University of Missouri-Columbia Seeks Assistant Professor (Beef Genetics)

The University of Missouri invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor in Beef Genetics Extension and Research in the Division of Animal Sciences (https://animalsciences.missouri.edu/), an academic unit of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. This tenure-track, 9-month position will have approximately 60% research and 40% extension responsibilities. The selected candidate is expected to develop nationally recognized, extramurally funded, independent extension programs and engage in collaborative research. The successful beef genetics state specialist would provide leadership to regional specialists regarding beef genetics programming (The Role and Responsibilities of State Specialists). This position serves as part of a team of State Extension Specialists with beef focus both in the Division (reproduction focus and nutrition focus) and in other Divisions (e.g. beef health, economics, engineering etc.).

 

Extension emphasis will be focused on beef genetics, possibly including adoption of genetic technologies (genetic prediction, genomic testing, index selection, genomic management), crossbreeding, simulation and evaluation of breeding objectives, data collection, data analysis, value added marketing, novel trait deployment, and public support of agricultural science. Research emphasis should complement extension programming and collaborate with MU researchers. The faculty member would also have the opportunity to interact with the National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) and the Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Program. These provide access to an audience of progressive beef producers

for example, the Show-Me-Select program requires all natural service sires to have genomic-enhanced EPDs. The successful candidate would participate in the nationally recognized eBEEF.org team. The successful extension specialist would help coordinate and speak at regional, state, and national meetings.

 

The University of Missouri is an AAU member, Carnegie R1 institution, and one of the most comprehensive land grant universities in the nation, including agriculture, veterinary medicine, human medicine, engineering, journalism and law. Excellent facilities and opportunities for collaboration across the campus, system and state are available. Office space will be in the Animal Science Research Center, which houses research and teaching facilities, including: nutrition, metabolism, physiology, and molecular laboratory space and equipment

the Brody Environmental Center, with environmental chambers for livestock studies

a laboratory animal facility

large animal rooms, and fully-equipped surgical facilities for lab animals and livestock. The University of Missouri has several herds of cattle that are part of the four Research, Extension, and Education Centers within the Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station (https://moaes.missouri.edu/).

 

A unique attraction is the opportunity to collaborate with our nationally-recognized researchers in all animal science disciplines, including genetics, reproduction, and nutrition. The University of Missouri is a leader in genomic research, with internationally recognized researchers in genome assembly, genome annotation, comparative genomics, whole-genome sequence analysis, functional genomics, population genomics, genome-wide association analysis, genomic prediction, and novel trait development. Further, MU is a leader in the use of genetically engineered livestock for agricultural applications, hosting the NIH-funded National Swine Resource and Research Center (NSRRC

https://nsrrc.missouri.edu/). Outstanding collaborative opportunities exist with other Divisions in the College, as well as the College of Veterinary Medicine, the School of Medicine, School of Journalism and other units on campus.

 

Importance of Beef Production in Missouri: Missouri typically ranks 2nd or 3rd in the U.S. for cow-calf numbers (https://agriculture.mo.gov/topcommodities.php). Missouri is home to the offices of at least 5 breed associations (American Angus Association, American Hereford Association, American International Charolais Association, American Maine-Anjou Association, American Shorthorn Association), and researchers have strong ties to other breed associations. In addition to vibrant commercial beef production, Missouri boasts some of the most renown seedstock producers in the U.S.

 

MU is the flagship campus of the University of Missouri System. The University is located midway between St. Louis and Kansas City in Columbia, a vibrant community consistently ranked as one of the best small cities for livability, in the U.S. The Division of Animal Sciences is one of the top departments in the university in terms of extramural funding, research productivity and student numbers. The graduate program is among the top-ranked in the nation, by the National Research Council. The division values diversity and welcomes members of all groups among faculty, staff and students.

 

Ph.D. in animal science, genetics, statistics or closely related field by the time of appointment

 

• Demonstrated potential for excellence in extension and research, ideally in areas that will complement existing Division extension and research programs

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to facilitate extension, outreach, research, and interactions with faculty, staff, students, and the various constituency groups of the Missouri and U.S. beef industry

To apply, visit https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings, Job ID 45670 and submit:

• Letter of interest addressing the applicant’s qualifications

• Comprehensive curriculum vitae

• Statement of extension philosophy

• Statement of research interests and objectives

• Academic transcripts

• Address, phone number

• Email addresses of 4 references

 

Review of applications will begin on March 15, 2023 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

 

Specific inquiries regarding this position may be directed to the search committee chair, Marcia Shannon (CarlsonM@missouri.edu).

 

The University of Missouri is fully committed to achieving the goal of a diverse and inclusive academic community of faculty, staff and students. We seek individuals who are committed to this goal and our core campus values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence. Candidates applying for this position are required to provide a statement addressing how they would utilize their former experience and knowledge to promote diversity and inclusion at the university and how that commitment would add value to Animal Sciences.

 

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, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Vice Chancellor of Human Resource Services/Affirmative Action officer at 573-882-4256.

 

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Disability Inclusion and ADA Compliance Manager at 573-884- 7278.