Assistant Professor, Precision Agronomy

at  University of Saskatchewan

QUALIFICATIONS

This position requires a Ph.D. in either agronomy, crop science, soils science, remote sensing, environmental science, or a closely related discipline. The ideal candidate would have demonstrated experience in precision and digital technologies such as (but not limited to) remote sensing, yield mapping, proximally sensed crop and soil data, simulation models and machine learning techniques. The candidate must have excellent communication skills and show potential to participate in outreach activities aimed western Canadian producers. Expected outreach will include activities such as engagement with producers, industry and government, participation on industry committees and advisory boards, and participation in technology transfer and variety commercialization. Post-doctoral experience relevant to the position, and a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching is preferred. Candidates should be eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists (https://sia.sk.ca/). A proven track record of publications coupled with excellent interpersonal skills, and an ability to establish effective trust-based working relationships are considered essential. The successful candidate will work independently but also effectively with support staff and others as part of collaborative and multi-disciplinary teams. Consequently, a high level of collegiality and professionalism both within the department and beyond is expected. The successful candidate is expected to have an understanding and commitment to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, a city with a diverse and thriving economic base, a vibrant arts community and a full range of leisure activities. The University has a reputation for excellence in teaching, research and scholarly activities and is a member of the U15 Group of Canadian Universities. It offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to a student population of about 26,000. Over the next decade, the USask will work to becoming one of the top 10 medical-doctoral universities in Canada and one of a select few internationally in key areas - including Agriculture, one of the Universities Signature Areas of Research.
The College of Agriculture and Bioresources is an international leader in applied research and scholarship with expertise in, and integrated across, three primary scientific and social domains; food and bioproduct sciences; environment, ecology, and community; and sustainable production systems. It a 110-year reputation for teaching, research, and outreach and is a strength for the University of Saskatchewan. The College has played a pivotal role in the development of sustainable agriculture and food industries in Saskatchewan and continues its mission to advance the responsible use of land, water and bioresources to provide products and services that enhance the quality of life for the people of Saskatchewan and around the world. Our faculty is committed to providing an exceptional learning experience and preparing graduates for leadership in the new bio-economy.
The Department of Plant Sciences is a centre for teaching, research and outreach related to the development, production and management of field and horticulture crops and to the management of non-arable grasslands on the Canadian prairies. The department is currently composed of 27 faculty members. Within the department, the Crop Development Centre includes eight faculty and associated technical and administrative staff and graduate students. To support its research activities, the department employs 72 term research associates and post-doctoral fellows, and well over 116 support staff. It has access to a land base of >1,450 hectares, including two large research farms; 1,200 m2. of greenhouse space; field laboratories; seed storage areas and a seed cleaning plant; a controlled environment facility; and the Canadian Light Source.
The Crop Development Centre (CDC) is a field crop research organization within the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan. Focusing on plant breeding and pathology, CDC scientists deploy the latest scientific advances to improve the agronomic and end-use performances of spring wheat, durum, canary seed, barley, oat, flax, field pea, lentil, chickpea, dry bean, faba bean and soybean. Since its inception in 1971, the CDC has released over 500 commercial varieties in over 40 different crop types.

Please refer the Job description for details