Assistant Professor of Practice

The University of Arizona School of Plant Sciences seeks to hire an Assistant Professor of Practice to strengthen undergraduate education in the broad areas of plant microbiology, plant pathology, and microbial and plant biotechnology. Plant microbiology is at the forefront of advances in agriculture, industry, and the biotech sector. Together, plant microbiology, plant pathology, and plant- and microbial biotechnology are evolving rapidly with the advent of new tools, technologies, and innovations that support the food, fiber, fuel, and pharmaceutical supply vital to earth’s growing population. The successful applicant will have expertise in recent scientific and technological advances in plant microbiology, plant pathology, and biotechnology from diverse perspectives.

The successful applicant will have a Ph.D. with significant professional experience in plant-related microbiology, plant pathology, or biotechnology relevant to plants and microbes, or a related field; have experience teaching in a college or university classroom; have a demonstrated commitment to working with students, colleagues, and constituencies representing a vast range in backgrounds, histories, and experience; and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the current research areas, innovations in applications, and technological and regulatory environment.

As a Land Grant University, The University of Arizona is committed to training students for 21st century jobs and enhancing opportunities in Arizona. The School of Plant Sciences, which has a record of excellence in cutting edge plant and microbial biology, will train a generation of leaders prepared to enhance agricultural productivity, improve human and environmental health, and develop innovative solutions that expedite progress in these areas. We seek candidates who will enhance undergraduate education in plant microbiology, plant pathology, and plant- and/or microbial biotechnology, and who recognize the opportunity to leverage faculty research excellence, provide skilled instruction, support curriculum development and academic partnerships, and facilitate practical laboratory training in an array of applications.

• The rank of Assistant Professor of Practice for the position is contingent on years of practice and training completed in the microbiology, plant pathology, and biotechnology fields. The primary responsibility of this position will be to teach existing graduate level courses, and design new graduate level courses as required in the broad areas of plant microbiology, plant pathology, and microbial and plant biotechnology using the knowledge of Plant Microbiology with Expertise in the Study of Fungi; Principles and Application of Molecular Genetics in Basic and Applied Research; and Science Communication.
• Teach existing undergraduate courses, which may be offered in-person or online, in fungal biology, plant pathology, microbial genetics, and plant biotechnology, with the opportunity to design new courses at the undergraduate level in areas such as plant disease management, characterization of plant pathogenic agents, technical and research skills for undergraduates, plant microbiology, or other foci aligned with the incumbent’s area of expertise using the knowledge of Plant Microbiology with Expertise in the Study of Fungi; Principles and Application of Molecular Genetics in Basic and Applied Research; and Science Communication.
• Develop, investigate, and lead the implementation of innovative and inclusive teaching approaches that promote a learner-centered instructional environment, enhance student engagement, and increase diversity; and to expand collaborations with industry and community partners to enhance undergraduate student training using the knowledge of Plant Microbiology with Expertise in the Study of Fungi; Principles and Application of Molecular Genetics in Basic and Applied Research; and Science Communication.
• Assume a 90% Instruction and 10% Service - a 90% instructional position equates to teaching ca. 18 credits per academic year using the knowledge of Plant Microbiology with Expertise in the Study of Fungi; Principles and Application of Molecular Genetics in Basic and Applied Research; and Science Communication.
• In their service component, the Assistant Professor of Practice will be expected to serve as a voting member of the faculty in their units and serve on unit committees using the knowledge of Plant Microbiology with Expertise in the Study of Fungi; Principles and Application of Molecular Genetics in Basic and Applied Research; and Science Communication.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of evidence-based pedagogical approaches, classroom teaching excellence, online course management programs, online education, and student engagement.
• Knowledge and experience with plant microbiology innovations or applications, plant pathology challenges and interventions, and biotechnology techniques and applications.
• Familiarity with relevant industry or agricultural regulations and documentation, and technology-based approaches to problem solving.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• A Ph.D. from a nationally accredited college or university in plant-related microbiology, plant pathology, or biotechnology relevant to plants and / or microbes, or a related field, by August 2024.
• College or University teaching experience.
• Expertise in recent scientific and technological advances in plant microbiology, plant pathology, and biotechnology from diverse perspectives.