University of Minnesota
Assistant/Associate Professor, Perennial Cereals Breeding & Genomics
University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, 55199
Job ID: 370918 | Location: Twin Cities | Job Family: Academic | Full/Part Time: Full-Time | Regular/Temporary: Regular | Job Code: 9403 | Employee Class: Instr Fac/TC and Coord Cmp
About the Job Assistant/Associate Professor, Perennial Cereals Breeding & Genomics Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences St. Paul, MN
Position Overview This position is a full-time, nine-month (academic year) tenure-track appointment with 60% research and 40% teaching responsibilities. Research activities include directing breeding and genomic improvement programs on perennial cereal grain crops. The primary crops will be intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza), perennial cereal rye, and perennial wheat. The Kernza breeding program is well established, the perennial rye and wheat programs are in development, and other perennial cereals such as perennial oat may be included at the incumbent’s discretion. Teaching responsibilities will include two undergraduate and/or graduate courses per year in addition to mentoring and advising of undergraduate and graduate students.
Research: The position will focus on genetic/genomic investigations, germplasm improvement, and cultivar development of perennial cereals utilizing contemporary tools such as DNA sequencing, predictive breeding, and/or high-throughput phenotyping, as appropriate for the species. Interdisciplinary research will be encouraged through collaborations with other scientists and engagement with initiatives and centers such as the Forever Green Initiative and Plant Breeding Center. The Forever Green Initiative is an interdisciplinary research and development platform that is working to diversify Upper Midwest crop rotations with perennial and winter-annual crops that protect soil over the winter, improve water quality, build resilience, and provide new economic opportunities for farmers and rural communities. Internal research funds are expected to be available periodically from the Forever Green Initiative, but the incumbent will be expected to secure and maintain extramural funding to support research and breeding efforts.
Teaching: The successful candidate will be a passionate and effective educator who teaches two courses per year in agronomy, genetics/genomics, or plant breeding. These courses will support both undergraduate and graduate degree programs associated with the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to excellence in teaching and committed to continuous pedagogical improvement. This includes being open to innovative teaching strategies, adapting to diverse learning styles, and providing mentorship and academic advising to both undergraduate and graduate students.
The University of Minnesota is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the inclusive excellence of the academic community through their teaching, service, research, and scholarship.
Responsibilities
Develop a nationally and internationally recognized research program in perennial cereals breeding and genomics
Release cultivars of perennial cereals for use by farmers in the Upper Midwest and beyond
Contribute to the College’s strengths in plant improvement
Teach two undergraduate and/or graduate courses per year
Maintain an externally funded research program
Advise graduate and undergraduate students
Engage in service activities that support the department, college, university, and profession
Time Appointment: 100% time, 9-month appointment Position Type: Faculty (tenure-track), Assistant/Associate Professor (9403/9402)
Qualifications Required Qualifications
Ph.D. degree or equivalent in plant breeding, genetics, genomics or closely related field
Demonstrated teaching experience at the college level
Proven ability to conduct innovative, original research in a relevant field
Publication record in peer‑reviewed journals
Effective leadership and communication skills, and other personal attributes necessary to manage and direct a research and teaching program
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with other researchers
Preferred Qualifications
Postdoctoral or equivalent work experience
Demonstration of strong commitment to teaching
Plant breeding experience in any species
Grant writing experience
Demonstrated ability to administer budgets and manage personnel
About the Department Department Overview The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics, biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper Midwest and beyond. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant Sciences, Plant and Microbial Biology, and other graduate programs. The faculty teach in the Plant Science and Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture interdepartmental undergraduate programs and the Applied Plant Sciences graduate program.
College Overview The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 13 academic departments, 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe. CFANS offers thirteen undergraduate majors and thirteen graduate majors, three pre‑major/pre‑professional programs and 23 minors for undergraduate students. Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2,000 students. CFANS students are well‑prepared for an inclusive multicultural workforce through the college’s emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning, internships and global perspectives.
The University of Minnesota‑Twin Cities is in a diverse metropolitan area that is the home to the state capital as well as a large agribusiness and food sector. The campus is at the center of a diverse agricultural production region and supported by ten research and outreach centers located throughout the state. This proximity offers unique opportunities for stakeholder engagement to identify and address contemporary economic, business, and policy issues related to agriculture, food, environment, and natural resources.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range:
Assistant Professor: $96,000 – $100,000 annually or Associate Professor: $110,000 – $115,000 annually, depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment:
100% appointment Position Type:
Faculty and P&A Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
This position will remain open until filled.
This is posted as either at either the assistant or associate tenure‑track level with the compensation range of: Assistant Professor: $96,000 – $100,000 or Associate Professor: $110,000 – $115,000
Applications must be submitted online http://employment.umn.edu/ (search for Job Opening ID 370918)
Submit applications by January 5, 2026.
