University of Missouri-Columbia

Assistant/Associate/Full Research Professor and State Extension Specialist, Rice Agronomy

Posted on January 29, 2025
University of Missouri-Columbia

Position Overview

The Division of Plant Science and Technology (DPST) in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri (MU), a land-grant institution, seeks an Assistant/Associate/Full Professor and State Extension Specialist for rice agronomy. This 12-month non-tenure-track faculty position with a 60% research and 40% extension appointment is located at the University of Missouri’s (MU) Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center in Portageville, MO.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will focus on applied agronomic research to improve sustainable rice production in southeast Missouri. The soils and topography of southeastern Missouri (the most northern region of U.S. rice production) offers researchers a unique opportunity to study production in both paddy and row rice systems. Conducting rice variety trials and management of rice in rotation with other crops for optimum yields and quality is a central responsibility. In addition, the candidate is expected to provide leadership to discover and apply innovative tools and practices for management of water, fertilizer, insecticides, fungicides and other inputs to improve efficiency of rice production. The work will include planning, designing, and conducting field experiments (including data collection and statistical analyses) with input from producers to target research projects relevant to the Missouri rice producing region. A significant portion of the position is supported by the Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council (MRRMC). Strong collaboration and a working relationship with the MRRMC will be required. Collaboration with public and private researchers, farmers, and extension specialists within Missouri and other states is expected. Availability to rice producers to answer questions relative to rice production is critical. Ability to secure extramural funding and publish research findings is required. It is expected that the research-based information will be disseminated to producers, industry and the scientific community via extension presentations and other publications including refereed journal articles.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in agronomy, soil science, agricultural engineering, or related field by the time of appointment.  

Candidates will be evaluated on: Proficiency in rice production practices, including knowledge of weed and disease/insect control, fertility, tillage, and irrigation. Excellent oral skills to communicate with farmers and other commodity stakeholders and the ability to work well in a collaborative team are essential. Other preferred skills include experience in an aspect of precision agriculture (such as digital technology as it relates to modernizing farming practices), the ability to secure funding, a knowledge of operating and maintaining plot and farm-scale equipment, and proven experience in data analysis, and writing (e.g., grant proposals, scientific publications, and extension publications).

How to Apply

To view the full announcement and apply for this job, go to https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings, Job ID 54574. Please submit a resume including a letter of application explaining suitability with qualifications sought, a list of recent publications, academic transcripts, and contact information for at least 3 references. 

Questions pertaining to the job may be directed to Dr. Kevin Bradley, Chair of the Search Committee, at 573 882-1239.  Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Human Resource Services at (573) 882-7976 or muhrs@missouri.edu.

Review of applications will begin February 20, 2025 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.