Professor Open Rank - Small Grain Breeding

Plant Breeding (Small Grains)

We Transform Lives. Everything we do is designed to improve the quality of life of the people in the state of Illinois, across the nation, and around the world. We seek an outstanding scientist to advance food security through the genetic improvement of small grain crops. This position will lead a program with national visibility and international relevance, focused on cultivar and germplasm development in wheat and possibly other small grains, including oats.

Potential breeding targets include improved yield, adaptation, disease resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, end-use quality, nutrition, and sustainability. The successful candidate will have a strong record of original research in plant breeding and related disciplines, including quantitative genetics, genomics, plant pathology, biochemistry, and plant biotechnology. Preference will be given to candidates who use innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to breed improved crop varieties.

The selected candidate will also possess demonstrated interest and experience in student education and training and will teach courses in plant breeding or other topics important to Crop Sciences undergraduate and graduate degree programs. A Ph.D. in plant or crop sciences, plant breeding, or related disciplines is required. Post-doctoral experience demonstrating leadership of independent or team-based research is desired. The successful applicant must also demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to collaborate, and a willingness to engage with industry stakeholders and the public.

The Department of Crop Sciences and College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences offers world-class laboratory, greenhouse, and field research facilities. This position builds upon novel germplasm developed by our vibrant breeding program for soft red winter wheats and oats grown throughout the central United States and offers excellent resources to support further genetic improvements. The successful candidate will be eligible to be considered for the Siemer Professorship of Wheat Breeding, an endowed faculty position with salary and programmatic support.

The successful candidate will also join a collaborative ecosystem of life and data sciences research at the University of Illinois.

Salary & Appointment Details

This is on a 9/12-month basis, 100% time academic, tenure-track position with opportunity for summer appointment. The salary range for this position is $93,000-$160,000. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a comprehensive benefits package. The position is available as soon as possible after the closing date. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Please create your candidate profile at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and upload a cover letter, statements of research, teaching, and outreach goals, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for 3 professional references. Letters of recommendation and transcripts may be requested at a later date. The closing date is August 17, 2026 or when a suitable candidate is identified. Interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date, but all applications received by the close date will receive full consideration.

For further information regarding the application process, you may contact Mr. Broderick Williamson, brodsr. For additional information, you may also contact:
Dr. Tiffany Jamann, Search Committee Chair, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1102 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61801. Telephone: , e-mail: tjamann.

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 17, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through  will not be considered. For questions regarding the application process, please contact .

All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Individuals with diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

More information on the Department of Crop Sciences is available inois.edu

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be…