Assistant​/Associate Research Scientist Advancing Circular Bioeconomy Systems

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Classification

Title:

Researcher AC
FLSA Faculty Rank:
Open Rank
Contract Type:
Fiscal (12 mo.)
Tenure Status:
Non-Tenure Track

A Ph.D. in biochemical/chemical/agricultural/systems engineering, agricultural science, qualitative biology, or equivalent.

The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at the University of Georgia seeks to recruit an Assistant or Associate Research Scientist for the Circular Bioeconomy Systems (CBS) initiative. This non-tenured track position involves 95% research and 5% service responsibilities. The incumbent, housed in UGA CAES, will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Engineering, Forestry and Natural Resources, Arts and Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences, and other Colleges/Schools.

The candidate is expected to maintain a nationally recognized research program, produce and publish impactful work, and contribute to teaching and outreach missions. Responsibilities include coordinating and drafting external funding proposals for the CBS initiative, interacting with undergraduate/graduate students and stakeholders, and supporting the university’s mission.

A Ph.D. with a strong background and proven success in modeling biophysical systems is required. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in biophysical modeling, life‑cycle‑analysis, big‑data, digital twins, and advanced modeling and AI techniques. Postdoctoral training and a strong publication record are preferred. Internship or hands‑on skills in biosystems industries and proficiency in preparing interdisciplinary grant proposals are favored.

The incumbent should understand systems producing biomass on land, in water, and in controlled environments, as well as technical processes that utilize biomass as feedstock for materials and chemicals. Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills are essential for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

• Develop and refine biophysical models in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Coordinate and lead the construction of holistic, integrated biosystems, ecosystems, and socio‑economic system models.
• Identify grand challenges in advancing sustainable circular bioeconomy systems.
• Determine critical knowledge, techniques, and skills needed to address these challenges.
• Prioritize actions to meet short‑ and long‑term CBS goals.
• Develop methods to prototype and extend innovations for user adoption.

Position is a position of trust:
No.
Has operation, access, or control of financial resources:
No.
Requires driving:
Yes.
Does not involve direct interaction with children under 18 or direct patient care:
No.
Does not involve security access requiring IT or personnel records:
No.
Credit/Background check required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For details, see UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background investigation policy requires a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and satisfactory credit check if applicable. Pre‑employment drug test may be required for high‑risk positions.