Assistant or Associate Professor – Space Biology / Astrobiology
Job Description
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is creating an environment that affirms community across all dimensions. The successful candidate will be a part of the Microbiology and Cell Science Department, contributing to the graduate curriculum, assisting with curriculum development for new BS, MS, and PhD programs in space sciences, and engaging in extension activities.
Qualifications
- A doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in the life sciences with a strong background and experience in any aspect of space biology and/or astrobiology is required.
- Candidates should have demonstrated skills in verbal/written communication and procurement of extramural funding.
- Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and committed to UF core values.
- Experience in publishing peer-reviewed papers as first authors is essential.
Preferred Qualifications
- Postdoctoral experience is desirable.
- Successful grantsmanship is preferred.
Background Information
The University of Florida is a Land-Grant, Sea-Grant, and Space-Grant institution, encompassing virtually all academic and professional disciplines. The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Florida Sea Grant program, and encompasses 16 on-campus academic departments and schools, 12 Research and Educational Centers (REC), 6 Research sites/demonstration units, and Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices in all 67 counties.
Expected Salary
Commensurate with Education and Experience
Required Qualifications
- A doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in the life sciences with a strong background and experience in any aspect of space biology and/or astrobiology is required.
- Candidates should have demonstrated skills in verbal/written communication and procurement of extramural funding.
- Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and committed to UF core values.
- Experience in publishing peer-reviewed papers as first authors is essential.
Special Instructions to Applicants
For full consideration, candidates should apply and submit materials by August 23, 2026. The position will remain open until a viable applicant pool is determined. Employment Conditions This position is available January 2027 and will be filled as soon thereafter as an acceptable applicant is identified. Compensation is commensurate with the education, experience, and qualifications of the selected applicant. Nominations Nominations are welcome. Nominations need to include the complete name and address of the nominee. This information should be sent to: Please refer to Requisition # 539530 Dr. Brent C. Christner, Professor Chair, Search and Screen Committee University of Florida Microbiology and Cell Science Department University of Florida 1355 Museum Drive Gainesville, FL 32611 Telephone: 352-392-1906 Electronic Mail: xner@ufl.edu
Application Information
Individuals wishing to apply should go online to Careers at UF and submit:
- A cover letter that states applicant’s interest in the position and qualifications relative to the credentials listed above
- A curriculum vitae
- Contact information (including email addresses) for three individuals willing to write letters of recommendation
- Unofficial transcripts
- Research statement with a maximum of 1,500 words
- Teaching statement with a maximum of 1,000 words
The selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered “official” if a designation of “Issued to Student” is visible. Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws.
The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a variety of cultural events, restaurants, year-round outdoor recreational activities, and social opportunities.