Description

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 Research Professor in soybean breeding. This is a 12-month, non-tenure-track faculty position, with a 90% research and 10% service appointment. This position is located at the T.E. “Jake” Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center, Portageville, MO, 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.

Requirements

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will lead the soybean 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 soybean producers in southern Missouri and the U.S. Mid-South. The successful candidate will be expected to develop a nationally and internationally recognized program in soybean breeding and genetics with a focus on agronomic traits relevant for U.S. Mid-South environments. The incumbent will lead the soybean breeding program, including design of all experiments and trials, planting, plot management, harvesting, data collection and analysis, winter nursery operations, line advancement toward release, and engagement with commercialization efforts. Together with daily oversight of the breeding program, the candidate is expected to stay abreast of new innovations in breeding and genetics and to apply modern tools and approaches for cultivar development and germplasm enhancement. An integrative and collaborative approach to research is expected, which will include collaborations with other breeders and researchers on the main campus in Columbia, statewide and regional extension specialists, as well as scientists at the national and international levels. Industry and stakeholder support for this position is exceptional, and the successful candidate will be expected to develop an extramurally funded research program. 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. A strong commitment to mentoring graduate students and early career scientists is also expected.

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

Candidates will be evaluated on: Hands-on experience as part of a plant breeding program devoted to cultivar development and release. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Effective oral and written communication skills, and the commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment. Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and have interest and ability to work in a collaborative interdisciplinary environment. Training in soybean
breeding and in conducting applied research and evidence of success in obtaining extramural grant support.

Application Procedure:
Apply online at http://hrs.missouri.edu/find-a-job/academic/index.php, Job ID 59246. 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.