Assistant or Associate Professor and Extension Specialist - Ornamental Plant Pathology

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia seeks an Assistant or Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Ornamental Plant Pathology, responsible for education, research, and Extension programs related to ornamental horticulture diseases. Ideal candidates will possess a Ph.D. and demonstrate a track record in plant disease management and education, contributing significantly to a nationally recognized program.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Benefits eligible position

Engagement in teaching and research activities

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required with knowledge in plant pathology.
• Skills in diagnosis and management of plant diseases.
• Experience in educational outreach and research publication.

Responsibilities

• Develop a nationally recognized Extension program in plant pathology.
• Conduct applied research and train stakeholders on disease management.
• Engage in teaching and supervisory roles for graduate students.

Skills

Knowledge of plant diseases

Research skills

Teaching skills

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or related discipline

Job description

Posting Number:

F2235P

Working Title:

Assistant or Associate Professor and Extension Specialist - Ornamental Plant Pathology

Department:

CAES-Plant Pathology

About the University of Georgia:

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department:

As one of the largest departments of its kind in the U.S., the UGA Department of Plant Pathology is recognized internationally for its comprehensive and integrative research and outreach portfolio, spanning basic, translational and applied programs. Our scientists ensure the economic viability of agriculture, the largest sector of Georgia’s economy, and contribute to national and global food security by reducing crop losses. Equally important, our research increases the understanding of basic biology through new discoveries in pathogen biology, resistance genetics and host-pathogen interactions.

The University System of Georgia (USG) is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. 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. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653

College/Unit/Department website:

https://plantpath.caes.uga.edu/

Posting Type:

External

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Benefits Eligible

Underutilization:

None

Advertised Salary:

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experiences

Anticipated Start Date:

08/01/2025

Job Posting Date:

12/04/2024

Open until filled:

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Review of applications will begin on February 3, 2025; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. James Buck, Chair of the Search Committee ([e-mail]). Materials to be uploaded include i) cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience relative to the responsibilities of the position, ii) curriculum vitae, iii) graduate-level academic transcripts, iv) statement of Extension philosophy and experience (uploaded under Other Documents #1), v) statement of teaching interests and experience, and vi) names and contact information of four professional references. Selected applicants will be required to submit a background investigation demonstrating eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia.

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

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 ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. 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. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Classification Title:

Open Rank

Faculty Rank:

Open Rank

Contract Type:

Academic (9 mo.)

Tenure Status:

Tenure Track or Tenured

Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or related discipline.

Position Summary:

The University of Georgia (UGA) seeks to hire a faculty member with Extension (80%), teaching (15%), and service (5%) assignments in the Department of Plant Pathology, Athens Campus. The position will be filled at the Assistant or Associate Professor level on 9-month academic-year appointment with a guarantee of 2 months of summer salary. The faculty member will be responsible for developing a nationally recognized Extension program focused on the etiology, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the $1.36-billion ornamental horticulture industry in Georgia, including nurseries, greenhouse ornamentals, floriculture, woody ornamentals, and commercial landscapes. Specific responsibilities include: education and training of stakeholder groups and Extension personnel; disease management recommendations for ornamental and commercial landscape samples diagnosed in the UGA Plant Disease Clinics; applied research on the etiology, diagnosis, and management of diseases of ornamental crops; information dissemination via journal articles, first reports, Extension publications, and popular press articles in traditional and digital formats; participation and leadership in extramural grant proposals; and supervision and mentoring of graduate students in research areas commensurate with the mission-oriented scope of this position. Collaborations with faculty and agents in the ornamental green industry team and theIPM Program at UGA are strongly encouraged. Teaching responsibilities will encompass the equivalent of 4 credit-hours per year. The position will be supervised by the Plant Pathology department head.

Additional Requirements:

To be considered for the rank of Associate Professor, candidates must have at least 5 full years in rank at the Assistant Professor level. To be eligible for tenure upon appointment, candidates must be appointed as an Associate Professor, have been tenured at a prior institution, and bring a demonstrably regional and/or national reputation to the institution. Such candidates must be approved for tenure upon appointment before hire. The criteria for promotion and tenure at the University of Georgia and in the Department of Plant Pathology are available at https://provost.uga.edu/faculty-affairs/promotion-tenure-evaluation/academic-rank/

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification:

Knowledge of and skill in the diagnosis and management of plant diseases, as documented by work history and/or scientific publication(s)

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.