Assistant/Associate/Full Professor in Forest Bioproducts

Auburn University is a land-grant, Carnegie R1 institution located in east-central Alabama with a total enrollment of over 35,000 students. The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in natural resources disciplines, with world-class faculty leading research spanning biological, ecological, geospatial, socioeconomic, and policy aspects of forestry, wildlife, and natural resource conservation.

About the role

This is a tenure-track, 9-month appointment with a 65% research and 35% teaching split. The successful candidate will develop an extramurally funded program to expand education and applied research in forest bioproducts, including opportunities to create undergraduate and graduate certificates in collaboration with other faculty. The role involves building strong industrial ties with local and national forest bioproduct industries and leading the Forest Bioproducts Development Center. Exceptionally qualified candidates may be considered for the Regions Bank Professorship, which includes a modest salary supplement and additional operating funds.

Anticipated start date: January 1, 2027.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain an extramurally funded research program in forest bioproducts.
• Expand education through undergraduate and graduate certificates in forest bioproducts-related areas.
• Establish and maintain strong partnerships with local and national forest bioproduct industries.
• Lead the Forest Bioproducts Development Center within the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.
• Deliver science-based information to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students, fostering academic excellence and professional development.

Requirements

• PhD in forest bioproducts, wood science, or a related field at the time of employment.
• Demonstrated interest and capability in delivering science-based information to stakeholders.
• Willingness and ability to collaborate with industrial partners and initiate new stakeholder relationships.
• Eligibility to work in the United States at the time of appointment.

Qualifications

• Strong record of teaching and research in forest bioproducts, wood science, or related fields.
• Robust publication record in peer-reviewed journals with impactful research.
• Proven ability to attract research funding from federal agencies, industrial partners, and other sources.
• Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and commitment to student success.
• Enthusiasm for leading the Forest Bioproducts Development Center and developing academic certificates.

Additional Qualifications for Associate or Full Professor

• Demonstrated success in scholarship, publications, and securing grant funding for research in emerging forest bioproducts, wood-based composite materials, or construction materials.
• Track record of team research as both participant and leader, with a catalytic role in expanding the research and engagement portfolio of the Forest Bioproducts Development Center and the College.
• Outstanding communication skills, including interpersonal, written, verbal, presentation, and listening capabilities.
• Evidence of effective collaboration with faculty, university administration, and external partners.

Skills

• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
• Ability to develop and sustain an independent research program.
• Experience securing and managing external funding.
• Demonstrated leadership and collaboration.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package, including educational opportunities.
• Culture of support and work/life balance.
• Southern charm of the Auburn/Opelika area, with access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed and valued.