The School of Natural Resources at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture invites applications for a 12-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Silviculture and Forest Management (90% Extension/10% Teaching). The individual must be committed to excellence in Extension and teaching, and have an interest in conducting applied research and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. The School of Natural Resources is devoted to providing a safe and welcoming environment to all. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
This position is responsible for leadership in planning, developing, implementing, evaluating, and reporting on a comprehensive statewide program in silviculture and forest management, and works with researchers within the University of Tennessee and external agencies to disseminate up-to-date, science-based information consistent with the mission of UTIA Extension. Programs are coordinated through numerous state and federal agencies and organizations, including the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry, Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Forest Service, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and Tennessee Forestry Association. This position works closely with the county Extension network and UTIA AgResearch and Education Centers, and coordinates UTIA’s participation in the Tennessee Master Logger Program. Potential Extension stakeholders in educational programs include forest landowners, loggers, foresters and other natural resource professionals, and county agents. Program delivery is achieved through mechanisms developed by the faculty member, including in-service trainings, printed publications, workshops, short courses, seminars, webinars, field days, demonstration sites, social media, and podcasts. This position is also responsible for the undergraduate silviculture course for the School of Natural Resources and teaches in the Forestry Field Camp.
Expectations of the position include securing extramural funding and conducting applied research in support of Extension programs, publishing in various venues including peer-reviewed literature, Extension publications, trade journals, and on-line platforms. This position collaborates with other faculty on programs including 4-H youth development. Frequent travel is expected.
Candidates must be committed to cooperating with diverse groups within and outside of the university and have the ability to work with clientele regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, and parental status.
The University of Tennessee is one of two land grant institutions in the state, and is the state’s public flagship university. The School of Natural Resources is the comprehensive natural resources program in the state, consisting of 31 teaching, research, and Extension faculty; 13 professional and 8 administrative staff members; and more than 350 students. The School’s mission is to advance the science and sustainable management of natural resources to promote their health, utilization, and appreciation in Tennessee, the region, and beyond through programs in teaching, research and Extension.
Knoxville offers a pleasant mix of urban culture and wildland recreational opportunities within close proximity. UT is located within easy driving distance to Asheville, Nashville, Atlanta, and the Great Smoky Mountains. In addition, USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis and U.S. Geological Survey scientists are located on or near campus, offering excellent opportunities for collaborative efforts. Oak Ridge National Laboratory is nearby and many opportunities for association and career development are provided by the University of Tennessee Oak Ridge Innovation Institute.
Review of applications begins March 24, 2023, and continues until the position is filled. Salary is commensurate with experience.
Required Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Silviculture or Forest Management completed prior to the position start date; strengths in oral and written communication, including interpersonal skills with the ability to connect and retain relationships both within the School of Natural Resources and beyond.
Preferred Qualifications: At least one forestry degree from an SAF-accredited program; education and/or applied work experience within the eastern U.S. deciduous forest biome; demonstrated experience in planning and implementing educational programs in the area of Silviculture or Forest Management; practical field experience in hardwood silviculture or forest management.
To Apply: In addition to the online application, upload the following documents as PDF files: a cover letter, a one-page statement of teaching and Extension philosophy, a one-page statement on diversity, equity, and inclusion, copies of transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work, a curriculum vitae detailing educational background, work experience, publications, and grants secured, and names and full contact information of three professional references, through the university’s online job portal. All documents should be pdf file types. Questions regarding this position may be directed to search committee co-chairs, Dr. David Mercker, dmercker@utk.edu, or Dr. Adam Taylor, mtaylo29@utk.edu.
