Assistant Professor of Sportfish Biology

Starting date: September 1, 2027, or as negotiated.

About the role

This is a tenure-track position in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Missouri (MU), part of the Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands, and Aquatic Systems. The successful candidate will develop an exciting and high-impact, nationally/internationally recognized, externally funded research program in conservation genetics with an emphasis in fisheries. The position will strengthen growing education programs, collaborate with established MU research centers to garner major grants, form innovative partnerships with private and public partners, and contribute to improving grant and publication metrics considered in the Association of American Universities’ (AAU) rankings.

This role will complement and collaborate with faculty in the Johnny Morris Institute, the School of Natural Resources, and other colleges and departments across MU. Collaborative efforts will also develop with scientists from the Missouri Department of Conservation, the USDA Forest Service Northern Forest Research Station (housed on campus), the USGS Missouri Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (housed on campus), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (facilities in Columbia), and the USGS Columbia Environmental Research Center (facilities in Columbia).

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an externally funded research program in conservation genetics with a fisheries emphasis.
• Teach undergraduate courses such as sportfish biology, fisheries, population dynamics, and aquaculture, as well as graduate courses related to the individual’s expertise (3-4 courses per year).
• Collaborate with faculty, research centers, and external partners to secure major grants and advance institutional research goals.
• Contribute to improving grant and publication metrics for AAU rankings.
• Engage with state and federal agencies, private stakeholders, and public partners.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Fisheries, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a closely related discipline by the time of appointment.
• Strong background in fisheries, resource management, and freshwater conservation.
• Record of impactful peer-reviewed publications.
• Teaching experience.
• Demonstrated grantsmanship with high productivity relative to career stage.
• Expertise that complements existing institutional strengths in ecology, evolution, genetics, and conservation.
• Interest in collaborating with state and federal agencies and other stakeholders.

Benefits

This position is eligible for University benefits, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Retirement benefits.
• Educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses.

For additional information, visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website.

Employment visa sponsorship may be available for this position.