Assistant Professor, SK Wheat Development Commission Chair in Applied Genomics and Pre-Breeding

Job Description

Job title: Assistant Professor, SK Wheat Development Commission Chair in Applied Genomics and Pre-Breeding

Company: University of Saskatchewan

Job description: Assistant Professor, SK Wheat Development Commission Chair in Applied Genomics and Pre-BreedingThe Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) invites applications for an applied genomics and pre-breeding chair in cereal crops. This is a continuing status (tenure-track) position in applied genomics and pre-breeding and will be housed within the Crop Development Centre (CDC). The successful candidate will commence a strategic and productive applied research program with an emphasis on wheat and its relatives (95%). Activity in one or more other small grain cereals including barley, oat, and/or canary seed (5%) is expected. The appointee will develop a genomics informed, field-based pre-breeding and genetics program focused on identifying and characterizing genetic diversity for delivery to crop improvement programs targeting western Canadian agriculture. The chair will emphasize genomic and modern pre-breeding approaches in one or more areas related to genetics, genomics, physiology, disease and insect resistance, abiotic stresses and/or nutritional quality. It is expected that the successful candidate will integrate discovery research, exploration of gene banks, and multi-omics strategies to achieve the goals of the program. The appointee will teach at the undergraduate and/or graduate level in the Department of Plant Sciences and will be required to supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students and mentor post-graduate fellows. Outreach duties will also be required. The appointee will establish a competitive and extramurally funded research program with a focus on applied genomics and pre-breeding. Research should complement the existing CDC wheat variety development programs and publish the findings in leading peer-reviewed journals. Collaboration with local, national and international programs is expected. The research conducted should be eligible for Government of Canada Tri-Council funding.Salary bands for this position for the 2025-2026 academic year are as follows: Assistant Professor: $110,489 to $131,909. This position includes a comprehensive benefits package which includes a dental, health and extended vision care plan, pension plan, life insurance (compulsory and voluntary), academic long-term disability, sick leave, travel insurance, death benefits, an employee assistance program, a professional expense allowance, and a flexible health and wellness spending program.QUALIFICATIONSThis position requires a Ph.D. in plant genetics, crop breeding, or a closely related discipline, and a demonstrated understanding of crop improvement. Demonstrated experience in managing and analyzing large and complex datasets is essential. The candidate must have excellent communication skills and show potential to participate in outreach activities aimed at producers. Expected outreach activities will include activities such as engagement with producers, industry and government, participation on industry committees and advisory boards, and participation in technology transfer and variety commercialization. At least two years of post-doctoral experience relevant to the position, with a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching is preferred. Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists ( ). A proven track record of publications, excellent interpersonal skills, and an ability to establish effective trust-based working relationships are considered essential. The successful candidate will work independently, will work effectively with support staff and as part of collaborative and multi-disciplinary teams. The successful candidate is expected to have an understanding and commitment to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, a city with a diverse and thriving economic base, a vibrant arts community and a full range of leisure activities. The University has a reputation for excellence in teaching, research and scholarly activities and is a member of the U15 Group of Canadian Universities. It offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to a student population of about 20,000. Over the next decade, the USask will work to becoming one of the top 10 medical-doctoral universities in Canada and one of a select few internationally in key areas – including Agriculture, one of the Universities Signature Areas of Research.The College of Agriculture and Bioresources is an international leader in applied research and scholarship with expertise in, and integrated across, three primary scientific and social domains; food and bioproduct sciences; environment, ecology and community; and sustainable production systems. It has a 110-year reputation for teaching, research, and outreach and is a strength for the University of Saskatchewan. The College has played a pivotal role in the development of sustainable agriculture and food industries in Saskatchewan and continues its mission to advance the responsible use of land, water and bioresources to provide products and services that enhance the quality of life for the people of Saskatchewan and around the world. Our faculty is committed to providing an exceptional learning experience and preparing graduates for leadership in the new bio-economy.The Department of Plant Sciences is a Centre for teaching, research and outreach related to the development, production and management of field and horticulture crops and to the management of non-arable grasslands on the Canadian prairies. The department is currently composed of 27 faculty members. Within the department, the Crop Development Centre includes eight faculty and associated technical and administrative staff and graduate students. To support its research activities, the department employs 72 term research associates and post-doctoral fellows, and well over 116 support staff. It has access to a land base of
1,450 hectares; 1,200 m2. of greenhouse space; field laboratories; seed storage areas and a seed cleaning plant; a controlled environment facility; and the Canadian Light Source.The Crop Development Centre (CDC) is a field crop research organization integrated within the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan. Focusing on plant breeding and pathology, CDC scientists deploy the latest scientific advances to improve the agronomic and end-use performances of spring wheat, durum, canary seed, barley, oat, flax, field pea, lentil, chickpea, dry bean, faba bean and soybean. Since its inception in 1971, the CDC has released over 500 commercial varieties in over 40 different crop types.APPLICATION PROCEDUREApplications, including an up-to-date CV, statement of research, statement on mentorship and teaching philosophy, statement on equity, diversity, and inclusion, academic transcripts, and contact information for three referees, should be submitted as a single PDF file to:Dr. Curtis J. Pozniak, Professor (CDC) and Director,
Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan,
51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7N 5A8.
Email:ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThe University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. More information about the University of Saskatchewan ( ) , College of Agriculture and Bioresources (www.agbio.usask.ca), the Department of Plant Science ( ) and the Crop Development Centre ( ) can be found online.For best consideration, applications should be received by April 18th, 2025. The University of Saskatchewan believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation, and creativity. All members of the university community share a responsibility for developing and maintaining an environment in which differences are valued and inclusiveness is practiced. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. Women, indigenous people, and other minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. Due to federal immigration requirements, we also ask candidates to indicate whether they are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or are otherwise already authorized to work at this position for the duration of the appointment, with an explanation if this last category is indicated. In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.Status: Continuing Status
Employment Group: USFA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Posted Date: 3/10/2025
Closing Date: Until Filled The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.

Location: Saskatoon, SK

Job date: Thu, 13 Mar 2025 05:35:18 GMT