Professor Open Rank - Small Grain Breeding

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Crop Sciences is seeking an outstanding scientist for an Open-Rank (Assistant/Associate/Full Professor) Plant Breeding (Small Grains) position. This role is focused on advancing food security through the genetic improvement of small grain crops, particularly wheat and potentially other small grains like oats. The position will lead a program with national and international relevance, focusing on cultivar and germplasm development. Breeding targets include improved yield, adaptation, disease resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, end-use quality, nutrition, and sustainability. The successful candidate will conduct original research, utilize innovative and interdisciplinary approaches, and contribute to student education and training by teaching courses in plant breeding or related topics. The department offers excellent laboratory, greenhouse, and field research facilities, building upon existing novel germplasm for soft red winter wheats and oats. The position is eligible for the Siemer Professorship of Wheat Breeding, an endowed faculty position, and offers integration into a collaborative life and data sciences research ecosystem.

Requirements

Ph.D. in plant or crop sciences, plant breeding, or related disciplines.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to collaborate.
Willingness to engage with industry stakeholders and the public.

Nice To Haves

Post-doctoral experience demonstrating leadership of independent or team-based research.
Candidates who use innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to breed improved crop varieties.

Responsibilities

Lead a program focused on cultivar and germplasm development in wheat and possibly other small grains, including oats.
Conduct original research in plant breeding and related disciplines, including quantitative genetics, genomics, plant pathology, biochemistry, and plant biotechnology.
Utilize innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to breed improved crop varieties.
Teach courses in plant breeding or other topics important to Crop Sciences undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Engage with industry stakeholders and the public.