Assistant Professor of Production Horticulture

WE TRANSFORM LIVES. Everything we do is designed to improve the quality of life of the people in the state of Illinois, across the nation, and around the world. We discover, develop, translate, and disseminate knowledge to address societal concerns and train the next generation of experts and leaders in a way that empowers them to expand the boundaries of science to higher levels of understanding and influence.

The Department of Crop Sciences is where horticulture, plant genetics, biotechnology, business, data science, crop production, and sustainability join together through results-oriented faculty and students.

The Department of Crop Sciences and the College of Consumer, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) offer world-class laboratory, greenhouse, and field research facilities. In addition, the ACES is home to the Division of Nutritional Sciences (https://nutrsci.illinois.edu), the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition (https://fshn.illinois.edu), and a key partner in the Center for Digital Agriculture (https://digitalag.illinois.edu/). The Department of Crop Sciences also houses the Sustainable Student Farm (https://ssf.cropsciences.illinois.edu), a facility on campus that grows and provides 40 different fruits and vegetables to University of Illinois’ dining commons. This facility is run by graduate and undergraduate students and has worked with faculty to conduct applied horticulture research. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and supportive community of world-class life and computer sciences as well as engineering programs at the University of Illinois where our internationally-recognized faculty partner with the private sector to enhance education and training opportunities on a diversity of crops.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is located in the heart of the Midwest. The twin cities, which “sandwich” the University campus, are welcoming, diverse, vibrant. They are surrounded by one of the most productive agricultural ecosystems worldwide. The campus is not only a recognized Agricultural Tech Hub but Champaign and Urbana are well known for their gastronomy and culture, with the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts attracting artists from around the world. The University is conveniently located in proximity to affordable and beautiful neighborhoods with high-quality schools.

The goal of this search is to identify and hire an outstanding scientist to conduct applied research and scientific communication (Extension, teaching) that will support horticultural and/or specialty crop production in Illinois. Research topics should focus on helping growers address emerging challenges and opportunities in production horticulture, including, but not limited to improved climate resilience, production in urban or controlled environments, and improved environmental sustainability.We are seeking candidates with a proven ability to use innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to conduct high-impact applied research targeted at stakeholder needs. The successful candidate will have demonstrated interest and experience in scientific communication, and will contribute to both horticulture extension and education programs.

We seek candidates who will strengthen our efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusivity initiatives and who will contribute to programs that seek to increase participation from traditionally underrepresented groups in agricultural research and STEAM. Individuals with diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

A Ph.D. in horticulture, plant sciences, or a related discipline is required. Post-doctoral experience leading an independent or team-based research program is desired. Applicants should provide evidence of research, and scientific communication (extension, teaching) experience . The successful applicant must also demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communications skills, the ability to collaborate, and the willingness to engage with a wide variety of stakeholders and the public in Illinois and worldwide.

This is a 9-month, 100% time academic tenure-track position with the opportunity for summer appointment. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a comprehensive benefits package. The position is available as soon as possible after the closing date.

Please create your candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu and upload a cover letter, concise research, scientific communication (Extension, teaching), and DEI statements (< 1 pg each), a curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation from professional references. All requested information must be sent for your application to be considered.

The closing date is December 15, 2023, or when a suitable candidate is identified. Interviews may be conducted before the closing date, but all applications received by the close date will receive full consideration. For more information about this position, you may contact Dr. Kacie Athey, Search Committee Chair, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1201 W. Gregory Drive, Urbana, Illinois 61801. Telephone: (217) 244-9916, e-mail: kathey@illinois.edu.

More information on the Department of Crop Sciences is available at cropsciences.illinois.edu

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu