Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, Soybean Breeding

Position: The Division of Plant Science and Technology in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri (MU) seeks an Assistant/Associate/Full Professor in soybean breeding. This is a 9-month, tenure-track faculty position, with appointments in research, teaching, and service. This position is located at the T.E. “Jake” Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center, which provides extensive field-testing capabilities, and opportunities for multidisciplinary collaborations with research scientists, extension specialists, and stakeholders. At the Associate or Full Professor rank, the “David Haggard Endowed Professor in Soybean Breeding” is associated with this position.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will lead a large and diverse soybean research and breeding program at the Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center focused on cultivar development and germplasm enhancement. The primary goal is to ensure a steady flow of new and improved soybean cultivars that address the needs of Missouri and U.S. soybean producers. Research focus for this position will include, but is not limited to, the incorporation of genetic diversity, pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and desirable seed quality attributes into high-yielding backgrounds. The successful candidate will be expected to lead a large team and oversee the entire breeding program, including design of all experiments and trials, planting, plot management, harvesting, data collection and analysis, winter nursery operations, line advancement towards release, and engaging with commercialization efforts. An integrative and collaborative approach to research is expected that will include collaborations with breeders and researchers and extension specialists on the main campus in Columbia as well as scientists at the national and international level. Industry and stakeholder support for this position is exceptional, and the successful candidate will be expected to develop an extramurally funded research program (funded for example by USDA, United Soybean Board, Mid-south Soybean Board, Northcentral Soybean Research Program, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, or private entities). Responsibilities will also include the publication of peer-reviewed journal articles, invention disclosures, and reports. The successful candidate will regularly share research results with the farming community in the state.  The successful candidate is expected to develop one undergraduate course within the wider area of the candidate´s expertise: e.g., hemp genetics and breeding, and to develop a graduate course on data analysis for plant breeding. In addition, it is expected that the candidate recruits and mentors graduate students for the program.

Minimum Qualifications: The successful candidate must have an earned PhD in plant breeding or a closely related discipline.

Candidates will be evaluated on:  Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Effective oral and written communications skills, and the commitment to fostering a diverse and collaborative work environment are also required. Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and have interest and ability to work in a collaborative interdisciplinary environment. Postdoctoral training in conducting applied research and evidence of success in obtaining extramural grant support are desirable.

Salary and Benefits:  Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. This position is eligible for University benefits.  The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts.  For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Application Deadline:  Candidate screening will begin November 15, 2022, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Application Procedure:

Apply online https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings Job ID 44059.  Be prepared to upload: 1) cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience pertinent to the responsibilities of the position, description of qualifications, and career goals; 2) copies of all graduate level transcripts; 3) contact information for four letters of reference; 4) curriculum vitae, which should include a biographical sketch, service, and a complete list of publications and grants, and 5) a research philosophy in which the candidate´s vision for a soybean breeding program is described.

Candidates applying for this position are required to provide a statement addressing how they would utilize their former experience and knowledge to promote diversity and inclusion at the university and how that commitment would add value to the Division of Plant Science and Technology.

Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Human Resource Services at (573) 882-7976 or muhrs@missouri.edu.  Questions regarding the position should be directed to Felix Fritschi (Search Committee Chair; fritschif@missouri.edu). 

Diversity Commitment

The University of Missouri is fully committed to achieving the goal of a diverse and inclusive academic community of faculty, staff and students. We seek individuals who are committed to this goal and our core campus values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action employer that is fully committed to achieving a diverse faculty and staff. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. For more information, call the Associate Vice Chancellor of Human Resource Services/Affirmative Action officer at 573-882-4256. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Disability Inclusion and ADA Compliance Manager at 573-884-7278.