Assistant/Associate Research Scientist for Advancing Circular Bioeconomy Systems

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Georgia seeks an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist for the Circular Bioeconomy Systems initiative. This non-tenure track position involves 95% research responsibilities, requiring a Ph.D. in biochemical or related fields and strong expertise in modeling biophysical systems. The role requires developing integrated models and coordinating research efforts. Candidates should possess excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate across diverse teams, with a preference for postdoctoral experience.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required with strong background in biophysical modeling.
• Postdoctoral training and strong publication record preferred.
• Experience in biosystems industries and grant proposal preparation favored.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine biophysical models with multidisciplinary teams.
• Coordinate and lead the creation of integrated systems models.
• Identify challenges in advancing sustainable circular bioeconomy systems.
• Develop methods for user adoption of innovations.

Skills

Biophysical modeling

Life-cycle analysis

Big data

Digital twins

Advanced modeling techniques

AI techniques

Education

Ph.D. in biochemical/chemical/agricultural systems engineering

Job description

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 ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, and our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards.

Position Details

Classification Title: Researcher AC
FLSA Faculty Rank: Open Rank
Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.)
Tenure Status: Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

A Ph.D. in biochemical/chemical/agricultural/systems engineering, agricultural science, qualitative biology, or equivalent.

Position Summary

The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at the University of Georgia seeks to recruit an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist for the Circular Bioeconomy Systems (CBS) initiative. This non-tenured track position involves 95% research and 5% service responsibilities. The incumbent, housed in UGA CAES, will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Engineering, Forestry and Natural Resources, Arts and Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences, and other Colleges/Schools. The candidate is expected to maintain a nationally recognized research program, produce and publish impactful work, and contribute to teaching and outreach missions. Responsibilities include coordinating and drafting external funding proposals for the CBS initiative, interacting with undergraduate/graduate students and stakeholders, and supporting the university’s mission.

Additional Requirements

A Ph.D. with a strong background and proven success in modeling biophysical systems is required. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in biophysical modeling, life‑cycle‑analysis, big‑data, digital twins, and advanced modeling and AI techniques. Postdoctoral training and a strong publication record are preferred. Internship or hands‑on skills in biosystems industries and proficiency in preparing interdisciplinary grant proposals are favored.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The incumbent should understand systems producing biomass on land, in water, and in controlled environments, as well as technical processes that utilize biomass as feedstock for materials and chemicals. Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills are essential for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Develop and refine biophysical models in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Coordinate and lead the construction of holistic, integrated biosystems, ecosystems, and socio‑economic system models.
• Identify grand challenges in advancing sustainable circular bioeconomy systems.
• Determine critical knowledge, techniques, and skills needed to address these challenges.
• Prioritize actions to meet short‑ and long‑term CBS goals.
• Develop methods to prototype and extend innovations for user adoption.

Physical Demands

Position is a position of trust: No.
Has operation, access, or control of financial resources: No.
Requires driving: Yes.
Does not involve direct interaction with children under 18 or direct patient care: No.
Does not involve security access requiring IT or personnel records: No.
Credit/Background check required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For details, see UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background investigation policy requires a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and satisfactory credit check if applicable. Pre‑employment drug test may be required for high‑risk positions.

Applicant Documents

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. List of References with Contact Information
4. Research Portfolio/Philosophy
5. Sample Publications