Assistant Research Professor

Job Title
Assistant Research Professor

Requisition Number
FE04797

Working Title

Department Name
81120:PLANT PATHOLOGY

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Type of Position
Faculty

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Tenure Track Status
Non-Tenure Track

Required Education

A Ph.D. in agriculture, biology, plant pathology, agronomy, or a closely related field.

Required Related Experience

Research experience and relevant technical skills in plant pathology.

Required License/Registration/Certification

Ph.D.

Job Summary

This is a full-time, twelve-month, non-tenure-eligible position in the Research Title Series with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2026. The anticipated distribution of effort is 95% research and 5% service. Our new colleague will lead research that integrates laboratory and field work to address plant pathology problems through a multidisciplinary approach. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to apply modern techniques in plant pathology, microbiology, biochemistry, and/or molecular biology to study interactions among food/fuel crops, microbes, and environmental conditions that affect human and animal health (e.g., sustainable cropping systems, seed and soil microbiome management, and microbial and mycotoxin risk reduction). The successful candidate will also demonstrate expertise in sustainable seed and seed treatments for pathogen control. The successful candidate will help shape the next evolution of the field while recognizing and supporting the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s deep agricultural heritage.

The successful candidate is expected to: 1) develop a nationally recognized research program, as evidenced by publications in leading peer-reviewed scholarly journals; 2) successfully attract external funding to support research efforts, including funding for graduate students; 3) demonstrate a commitment to working with teams of researchers and Extension faculty/staff on interdisciplinary research problems; 4) contribute to undergraduate and graduate student research; and 5) contribute to the multi-functional, land-grant mission of the Department through outreach and engagement with stakeholders and by conducting research with applications for stakeholders.

Our new colleague’s role will include, but not be limited to:

• Design, plan, and carry out research projects focused on microbial biology for sustainable and safe agri-food systems
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex data using statistical methods
• Prepare manuscripts and publish research findings in peer-reviewed sources
• Present research at seminars, workshops, and conferences
• Pursue and obtain funding to support salary, benefits, and activities of the program following an initial investment by the department and college

For more information about the Department of Plant Pathology, please visit https://plantpathology.mgcafe.uky.edu/

Employment at UK is subject to fund availability and comes with comprehensive rewards, focusing on your total well-being and career development, with leadership striving to provide a strong work-life integration. The university generously contributes to employees’ retirement plans, medical coverage, and life insurance. In addition, UK offers optional benefits such as dental and vision insurance, additional retirement plans and much more. To learn more about these benefits, please visit: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/our-benefits.

To apply for this position, please submit an electronic application and upload the following documents:

• Cover Letter describing background and expertise specifically related to the position
• Curriculum Vita
• Statement of research interests and vision for research program (upload under Specific Request 1)
• Up to three selected reprints (upload under Specific Request 2)
• Contact information for at least three (3) professional references who may be contacted for a letter of reference

Review of applications will begin on January 27, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to engage learners with varied backgrounds. Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively. Commitment to using technology and innovation to enhance research in the laboratory and field.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply

Open Until Filled
Yes

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.