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About This Role:
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The Agronomy Department at Kansas State University is seeking an Assistant Professor, 12-month, tenure-track faculty position with 80% research and 20% teaching appointment, to develop a strong, innovative research and teaching program in theoretical Quantitative Genetics with focus on developing novel statistical and quantitative modeling approaches to genomic and phenomic data collected in crop genetics and breeding programs. This position will apply these models for understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying variation in major agronomic traits, including but not limited to crop adaptation and productivity, and apply these models for predictive breeding to accelerate development of improved crop varieties. This position will be expected to collaborate with crop breeding, genomics, and phenomics teams to apply machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to leverage large-scale datasets for mechanistic understanding and trait prediction under changing environments. This position is expected to develop collaborative ties to programs across departmental and college boundaries. The incumbent will develop new courses for graduate students in application of advanced modeling approaches, including machine learning and AI, to crop improvement. The incumbent will develop graduate level courses to support the teaching mission of the Department of Agronomy, Interdepartmental Genetics Program, and College of Agriculture in the area of quantitative genetics. The developed courses will provide training opportunities for graduate students in one or more of the following areas: 1) crop quantitative genetics, 2) application of AI-based methods to crop genetics and breeding, 3) modeling crop genotypes, development, and physiology in relationship to the target selection environment. The incumbent will be expected to leverage K-State’s breeding and genetic programs for the climate resilient cereals of sorghum, canola, wheat, and soybeans. The incumbent must be able to work in a multicultural setting and create an environment that fosters collegiality, diversity, and teamwork.
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Why Join Us:
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Kansas State Research and Extension (KSRE), as an essential component of Kansas State University, has a number of active crop genetics and breeding programs that generate a wealth of data using novel high-throughput sequencing and phenomic data collection technologies. K-State houses world class research programs covering diverse aspects of basic and applied crop genetics and plant health. K-State has invested in the development of state-of-the-art infrastructure for high-performance computing. These resources provide unique opportunities for developing an interdisciplinary research program focused on: 1) quantitative and statistical modeling approaches leveraging phenomic and genomic data to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying crop adaptation to local environments and affecting productivity; 2) development of novel models for investigating the systems-level effects of OMICs variation on plant-level phenotypes and aimed at identifying candidate variants, genes and pathways predictive of environmental adaption and variation in productivity traits; 3) creating novel statistical methodologies and decision support tools for improving the efficiency of prediction in breeding programs. Applicant will have the opportunity to affiliate with the newly established Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics (ID3A) and participate in new university initiatives across campus. Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits
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We Support Diversity and Inclusion:
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Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion. The University actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others. The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.
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Worksite Options:
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This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.
Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work.
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What You’ll Need to Succeed:
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Minimum Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in plant breeding or genetics with a focus on statistical genetics, crop modeling, computational biology, genomics, or related field.
- Strong potential for securing extramural funding.
- Demonstrated ability, commensurate with current career level, to publish research results in peer-reviewed journals and strong potential for extramural funding.
- Commitment to graduate student mentoring and teaching.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Strong commitment to expanding and fostering diversity in the Department.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity or track record of collaborating with field-based plant breeding and genetic research programs.
- Experience in leading or working as part of an interdisciplinary extension and research team.
- Record of applied research commensurate with current career level and a strong record or potential for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Demonstrated experience in grant writing and obtaining extramural funding commensurate with current career level.
- Experience in teaching at the university level with demonstrated ability to inspire and provide leadership development and demonstrated scholarship of teaching and learning.
- Experience in theoretical quantitative genetics and application to plant improvement.
Other Requirements:
- Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment
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How to Apply:
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Please submit the following documents:
- Letter of application, articulating interest in the position and experience or training relative to the qualifications for the position
- Statement of research and teaching vision and philosophy (two page limit)
- Full curriculum vitae
- Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
- Names, e-mails, and phone numbers for three references
- Inquiries about the position should be directed to the search committee chair, Allan Fritz, Ph.D., at akf@ksu.edu with subject line: Faculty Search.
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Screening of Applications Begins:
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Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration please apply by April 1, 2024.
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Anticipated Hiring Pay Range:
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Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
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Equal Employment Opportunity:
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Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
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Background Screening Statement:
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In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.
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