Department: School of Agricultural and Food Sciences

Brief information about the School of Agricultural and Food Science at ADA University

ADA University is closely aligned with the country’s strategic vision, where the agricultural and food sectors play a pivotal role in driving the transition toward a diversified, non-oil economy. By integrating advanced technologies and innovative research, ADA University supports sustainable development and fosters modernization within these key sectors, contributing to long-term economic growth and resilience.

The School of Agricultural and Food Sciences (SAFS) is born from a partnership between ADA University and the University of Bologna, within the broader Italy-Azerbaijan University initiative. SAFS offers bachelor's, master's, and non-degree certificate programs that empower students to become changemakers in the fields of agriculture and food. Rooted in cutting-edge research and co-designed with public institutions, industry leaders, and local communities, our programs tackle the most pressing challenges of our time - from sustainable farming to global food security. Graduates will gain foundational disciplinary knowledge and practical experience - thanks to fundamental courses and the learning-by-doing educational approach.

In September 2024, SAFS opens its doors to its first cohort of students, ready to shape the future of food and agriculture.

More information about SAFS can be found at https://www.ada.edu.az/en/schools/safs 

Why applying for this position

The School of Agricultural and Food Sciences is a center of continuous education and innovation, where students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the country’s development goals. The School aims to cultivate a new generation of agricultural scientists, food experts, and sustainability leaders who actively engage in shaping the future of the nation by sharing and realizing its vision.

To accomplish this, the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences collaborates closely with public institutions to promote coordinated efforts toward national progress—identifying priorities, developing projects, and anticipating future challenges. Furthermore, the School works with local communities to foster development beyond Baku and partners with international organizations to create a multicultural learning environment and enhance its global standing.

Through this ambitious program, joining SAFS offers a unique opportunity for academic growth and active participation within a vibrant, international community of professionals dedicated to advancing agriculture and food systems.
Brief description of responsibilities:  

Principal responsibilities include teaching undergraduate courses. Candidates must have a potential or demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence, scholarly research and publication in peer reviewed journals, and academic engagement.  

Qualifications:

• Candidates for Assistant Professor must have a Ph.D. in Animal Science or related fields in hand from an accredited institution or have an anticipated completion date of August 1, 2026 or sooner from an accredited institution.

Applicants are requested to submit a letter of motivation (maximum one page) clearly articulating their future ambitions and the distinctive contribution they would offer to the development of the School. The application should also include a comprehensive curriculum vitae, a portfolio of selected student work (where applicable), a complete list of publications, and PDFs to three representative publications in international IF journals. Candidates are further invited to provide a summary of teaching evaluations, where available. The contact information of three references - preferably international - should be also sent to [email protected]

A strong command of English is required; international experience will be considered an advantage; Bachelor, Master and PhD abroad will be prioritized.

• Candidates for Associate Professor must have a Ph.D., evidence of quality scholarship and at least 5 years of academic experience.

Applicants are requested to submit a letter of motivation (maximum one page) clearly articulating their academic vision, future ambitions, and the distinctive contribution they intend to make to the strategic development and international profile of the School. The application should also include a comprehensive curriculum vitae, a portfolio of selected student work (where applicable), a complete list of publications, and links or PDFs of up to three representative publications. Candidates are further invited to provide a summary of teaching evaluations, where available. The contact information of three references - preferably international - should be also sent to [email protected] .

A strong command of English is required; international experience is required; Bachelor, Master and PhD abroad will be prioritized.

The information provided below are purely indicative and intended to offer a clearer understanding of the position

Details of the job position

• Programme: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
• Year: 1st
• Disciplinary Area: Animal Science
• Courses (tbc): Animal Science
• Semester: Tbc
• Start date: Tbc

Description of the Disciplinary Area

Animal Science is concerned with the study of the biological, physiological, genetic, nutritional, and management aspects of animals, particularly those of agricultural and economic importance. It encompasses the principles of animal production, reproduction, health, welfare, and behavior, integrating knowledge from life sciences and applied disciplines to improve productivity, sustainability, and ethical standards. The field also addresses the efficient use of resources, environmental impact, and the quality and safety of animal-derived products. Through interdisciplinary approaches, Animal Science supports innovation and sustainability across livestock systems, from breeding and rearing to processing and final utilization.

Bachelor BSAS

This programme equips you with the knowledge and skills to address key challenges in animal production, including food safety and quality, animal welfare, disease management, and environmental sustainability.

You will explore the One Health approach, understanding the connections between animal, human, and environmental health, as well as the impacts of climate change on livestock systems.

The programme provides a solid scientific foundation and specialised knowledge in animal production, health, nutrition, and precision livestock technologies. Through laboratory activities, internships, and collaboration with industry and institutions, you will gain practical experience and prepare for a career in the animal production sector.

Expected employment areas 

• Government and regional institutions
• Livestock and agri-food sector enterprises
• Genetic breeding and seed production centers
• Feed mills, dairy plants, and slaughterhouses
• Professional and industry associations
• Laboratories for animal feed and animal-origin product control

Major courses 

• Animal Anatomy 
• Animal Genetic Improvement
• Epidemiology and Veterinary Parasitology
• Agronomy and Herbaceous Cultivations
• Precision Livestock Technologies
• Animal Reproduction, Welfare and Ethics
• Poultry Production
• One Health Policy
• Aquaculture
• Microbiology Applied to Animal-based Productions

Potential courses related to the position

Anatomy

The course provides knowledge on morphology and biology of animals of veterinary medical interest, considering also comparative, topographic and applicative aspects. At the end of the course students are able to:

• understand the biology of vertebrates of veterinary interest in various fields, from histology and embryology to veterinary physiology and topographic anatomy;
• understand the systematic and comparative anatomy of species of veterinary interest, veterinary anatomical and histological methodologies.

Physiology

The course provides an oversight on the functions of different cellular types and animals organs of veterinary interest. At the end of the course the students are able to:

• understand the fundamental mechanisms that regulate cellular function and intercellular communication strategies;
• analyze digestive strategies in different species in order to build the theoretical foundations of animal nutrition and feeding.

Animal Genetic Improvement

The course provides basics knowledge on the methods and procedures for the evaluation and selection of reproducers to carry out genetic improvement of the in the main species of zootechnical interest. At the end of the course the students are able to:

• understand normative and legislative basis of selection;
• analyze animal genetic resources;
• apply biotechnologies related to genetic improvement.

The entire list of courses offered at Ada for the Bachelor of Science in Animal Science is available here: https://www.ada.edu.az/en/schools/safs/programs/animal-science