Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Plant Biology

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Biology at Penn State, University Park campus, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor.

The search is open to any area of plant biology, an area of strength in our department and across Penn State. Successful candidates may work at any level of organization, from the molecular to the ecosystem level. Innovation in cutting-edge research approaches, including, but not limited to, cell and molecular biology, physiology, omics, bioinformatics, and fundamental research relevant to pressing societal challenges, is a key criterion. The successful applicant is expected to develop and/or maintain an independent, externally funded, and internationally recognized research program, leading to groundbreaking advances in their field; to provide excellent, innovative instruction to undergraduate and graduate students in the life sciences; and to contribute active service to the department, college, university, professional community, and the public.

Competitive applicants for the rank of Assistant Professor will possess a Ph.D. in biology, plant biology, or a related field before beginning employment at Penn State; will demonstrate potential for developing an externally funded and collaborative research program; and will demonstrate the potential to contribute to the Department's and College's teaching and service missions.

Candidates seeking the rank of Associate Professor should have the same qualifications as the assistant professor, as well as a strong track record of scholarly achievement, external funding, and demonstrated success in teaching and service.

Penn State's University Park Campus brings together a vast array of researchers presenting exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations. The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences serve as a hub for life sciences research at Penn State, bringing together scientists from across the University to address fundamental questions and societal challenges. The Huck Institutes supports Centers and Institutes, including the Plant Institute; graduate programs, including the Interdisciplinary Graduate Degree Program in Plant Biology; and manages shared and core facilities with instrumentation and expertise in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and other technologies.

This position features a competitive start-up package. Applications submitted electronically by August 24, 2026, will receive full consideration, and should include the following:

• A brief cover letter that highlights the applicant's most relevant qualifications for a faculty position at Penn State.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications.
• Two statements addressing:
  
  • Research accomplishments, plans, and vision, including anticipated funding strategies (up to 3 pages, including figures and references),
  • Teaching experience, philosophy, and/or interests (up to 3 pages). Share how you would contribute to creating/maintaining an inclusive and respectful environment for all students within teaching and learning spaces.

Application materials may comprise no more than 4 documents, each with a size limit of 5MB. Applicants may need to combine materials to meet the 4-document limit and should ensure all documents are uploaded and correct prior to final submission.

The Biology Department sits at the nexus of the life sciences at Penn State, where our highly collegial, interdisciplinary culture removes barriers to collaboration, enhances the value of our discoveries, and enriches our daily experiences. Biology is a welcoming community whose goal is to help all students, postdocs, staff, and faculty thrive. Our educational mission is to produce lifelong learners and a science-literate public, and to train the next generation of scientists and problem solvers. As part of our land-grant mission, we focus on benefiting our local and global communities. Our research has tangible, positive impacts on food security, health, economic development, sustainability, and conservation.

Questions about the position and the Department of Biology at Penn State may be directed at the Chair of the Faculty Search Committee, Prof. Michael Axtell, by e-mail at mja18@psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Apply online at https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Tenure-Track-Faculty-Position-in-Plant-Biology_REQ_0000077737-1

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.







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