Please submit the following as ONE PDF document:
Cover letter that highlights the candidate’s qualifications for the position
Research statement (maximum 2 pages) highlighting accomplishments, experience, and future research directions
Teaching statement (maximum 2 pages) highlighting accomplishments, experience, philosophies, and interests
Curriculum Vitae
Names and contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will be requested at the interview stage.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Search Committee Chair, Professor James Anderson (ander319@umn.edu). For Human Resources or administrative related questions, please contact, Departmental Administrator, Lori Loberg (lloberg@umn.edu)
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
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About the Job Assistant/Associate Professor, Perennial Cereals Breeding & Genomics Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences St. Paul, MN
Position Overview This position is a full-time, nine-month (academic year) tenure-track appointment with 60% research and 40% teaching responsibilities. Research activities include directing breeding and genomic improvement programs on perennial cereal grain crops. The primary crops will be intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza), perennial cereal rye, and perennial wheat. The Kernza breeding program is well established, the perennial rye and wheat programs are in development, and other perennial cereals such as perennial oat may be included at the incumbent’s discretion. Teaching responsibilities will include two undergraduate and/or graduate courses per year in addition to mentoring and advising of undergraduate and graduate students.
Research: The position will focus on genetic/genomic investigations, germplasm improvement, and cultivar development of perennial cereals utilizing contemporary tools such as DNA sequencing, predictive breeding, and/or high-throughput phenotyping, as appropriate for the species. Interdisciplinary research will be encouraged through collaborations with other scientists and engagement with initiatives and centers such as the Forever Green Initiative and Plant Breeding Center. The Forever Green Initiative is an interdisciplinary research and development platform that is working to diversify Upper Midwest crop rotations with perennial and winter-annual crops that protect soil over the winter, improve water quality, build resilience, and provide new economic opportunities for farmers and rural communities. Internal research funds are expected to be available periodically from the Forever Green Initiative, but the incumbent will be expected to secure and maintain extramural funding to support research and breeding efforts.
Teaching: The successful candidate will be a passionate and effective educator who teaches two courses per year in agronomy, genetics/genomics, or plant breeding. These courses will support both undergraduate and graduate degree programs associated with the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to excellence in teaching and committed to continuous pedagogical improvement. This includes being open to innovative teaching strategies, adapting to diverse learning styles, and providing mentorship and academic advising to both undergraduate and graduate students.
The University of Minnesota is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the inclusive excellence of the academic community through their teaching, service, research, and scholarship.
Responsibilities
Develop a nationally and internationally recognized research program in perennial cereals breeding and genomics
Release cultivars of perennial cereals for use by farmers in the Upper Midwest and beyond
Contribute to the College’s strengths in plant improvement
Teach two undergraduate and/or graduate courses per year
Maintain an externally funded research program
Advise graduate and undergraduate students
Engage in service activities that support the department, college, university, and profession
Time Appointment: 100% time, 9-month appointment Position Type: Faculty (tenure-track), Assistant/Associate Professor (9403/9402)
Qualifications Required Qualifications
Ph.D. degree or equivalent in plant breeding, genetics, genomics or closely related field
Demonstrated teaching experience at the college level
Proven ability to conduct innovative, original research in a relevant field
Publication record in peer‑reviewed journals
Effective leadership and communication skills, and other personal attributes necessary to manage and direct a research and teaching program
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with other researchers
Preferred Qualifications
Postdoctoral or equivalent work experience
Demonstration of strong commitment to teaching
Plant breeding experience in any species
Grant writing experience
Demonstrated ability to administer budgets and manage personnel
About the Department Department Overview The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics, biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper Midwest and beyond. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant Sciences, Plant and Microbial Biology, and other graduate programs. The faculty teach in the Plant Science and Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture interdepartmental undergraduate programs and the Applied Plant Sciences graduate program.
College Overview The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 13 academic departments, 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe. CFANS offers thirteen undergraduate majors and thirteen graduate majors, three pre‑major/pre‑professional programs and 23 minors for undergraduate students. Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2,000 students. CFANS students are well‑prepared for an inclusive multicultural workforce through the college’s emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning, internships and global perspectives.
The University of Minnesota‑Twin Cities is in a diverse metropolitan area that is the home to the state capital as well as a large agribusiness and food sector. The campus is at the center of a diverse agricultural production region and supported by ten research and outreach centers located throughout the state. This proximity offers unique opportunities for stakeholder engagement to identify and address contemporary economic, business, and policy issues related to agriculture, food, environment, and natural resources.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range:
Assistant Professor: $96,000 – $100,000 annually or Associate Professor: $110,000 – $115,000 annually, depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment:
100% appointment Position Type:
Faculty and P&A Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
This position will remain open until filled.
This is posted as either at either the assistant or associate tenure‑track level with the compensation range of: Assistant Professor: $96,000 – $100,000 or Associate Professor: $110,000 – $115,000
Applications must be submitted online http://employment.umn.edu/ (search for Job Opening ID 370918)
Submit applications by January 5, 2026.
Please submit the following as ONE PDF document:
Cover letter that highlights the candidate’s qualifications for the position
Research statement (maximum 2 pages) highlighting accomplishments, experience, and future research directions
Teaching statement (maximum 2 pages) highlighting accomplishments, experience, philosophies, and interests
Curriculum Vitae
Names and contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will be requested at the interview stage.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Search Committee Chair, Professor James Anderson (ander319@umn.edu). For Human Resources or administrative related questions, please contact, Departmental Administrator, Lori Loberg (lloberg@umn.edu)
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
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