The Department of Agronomy and Horticulture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for a Small Grains Research Assistant Professor. This 12-month (calendar year), non-tenure track appointment will play a pivotal role within the Small Grains Breeding Program in coordinating research efforts, managing laboratory activities, mentoring students, collaborating with internal and external partners, securing extramural funding, and disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed journals and scientific meetings. The apportionment is 100% research. This position will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Contribute to the overall objectives of the Small Grains Breeding Program by conducting research in the field of small grains genetics and breeding with a focus on optimizing and deploying statistical tools and DNA marker information.
• Lead and collaborate on research projects related to response to biotic and abiotic stresses, heterosis, yield gain, hybrid purity, or genetic control of male and female traits in hybrid wheat and/or triticale.
• Develop and implement strategies to advance research goals related to small grains genetic improvement, including the use of quantitative genetics theory, data analysis, and predictive breeding tools.
• Support research activities with internal and external partners, including stakeholders, agencies, and industry collaborators.
• Oversee activities in the genotyping lab, including the development and implementation of an efficient genotyping workflow for the small grains breeding program.
• The incumbent is expected to generate high-quality data and participate in field and laboratory data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Write and submit grant proposals to secure extramural funding to support research initiatives and program development.
• Mentor graduate students, laboratory staff, and potentially undergraduate students, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Manage laboratory staff, providing guidance, training, and support for efficient research operations.
• Publish research findings in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences and meetings.
• Collaborate effectively with other faculty members, extension teams, and educational programs to enhance the impact of research efforts.
• Translate research-based information into educational products and tools for diverse audiences.
• Fulfill committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and ad hoc tasks as required by the administrative unit, college/division, institute, or university.

Required Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related discipline). 
• Demonstrated expertise in plant breeding, genetics, statistical analysis, and molecular marker applications. 
• Proven ability to optimize and deploy statistical tools and DNA marker information for breeding purposes, with a particular emphasis on advancing research on heterosis, yield gain, hybrid purity, or genetic control of male and female traits in hybrid wheat.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with wheat breeding and genetics or with other polyploid species. 
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. 
• Leadership skills with the ability to manage laboratory staff and mentor students effectively. 
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in research and educational activities.

Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and Agronomy and Horticulture are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission. 

Application Process

Review of applications will begin January 22, 2024 and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. To view details of the position and create an application, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_230188. Click “Apply for this job” and then “Faculty Application.” Complete the information form and attach the following documents:

1. A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions, and your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum). See https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement.
2. Your curriculum vitae.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.