| The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Oklahoma State University invited applicants for a 9-month, full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the discipline of molecular plant-microbe interactions with 75% research and 25% teaching responsibilities. We seek applications from dynamic and motivated scientists who have molecular/biochemical expertise in one or more of the following areas: plant pathology, plant-microbial symbiosis, or the phytobiome. Candidates with demonstrated capabilities to apply cutting-edge systems biology approaches to better understand plant disease resistance mechanisms or beneficial effects of plant-microbe interactions are preferred. The successful applicant will be expected to build a nationally recognized, competitively funded research program in the area of plant=microbe interactions with applications to Oklahoma agriculture. This position requires a Ph.D. degree and at least 2 years of postdoctoral training. RATIONALE: Microbes play an important role in plant pathogenesis, but also contribute to supporting plant growth and development. The utilization of biochemical and molecular biology techniques along with computational analysis of pertinent large datasets are key tools to understanding plant-microbe interactions at the molecular level. New knowledge on plant disease resistance mechanism or beneficial plant-microbial interactions is essential to breed pathogen-resistant plants or to enhance beneficial microbe effects on plant health and development. The successful candidate will conduct fundable research on plant-microbial interactions, and complement our graduate program. RELATIONSHIP TO DIVISION OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DASNR) INITIATIVE TEAMS OR STRATEGIC PLAN: Research on plant microbe interactions is indispensable for productive agricultural systems and fits well within the overall goal to strengthen the DASNR agricultural mission. The multi-disciplinary environment of Oklahoma State University provides ample opportunities for collaboration with faculty members from the departments of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Plant and Soil Sciences, Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Natural Resource Ecology and Management, National Institute for Microbial Forensics & Food and Agricultural Biosecurity and Plant Biology, Ecology and Evolution. TEACHING IMPACT: The successful candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses relative to his/her expertise and the needs of the department. The appointee is expected to teach one undergraduate course and one graduate course per year. The graduate level course will be designed to support the graduate teaching needs of multiple DASNR and life sciences departments and be related to the field of expertise of the appointee. Having the skills to deliver undergraduate material online to citizens throughout the state would be a plus. POTENTIAL SOURCES OF GRANT FUNDING: The acquisition of extramural funding obtained through major federal sources such as USDA, NSF, DOE, or NIH is expected of all hires. The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has a long tradition of hiring well-funded successful research faculty. RELATIONSHIP TO COUNTY EXTENSION: All Biochemistry and Molecular Biology faculty are encouraged to participate in community outreach which can contribute to the overall extension mission of our Division. All faculty hires will be encouraged to participate with extension by contributing their expertise in the development of science-based educational programs for the purpose of solving local issues and managing natural resources wisely. SALARY: Competitive and commensurate with education, training and experience. The appointment also comes with competitive start-up funds and ample laboratory space. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications will e reviewed beginning December 1, 2019, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified. DATE POSITION IS AVAILABLE: September 1, 2020, or as soon thereafter as an outstanding candidate is available. APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Interested applicants must apply via https://jobs.okstate.edu for the position labeled req#7244. As part of the application process, please provide a PDF of the following: 1) a cover letter indicating interest, qualifications and experience, 2) A CV that includes educations background, list of publications, and extramural funding, 3) up to three reprints of peer-reviewed manuscripts, 4) contact information for three references, 5) a teaching philosophy, and 6) a summary of future research plans. The committee will send out requests for references and applicants will be notified before references are contacted. Letters of reference will not be accepted from the applicant but must be sent in by the referee. Letters of reference will be sent to Professor Ramanjulu Sunkar, c/o Melissa Hatchett at melissa.hatchett@okstate.edu. Questions in reference to the position may be addressed to: Dr. John E. Gustafson, Professor and Department Head, at 405-744-6189, or john.gustafson@okstate.edu. More information about the department is available at: http://biochemistry.okstate.edu More information about OSU and Stillwater can be accessed on various websites including: www.okstate.edu www.visitstillwater.org www.stillwaterchamber.org Oklahoma State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/E-verify employer committed to diversity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For assistance with the application process or to request an accommodation to enable application, contact OSU Human Resources, 106 Whitehurst, Stillwater, OK 74078 or call 405-744-7401. OSU is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans for its openings. For more information go to eeo.okstate.edu.
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