Tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor in Rice Genomics

About the role

The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture seeks a tenure‑track Assistant or Associate Professor (80% research, 20% teaching) to lead a nationally recognized program in rice genomics and breeding systems. The position holds the Anheuser‑Busch and Arkansas Wholesalers Professorship in Plant Molecular Genetics.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct cutting‑edge research using RNA‑seq, genomic mapping, functional genomics, molecular marker development, high‑throughput gene discovery, CRISPR gene editing, pangenomics, genome assembly, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and multi‑omics integration.
• Collaborate with the university’s two public rice breeding programs to enable molecular selection, rapid trait deployment, genomic prediction, and marker‑enabled variety development.
• Secure extramural funding from federal agencies, commodity boards, and industry partners; publish in peer‑reviewed journals and communicate results to stakeholders.
• Teach one undergraduate and one graduate course annually in molecular breeding, genomics, or related topics; mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Breeding, Genetics, Genomics, or a closely related discipline (degree conferred before start date).
• Demonstrated ability to develop a strong research program and obtain external funding.
• Experience collaborating with breeding programs and interdisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• RNA‑seq
• Genomic mapping
• Functional genomics
• Molecular marker development
• High‑throughput gene discovery
• CRISPR gene editing
• Pangenomics
• Genome assembly
• Transcriptomics
• Proteomics
• Metabolomics
• Multi‑omics integration