Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, invites applications from outstanding basic scientists for five tenure-track assistant professor positions that will be part of a new Center for Molecular Agriculture. With the establishment of this Center, we aim to build a team of scientists that will cooperatively address grand challenges in plant biology including, but not limited to, the molecular basis of complex traits, genome interactions with the biotic and abiotic environment, the role of metabolic and cellular processes in determining phenotypes, and the molecular/genetic basis for developmental plasticity and adaptation in changing environments. We seek individuals with vigorous and innovative research programs that address fundamental questions in plant biology and who are eager to be part of an interdisciplinary team that will discover basic principles that may contribute to improving agricultural productivity and sustainability on regional, national, and international scales. Candidates utilizing computational/modeling approaches; biosensor/imaging technologies; and working on molecular, organismal or ecosystem levels are all encouraged to apply. The successful candidates will be expected to develop internationally recognized and extramurally funded scholarly research programs, interact with diverse faculty across the Purdue campus, teach undergraduate and graduate level courses and excel in doing so, and function as active and involved members of the Center. This is an academic year appointment.
The Center is part of the Plant Sciences Research and Education Pipeline, which also includes facilities for genome editing, plant transformation, high-throughput phenotyping, and a plant commercialization incubator. Purdue is home to a dynamic research community of basic and applied plant scientists in the College of Agriculture and across the University. The Center is located in the newly renovated Lilly Hall with excellent modern lab space and plant- growth facilities. Facilities for field-based research are available near campus and throughout the state. Core facilities for genomics, bioinformatics, microscopy, metabolomics, and proteomics are available. Discovery Park promotes interdisciplinary research interactions and provides access to advanced analytical technologies and expertise. The Center is an integral part of the College of Agriculture, one of the worlds leading colleges of agricultural, food, life, and natural resource sciences and ranked number 8 globally in the 2014 QS World University Rankings. The College is deeply committed to the three land- grant missions (teaching, research, and extension), to international activities and perspectives that span all missions, and to supporting a diverse and inclusive environment focused on excellence in all we do. Purdue is an ADVANCE institution www.purdue.edu/dp/advance. The College has 11 academic departments and includes 330 faculty, 2710 undergraduate students, and 685 graduate students. The Colleges strategic plan can be accessed at https://www2.ag.purdue.edu/Pages/strategicplan.aspx. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in life, computational, or physical sciences, preferably with at least two years of post-doctoral experience or its equivalent, a strong publication record, the potential to develop a vigorous, extramurally funded research program, and a commitment to both hypothesis-driven research and teaching excellence. Applications should be submitted electronically to molecula...@purdue.edu and must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, two-page summary of research interests, statement of teaching objectives/interests, and the names and contact information for three references. Screening of applications will begin December 1, 2014 and will continue until the positions are filled. A background check is required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action Employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.
