Assistant Professor - Turfgrass Breeding (Griffin Campus)

Position Information

Classification Title Assistant Professor FLSA Faculty Rank Assistant Professor Contract Type Academic (9 mo.) Tenure Status Tenure Track Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in agronomy, crop science, plant breeding, plant genetics, genomics, or closely related disciplines.

Position Summary

The position is a 9-month, tenure-track position in Turfgrass Breeding with 75% research, 20% instruction, and 5% service responsibilities located on the UGA Griffin Campus. UGA is seeking a turfgrass breeder that will release cultivars that have an impact on Georgia and the nation's economy while improving the ability of turfgrass managers (e.g., golf course superintendents, sports field managers, commercial lawn care professionals, and sod producers) to maintain safe and sustainable turfgrass systems.

This person will be expected to utilize and develop state-of-the-art plant breeding techniques that include traditional, field-based breeding, high throughput phenotyping, and genomics to develop improved turfgrass cultivars and germplasm; focusing on turfgrasses that express improved end-use quality; reduction of management inputs and environmental impacts; pest resistance; and opportunities for commercialization. This position also offers the flexibility to solve other basic and applied agricultural problems based on industry needs and program direction.

The incumbent is expected to work collaboratively in a team environment; conduct basic and applied research; secure extramural funding; release improved cultivars and germplasm; present and publish research findings and education materials; and train graduate students, extension personnel, and industry practitioners. Participation in committee service (i.e., departmental, college, university, etc.), providing academic leadership at the statewide level, and engaging in professional societies related to crop sciences, turfgrass breeding, genetics, and management are also expected. It is presumed the successful candidate will become a member, supporting the objectives and degree programs of the Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics.

Available Resources: existing germplasm for seashore paspalum, zoysiagrass, bentgrass, and tall fescue; irrigated field plots with all warm- and cool-season turfgrass species relevant to Georgia; technical field support; turfgrass maintenance equipment; wet and dry lab space; greenhouse facilities; and growth chambers.

Additional Requirements Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification

• Training in grass breeding (especially turfgrasses) and the ability to work with molecular geneticists are desirable.

• Record of accomplishments in outreach and teaching will be viewed favorably.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Physical Demands

Lift up to 25lbs, working in field and greenhouse environments which may be a hot and cold environment depending on time of year.

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

Yes Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Is driving a responsibility of this position?

Yes Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities

The successful candidate must be committed to excellence in research and technology transfer. This position provides an opportunity for an individual to develop a vigorous, innovative, and independent research program with state, regional, national, and international impact.

Responsibilities include program leadership, collaboration, and support mission-oriented research and educational activities related to turfgrass science. At the state, regional, and national levels, the candidate will be responsible for establishing and maintaining collaborative relations with various clientele within the turfgrass industry (e.g. sod and seed production, golf, sports fields, commercial lawn care, etc.). Candidate is expected to actively train and mentor graduate students.

Percentage Of Time 100

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Cover Letter

• Resume/CV

• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents

• Unofficial Transcripts

• Other Documents #1

Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact University HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.