standards. Additional duties include contributing to curriculum and program development; maintaining professional credentials; and participating in departmental, university, and community engagement initiatives.

The successful candidate will provide academic and career advising, mentor students through program completion, and assist with responsibilities of the ACEND-accredited DPD and DI programs. Candidates holding a terminal degree will be expected to develop an independent and collaborative research and scholarly activity plan.

Applicants should demonstrate knowledge of higher education organization and administration; the ability to work effectively in a diverse, dynamic, and team-oriented environment; and the capacity for sound judgment, effective communication, and timely follow-up. Strong interpersonal, written, and organizational skills, along with professionalism and civility in all interactions, are essential.
Minimum Education Requirements
A minimum of a Master’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field is required.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Applicant must be credentialed as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist/Registered Dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Candidates who are eligible to sit for the RD exam at the time of application will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Successful applicants must have attained state licensure (LD) via the Kentucky Board of Licensure by appointment date or within six months of hire date.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Note: If the successful candidate is master’s prepared, the position will be filled as a non-tenure track, instructor. If a successful candidate holds a terminal degree, the position will be filled as a tenure-track, assistant professor and have responsibilities commensurate with an assistant professor, to include research and creative activities.