Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology

Position Overview

Salary range: $105,700 - $129,600 (annual). Off‑scale salaries and other components of pay may be offered when necessary to meet competitive conditions, qualifications, and experience.

An Assistant Professor (9‑month, tenure‑track) in Plant Pathology is being recruited by the Department of Plant Pathology in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Davis. Applications are encouraged from candidates with a strong background in current or emerging areas that fit within the department’s focus on plant pathology.

Open date: September 22, 2025
Most recent review date: Monday, Dec 1, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Final date: Monday, Sep 21, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

The successful candidate will develop a world‑class, externally funded research program that integrates both fundamental and applied aspects of fungal biology in the context of plant pathology. The appointment focuses on plant pathogenic, symbiotic, or mycotoxigenic fungi and fungal‑like organisms (e.g., oomycetes). Desired research topics include mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis, plant‑microbe interactions, population genomics of fungal pathogens, plant‑associated fungal microbiomes, and one‑health approaches to fungal disease and antifungal resistance.

Teaching responsibilities will include Introductory Mycology, an upper‑division lab class, and a general education course on fungi. Additional undergraduate and graduate teaching may be assigned. The candidate will mentor graduate and undergraduate students, participate in curricular development, and engage in outreach and service to academia and industry.

• Develop and sustain a world‑class research program with a focus on plant‑pathogen fungal biology.
• Secure and manage extramural funding for research activities.
• Teach and design courses in mycology and related subjects.
• Mentor and advise graduate, undergraduate, and professional students.
• Participate in departmental and university service, including outreach programs and collaboration with extension educators.
• Contribute to the University’s mission of inclusive excellence and access.

• Ph.D. in plant pathology, mycology, microbiology, or a related field; degree must be awarded by the start of the appointment.

• Postdoctoral experience.
• Leadership and organizational skill in developing research, teaching, and outreach programs.
• Evidence of scholarly productivity and publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated potential to obtain extramural support for research.
• Experience in developing and teaching undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Willingness to advise undergraduates and graduate students (M.S. and Ph.D.).
• Strong communication skills and collegiality.
• Commitment to the objectives of a land‑grant university and the Agricultural Experiment Station.

• Curriculum Vitae (most recently updated).
• Cover Letter (optional).
• Statement of research accomplishments and future research plans.
• Statement of teaching accomplishments and philosophy.
• Authorization to Release Information Form.
• Up to three publications.
• Transcripts (optional for applicants within five years of Ph.D.).

• 3–5 letters of reference required.

Apply link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
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The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States.

Davis, CA