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Texas A&M AgriLife Research

Assistant Professor - Forestry

Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Temple, Texas, us, 76508

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Overview

Assistant Professor - Forestry at Texas A&M AgriLife Research. This is a 12-month, non-tenure track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Forest Ecology and Modeling Research. The appointment is 100% research, administratively based at the Blackland Research and Extension Center in Temple, Texas, with academic affiliation in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology at Texas A&M University in College Station, TX, and collaborative ties to the Texas A&M Forest Service. The successful candidate will develop a nationally recognized, externally funded research program that is collaborative, interdisciplinary, and self-sustaining. The program should address challenges related to the sustainability, health, productivity, and marketability of forested landscapes in Texas and beyond. This role involves working with faculty and researchers across the Texas A&M University System and contributing to applied forest science in a region facing ecological and economic shifts. Responsibilities

Establish and lead a nationally recognized, externally funded, and self-sustaining research program focused on the sustainability, health, productivity, and marketability of forested landscapes. Conduct research addressing critical forest resource issues, including: forest ecosystem health and sustainability; forest management systems to produce forage for domestic livestock and wildlife; innovative strategies to protect forested landscapes from invasive species, wildfire, pests, extreme weather, and other destructive agents; watershed management and water quality in forested areas; forest management for recreational purposes; utilization of non-traditional forest products. Design and implement research to assess environmental sustainability, including atmospheric emissions and soil health metrics. Leverage data, models, and algorithms from government, academic, and industry partners; collaborate with other Blackland/Grassland teams and networks; develop and improve simulation models; secure extramural funding; train graduate students; disseminate findings. Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and technical reports; share models and tools with stakeholders, land managers, and the scientific community. Engage with forest industry professionals, community service providers, and entrepreneurs; participate in outreach activities to ensure research relevance and applicability to stakeholders. Collaborate with the Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Forestry Association, county Extension agents, statewide faculty, and other forestry professionals to support applied research and outreach addressing regional needs. Contribute to programming efforts that yield tangible impacts on the economic and ecological viability of forested landscapes across the region. Direct the work of support staff, other technical personnel, and graduate students assigned to the project. Perform other duties as assigned. Administrative Relationships

Reports directly to the Center Director, Texas A&M AgriLife Research-Blackland, with guidance from the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology at Texas A&M University and the Texas A&M Forest Service. Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in forest science or a closely related field by hire date (or demonstrate a strong academic/research program explicitly focused on forestry applications for closely aligned fields). Strong knowledge of forest ecology and related fields; research experience in forest modeling, including biometrics and geospatial analysis. Evidence of, or ability to produce, peer-reviewed publications of original research. Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one. Excellence in verbal and written communication; strong teamwork, collaboration, and project management skills; highly organized; professional demeanor. Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others; ability to establish effective working relationships. Knowledge of the mission and role of the Land Grant University System. Preferred Qualifications

Prior academic, post-doctoral, or professional experience. Experience working with federal agencies or in multi-agency collaborative settings. Modest teaching experience that will enhance graduate student success. Modest outreach experience with stakeholder interaction. Grant writing experience and ability to attract external funding. Location and Facilities

This position is affiliated with the TAMU Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology and contributes to departmental programs. It is stationed at the Blackland Research and Extension Center in Temple and involves collaboration with USDA-ARS, USDA-NRCS, and other partners. The Blackland Center supports modeling of crop and grazing land production and their effects on soil and water resources; the candidate will lead the expansion of forest system modeling for Texas, the United States, and international environments. The ECCB department at TAMU is a nationally ranked program engaging in interdisciplinary ecological research and education to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem services. The department houses multiple programs and collections and participates in campus-wide interdisciplinary initiatives. What You Need To Know

Salary: compensation is commensurate with qualifications. Benefits information is provided by Texas A&M AgriLife. Application Instructions

Applicants should upload: cover letter (2-page limit), curriculum vitae with three references, and a vision statement of research and service (2-page limit). The application screening process will begin on October 1, 2025, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. For questions, contact the Search Committee Chair: Dr. Gurjinder Baath, Temple, gurjinder.baath@ag.tamu.edu, 254-774-6017. Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. All positions are security-sensitive and require a criminal history investigation and verification of credentials as required by the institution. Additional information about Texas A&M AgriLife Research and related departments is available at the following links: Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Blackland Research and Extension Center, Texas A&M University ECCB, Texas A&M Forest Service.

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