Assistant​/Associate Professor of Forest Genetics, Genomics Tree Breeding

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

Faculty Rank: Open Rank (Tenure Track)

Posting Number: F2626P

Working Title: Assistant/Associate Professor of Forest Genetics, Genomics, & Tree Breeding

Department: Warnell-Sch Forestry & Nat Res

Posting Type: External

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Anticipated

Start Date:

08/01/2026

Job Posting Date: 01/14/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions To Applicants: To ensure full consideration, please apply by March 1st, 2026. Candidates must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, one-page statements of both teaching and research interests, unofficial transcripts of all college-level work, and names and contact information for three references. Individuals invited for interviews will be required to have three reference letters submitted, on their behalf, directly to the chair of the search committee.

University policy requires all candidates to consent to and authorize a background investigation ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). A background investigation and request of official transcripts will be conducted on a post-offer/pre-employment basis only. Expected start date on or before August 1, 2026. For additional information, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Dan Johnson (danjohnson).

The Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Forest Genetics, Genomics and/or Tree Breeding at the Assistant or Associate Professor level, with research, instruction, and university and professional service expectations as part of a 9-month appointment. Potential areas of research may include forest genetics, genomics, tree breeding, genomic selection, and gene editing technologies to address the molecular genetic basis of perennial traits relevant to forest productivity, health, adaptation, wood quality, and value-added biomaterials.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can build a collaborative research program with faculty in the Warnell School, across campus, and with research partners at regional, national, and international levels, employing these tools for forest health applications, conserving and restoring threatened forest tree species, and improving forest productivity.

Research responsibilities include development of an externally funded program that is recognized nationally and internationally. Teaching duties could include developing new undergraduate and graduate courses in Forest Genetics/Tree Improvement and Forest Biotechnology. Professional service includes serving on School/University committees and actively participating in professional/scientific societies.

Ph.D. degree prior to the starting date in Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, Crop and Soil Science, or a closely related field.

Appointment to Associate Professor requires a record consistent with promotion to Associate Professor at the Warnell School, such as strong evidence of emerging stature as a national authority, acquiring and administering external funding, ability to produce and communicate research products, and excellence in teaching and mentoring students.

Service at the Associate Professor level for 1-2 years is preferred for this rank.

Preferred qualifications include prior graduate or postdoctoral research training or industrial service in some area of plant genetics, genomics, biotechnology and/or breeding.

The ability to effectively communicate research findings to the forestry and plant biotechnology research communities, as evidenced by a strong publication record and engagement with stakeholders.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb).

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable.

Please visit the UGA Background Check website.