Assistant/Associate Professor of Forest Genetics, Genomics, & Tree Breeding

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Forest Genetics, Genomics and/or Tree Breeding at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. This role involves research, instruction, and university service responsibilities.

Research areas include forest genetics, genomics, and tree breeding, with responsibilities including developing funded research programs and teaching courses. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in a related field and demonstrate teaching and research excellence.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, Crop and Soil Science, or closely related field.
• Record consistent with promotion to Associate Professor at the Warnell School.
• Ability to produce and communicate research products.

Responsibilities

• Develop an externally funded program recognized nationally and internationally.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Forest Genetics/Tree Improvement.
• Serve on School/University committees and participate in professional societies.

Skills

Research communication

Strong publication record

Engagement with stakeholders

Education

Ph.D. in Forestry or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA invites applications for a tenure‑track faculty position in Forest Genetics, Genomics and/or Tree Breeding at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. The appointment is a 9‑month faculty role with research, instruction, and university and professional service responsibilities.

Potential areas of research may include:

• Forest genetics
• Genomics
• Tree breeding
• Genomic selection
• Gene editing technologies

Research responsibilities include developing an externally funded program that is recognized nationally and internationally. Teaching duties could include developing new undergraduate and graduate courses in Forest Genetics/Tree Improvement and Forest Biotechnology. Professional service includes serving on School/University committees and actively participating in professional/scientific societies.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. degree prior to the starting date in Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, Crop and Soil Science, or a closely related field.

Additional Requirements

Appointment to Associate Professor requires a record consistent with promotion to Associate Professor at the Warnell School, such as strong evidence of emerging stature as a national authority, acquiring and administering external funding, ability to produce and communicate research products, and excellence in teaching and mentoring students.

Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure and/or Certification

Service at the Associate Professor level for 1–2 years is preferred for this rank. Prior graduate or postdoctoral research training or industrial service in some area of plant genetics, genomics, biotechnology and/or breeding is also preferred.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

The ability to effectively communicate research findings to the forestry and plant biotechnology research communities, as evidenced by a strong publication record and engagement with stakeholders.

Application Instructions

To ensure full consideration, please apply by March 1, 2026. Candidates must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, one-page statements of both teaching and research interests, unofficial transcripts of all college-level work, and names and contact information for three references. Individuals invited for interviews will be required to have three reference letters submitted, on their behalf, directly to the chair of the search committee. University policy requires all candidates to consent to and authorize a background investigation. A background investigation and request of official transcripts will be conducted on a post-offer/pre-employment basis only. Expected start date on or before August 1, 2026. For additional information, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Dan Johnson at [e-mail].

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR at [e-mail].