Assistant or Associate Professor (Open Rank) - Plant Synthetic Biology and Technology Development

Biophysical Society; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia invites applications for an open rank faculty position in plant synthetic biology, aimed at developing innovative computational tools and methodologies. This role offers a unique opportunity for a visionary scientist to contribute to agricultural advancements and mentor students in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in mathematical modeling of biological systems.
• Demonstrated track record in plant synthetic biology or tool development.
• Expertise in designing screening platforms or synthetic systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead a cutting-edge research program in plant synthetic biology.
• Conduct innovative research integrating systems biology, AI/ML, and agriculture.
• Secure external funding for research initiatives.

Skills

Mathematical modeling

Genetics

High-throughput screening

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

Job description

External Retirement Plan TRS or ORP Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Underutilization Advertised Salary Commensurate with Experience Anticipated Start Date 08/01/2025 Effective End Date (for Limited-Term postings) Job Posting Date 05/14/2025 Job Closing Date Open until filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 06/30/25. However, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Materials to be uploaded include (1) Letter of application; (2) Curriculum vitae; (3) Unofficial transcripts; (4) Statement of research vision, and (5) Names and Contact Information of three professional references. Inquiries about this position should be directed to Dr. Scott Jackson, Chair of the Search Committee, at [e-mail].
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.

Position Details

Position Information

Classification Title Open Rank FLSA Faculty Rank Open Rank (Tenure Track) Contract Type Academic (9 mo.) Tenure Status Tenure Track or Tenured Minimum Qualifications
A Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
Position Summary
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences ( UGA CAES ) seeks a visionary scientist to lead innovative research in designing and developing computational tools, methodologies, and technologies to design and accelerate the development, testing and deployment of engineered plant lines. This position represents a unique opportunity to contribute to the rapidly growing field of plant synthetic biology and address global challenges in agriculture and the bioeconomy. This position is expected to collaborate with colleagues within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the College of Engineering. and the developing Institute of Synthetic Biology currently led by Dr. Scott Jackson.

The successful candidate will focus on developing enabling plant synthetic biology technologies-such as designing synthetic regulatory circuits, rewired cell-type-specific physiologies, and high-throughput screening/precision phenotyping systems. Research areas may include, but are not limited to, enhancing plant photosynthesis, tolerance to abiotic stresses, and conversion of metabolites into economically or nutritionally valuable bioproducts. By integrating bioengineering approaches across the gene, protein, cell, and organismal levels, the candidate will accelerate the design-build-test-learn cycle for engineering plants at scale.
Additional Requirements Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Proficiency in mathematical modelling of biological and/or agricultural systems with a focus on genetics, and/or a demonstrated track record of research excellence in plant synthetic biology or tool development, supported by peer-reviewed publications or other significant contributions.
• Non-plant synthetic biologists seeking to apply relevant expertise to plant/agricultural systems and problems are also encouraged to apply.
• Expertise in designing high-throughput screening platforms, synthetic regulatory systems/ engineered metabolic pathways, or phenotyping technologies.
• Strong commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, teaching, and mentoring.

Physical Demands 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? No 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.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities

• Lead a cutting-edge research program in plant synthetic biology, focusing on development of genetic tools and technologies for high-throughput discovery and engineering.
• Conduct innovative research at the intersection of systems biology, AI/ML, computational modeling, and agriculture.
• Develop novel methods for the design, screening, and optimization of plant traits and systems.
• Collaborate across disciplines, including computational biology, molecular engineering, and plant physiology, to create integrative solutions.
• Secure external funding to support research initiatives.
• Teach and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in related fields.
• Engage with industry and stakeholders to promote the application of enabling genetic tools and biosystems design models in agriculture.
• Mentorship and education of graduate students
• Consistent with UGA's commitment to offer the highest quality instruction, at the current allocation of effort, this role will be expected to teach 4.5 credit hours/year.

Percentage Of Time 100

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

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

Optional Documents

1. Teaching Portfolio/Philosophy