Assistant or Associate Professor in Potato Breeding and Genetics
Assistant or Associate Professor in Potato Breeding and Genetics
Position Description
The Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture (HLA) at Colorado State University (CSU) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor faculty position in potato breeding and genetics to direct our renowned Potato Breeding and Selection program. This position is a 65% research, 20% teaching, and 15% service appointment on a 9-month contract.
We seek applications from scientists to continue and develop an innovative, applied potato breeding program at CSU. The successful applicant will be expected to integrate modern and conventional methods to make genetic discoveries and improve potato germplasm. This work should lead to an improved understanding of genetic and environmental factors that affect potato, develop varieties to impact the local and national potato industry, and advance breeding theory in vegetable crops. Although this position is based in Fort Collins, CO, the candidate will work closely with faculty, scientists, and staff at the San Luis Valley Research Center (SLVRC) located in Center, CO. Currently, the program is supported by three Research Associates and involves collaborative efforts with the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station (CSU AES), the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee (CPAC), and the Colorado Certified Potato Growers Association (CCPGA). Stewarding and supporting these existing relationships and those with extension specialists and grower collaborators will be essential to the continued success of this program.
The successful candidate will co-teach an undergraduate level course in plant breeding and develop a graduate level course in the candidate’s area of expertise. Graduate student advising, participation with undergraduate research and mentoring, and contributions toward outreach and service activities are expected. Candidates are sought with demonstrated capacity to integrate next-generation technologies and large datasets with classical field-,greenhouse-, and laboratory-based plant improvement approaches in their research program. Candidates should have a strong record of applied research, strong program management skills, and a desire to incorporate new techniques and technologies to advance the field of potato breeding. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to collaboration and actively support an inclusive and diverse workplace.
Required Job Qualifications
- Ph. D. in plant breeding, genetics, or a related field (complete by the application deadline).
- A strong record of scholarly achievement commensurate with experience.
- Effective communication skills, with an emphasis on presenting and disseminating research information to a range of audiences.
- Experience in plant germplasm enhancement or genetic resources evaluation.
- Experience with genomics and applications to crop breeding, such as with high-throughput DNA markers and large datasets.
Preferred Job Qualifications
- Experience in potato or related vegetable crops.
- Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.
- Demonstrated potential for obtaining competitive research grant funding.
- Evidence of capacity for program management, collaborative research, and interactions with stakeholders.
- Desire and ability to advance the department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion through research, teaching and outreach with relevant programs, stakeholders, and activities.
Application Process
To apply, please upload a cover letter which addresses the minimum and preferred qualifications, a Curriculum Vitae, a statement which describes your vision for your research program, teaching, and commitment to diversity and inclusion (five pages maximum), and the names and contact information for four references. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates. Apply at https://jobs.colostate.edu/postings/87143.
Contact information for any inquiry
Adam Heuberger, e-mail: adam.heuberger@colostate.edu