Soybean Breeder & Geneticist, Department of Plant Sciences Position Available In Knox, Tennessee

Soybean Breeder & Geneticist, Department of Plant Sciences
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
in Knoxville, TN

Apply Now Type:

Full-Time

Posted:

06/24/2025

Category:

Plant and Soil Science Description:

Screening of applicants’ credentials will begin July 25, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. Desired start date is February 1, 2026. The University of Tennessee is seeking applications and nominations for the position of Assistant Professor of Soybean Breeding & Genetics in the Department of Plant Sciences. This is a 9-month, tenure track position, 75% Research and 25% Teaching.

POSITION DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible for the comprehensive leadership of the UTIA Soybean Breeding & Genetics Program.
Incorporate genomic selection to accelerate cultivar and germplasm improvement.
Incorporate genetic diversity, pest resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and desirable seed quality attributes into high-yielding backgrounds.
Exert visionary leadership and serve as a catalyst for the implementation of innovative research projects.
Write research grant proposals to provide external funding to support the program.
Advise graduate students in M.S. and Ph.D. programs.
Teach graduate and/or undergraduate courses.
Recruit qualified staff and promote their professional development.
Manage budgets, assets, equipment, and personnel to meet the needs of the research program.
Nurture productive relationships across the Institute of Agriculture and University of Tennessee, other universities, USDA and constituents external to the University

BENEFITS

Benefits available include group medical insurance, dental insurance, group and individual life insurance, long-term disability insurance, workers’ compensation, non-contributory retirement (UT makes all contributions), voluntary retirement programs, sick leave, annual leave, paid holidays and administrative leave days, unemployment compensation, educational waivers, and use of University Services.

Qualifications:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

A Ph.D degree in the field of Plant Breeding or Genetics, or a closely related area.
Postdoctoral research experience at a university (preferably land-grant institution), USDA-ARS or related agricultural industry experience.
Plant breeding experience, including the management of multiple field plot trials is essential.
Strong leadership and communication skills, and other personal attributes necessary to manage and direct a research and teaching program.
Demonstrated ability to publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Ability to lead, work well with others, and work with a diverse range of constituents.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience in multiple aspects of molecular breeding and functional genomics, particularly as they relate to crop improvement and the integration of modern genomic tools in breeding programs.
Experience with grant writing and potential in securing research funding.
Teaching experience of plant breeding courses.
Demonstrated ability to administer budgets and manage personnel.

Application Instructions:

TO APPLY

Application materials must include:
Curriculum Vitae
Letter of interest detailing research and teaching philosophy
Names, addresses, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of four professional references that the Search Committee may contact
Official transcripts or diploma showing degree(s) conferred
For more information and to apply, contact: Dr. Tarek Hewezi
Professor
University of Tennessee
Department of Plant Sciences
2431 Joe Johnson Drive
301 Ag & Natural Resources Bldg.
Knoxville, TN 37996
phone 865-974-7559
email: thewezi@utk.edu
The University of Tennessee does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or veteran status in provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities and benefits. This policy extends to both employment by and admission to the University. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or disability in its education programs and activities pursuant to the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)of 1990. Inquiries and charges of violation concerning Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, ADA or the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) or any of the other above referenced policies should be directed to the Office of Equity and Diversity (OED), 1840 Melrose Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996-3560, telephone (865) 974-2498 (V/TTY available) or 974-2440. Requests for accommodation of a disability should be directed to the ADA Coordinator at the UTK Office of Human Resources, 600 Henley Street, Knoxville, TN37996-4125.
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