Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Invasive Plant Management

The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University/Alabama Cooperative Extension System invites applications for an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist position in invasive plant management with an expected start date of August 2025. This position is a tenure-track, 12-month appointment, with 65% Extension and 35% research. The position will be responsible for developing an extramurally funded extension and applied research program addressing the identification, prevention, and control of non-native and/or invasive plants in non-agricultural systems. Additional expertise in the application of herbicides and other control techniques and methodologies is highly desirable.

The successful candidate is expected to work independently and in collaboration with other faculty and professionals in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University, and other relevant natural resource partners to: (1) develop and implement extension programming focusing on identification, prevention, and control of non-native/invasive plants in non-agricultural systems, (2) work with stakeholders to develop applied research to address the information needs regarding non-native/invasive plant species management in Alabama and the Southeast region, (3) serve in technical support and leadership roles for Regional Extension Agents (REAs) and external partners including state and federal agencies, forest industry, and non-governmental conservation organizations.

The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (cfwe.auburn.edu) is a national and international leader in forestry, wildlife, and natural resources programs and the flagship institution of Alabama's forest, wildlife, and natural resources-related enterprises, a significant component of the State's economic and employment contributions and impacts valued at more than $30 billion. The College is home to eight undergraduate degree programs and nearly 500 undergraduate students. Graduate student enrollment is more than 160 students and there is a total of 44 research, teaching, and extension faculty.

Auburn University (www.auburn.edu) is one of the nation's premier land, sea and space grant institutions with an enrollment of more than 30,000 graduate and undergraduate students. The University is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, its positive work environment, flourishing student life programs, and beautiful campus. The University is located in the city of Auburn in east-central Alabama approximately 100 miles southwest of Atlanta, GA and southeast of Birmingham, AL and is about 60 miles from the state capital (Montgomery).

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System ( ACES; www.aces.edu) is the primary Extension organization for the land-grant mission of Alabama A&M University and Auburn University in cooperation with Tuskegee University. ACES is dedicated to delivering research-based educational programs designed to empower individuals to improve their quality of life and economic well-being. Each of Alabama's 67 counties is home to an Extension Office supported by Regional Extension Agents across the state, and Specialists at both partner universities.

A PhD in forestry, weed science, plant sciences, biology, ecology, or a related field at the time employment begins. The successful candidate must demonstrate a compelling interest and capability to deliver science-based information to a variety of audiences as per the functions of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System ( ACES). Excellent written, organizational and communication skills are required and a commitment to the land-grant mission is essential. Ability to act creatively, confidently, and professionally when working with people from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, evidence of drive and initiative as demonstrated by personal experiences and previous employment, and a collaborative approach to working with others is required. Candidates must be willing and able to work closely with members of Alabama Extension's Forestry, Wildlife, and Natural Resource Team, professionals from other universities, forest managers, communities, and natural resource technical service providers. Ability to travel, including a current unrestricted driver's license, is also required. The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time the appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the term of employment.

Ideal candidates will have: (1) demonstrated capacity for excellence in Extension programming, (2) a strong track record for obtaining extramural funding to support applied research activities and supervising graduate students, (3) experience related to the use of herbicides to manage non-native/invasive plant species.

To apply please go to https://www.auemployment.com/hr/postings/50018, complete the online form and upload the required application documents: 1) cover letter addressing the candidate's experience pertinent to the responsibilities of the position, 2) current curriculum vita, 3) statement of research, 4) statement of philosophy on teaching at graduate and undergraduate levels, 5) copies of all graduate level academic transcripts, and 6) the names and contact information of at least three references. Review of applications will begin February 1, 2025, and will continue until a candidate accepts appointment.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/ EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. The Office of Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/ EEO) strives to ensure equitable working, living, and learning environment for members of the Auburn University community. Please visit their website to learn more.