Assistant/Associate Professor – Forage Breeding/Genetics

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research university is seeking an Assistant/Associate Professor specializing in forage breeding/genetics. The role focuses on developing and implementing breeding programs, conducting research, and collaborating with stakeholders. Candidates must have a doctorate in plant breeding or related fields, with strong communication and funding procurement skills. The position offers a full-time tenure-accruing opportunity at the North Florida Research and Education Center. Applicants are invited to submit materials online by June 15, 2026.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in plant breeding or related field with emphasis on crop improvement.
• Experience in field-based plant breeding research preferred.
• Skills in securing extramural funding and mentoring graduate students.

Responsibilities

• Develop forage breeding program for Florida and Southeast U.S.
• Conduct lab and field activities using novel breeding technologies.
• Seek funding to support breeding program.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Interpersonal relationships

Extramural funding procurement

Education

Doctorate in plant breeding, plant genetics, or related discipline

Job description

Assistant/Associate Professor Forage Breeding/Genetics

Location: Jackson. Job Type: Full Time. Classification: Assistant/Associate Professor.

Expected Salary: Commensurate with experience and education. This is a 12‑month tenure‑accruing position (70% research, 30% extension) based at the North Florida Research and Education Center – Marianna.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a forage breeding program to develop and release forage species and cultivars that address biotic and abiotic stresses, seasonal distribution, biological nitrogen fixation, seed production, and overall fitness for Florida and the Southeast U.S.
• Conduct laboratory and field activities using novel breeding technologies.
• Actively seek external funding to support the breeding program.
• Develop an extension program, including efforts to enhance producer adoption of new and existing forage cultivars within best‑management practices that protect natural resources.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, notably the Florida Cattlemen's Association, and align research and extension activities with industry priorities.
• Collaborate with the cropping systems, agronomy, and integrated crop‑livestock systems program at UF.
• Participate actively in undergraduate and graduate education by chairing and serving on graduate committees, supervising thesis and dissertations, and publishing research results with students.
• Engage in professional development activities related to teaching and advising and may teach courses and seminars on a limited basis.

Qualifications

• Doctorate (or foreign equivalent) in plant breeding, plant genetics, or a closely related discipline with an emphasis on field‑based crop improvement or cultivar development.
• Demonstrated skills in verbal and written communication, interpersonal relationships, and procurement of extramural funding.
• Commitment to supporting the mission of the land‑grant system and UF core values.
• Prior experience in field‑based plant breeding research, securing extramural funding, and mentoring graduate students is preferred.
• Post‑doctoral or industry experience in development or application of novel methods targeting cultivar development is desirable.

Application Information

Please submit application materials online by 15 June 2026.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Eligibility to work in the U.S. is required.