Associate professor in plant biology, with focus on the molecular mechanisms of photoprotection of photosynthesis. - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

UPSC and the Department of plant physiology seeks an associate professor for independent research on the molecular mechanisms behind photoprotection of photosynthesis, and to a minor part also teaching in plant biology. This permanent full-time position, starts 1/1 2022.

Background

The Department of plant physiology has a long tradition of leading photosynthesis research and advanced instrumentation. The processes behind the capacity of the photosynthetic light reaction to adjust its efficiency, for example under conditions of high light intensity, cold or drought, has been a major area of research and the department seeks now an associate professor to continue this line of research.

Duties

To conduct independent research on the molecular mechanisms behind photosynthesis' protection against excess light. To a small extent (10-20%) to lead teaching on the Department's courses in Plant Biology.

Eligibility requirements

According to Chapter 4, Section 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance, a person shall be qualified for appointment as Associate Professor if he or she

• within an area has demonstrated educational expertise and holds a doctorate or has attained equivalent academic competence or other professional skills relevant with regard to the subject area of the appointment.

Applicants must have documented expertise in the field of photosynthesis regulation, especially various protection mechanisms against high light intensity, cold and/or drought, so-called "non-photochemical quenching". The expertise will include biophysical methods for studying photosynthesis, but also biochemical and also genetic methods. Applicants must also have documented expertise in research on both higher plants, such as Arabidopsis and / or trees, and microalgae and be well acquainted with current research to optimize plant photosynthesis, among other things by designing the molecular regulation of protection against excess light.

Assessment criteria and their weight

In the selection of candidates, emphasis will primarily be put on the degree of scientific expertise. Next, the degree of pedagogical expertise will be taken into account. Equal attention shall be put on the assessment of pedagogical skills as scientific skills. In addition, regard will be given to the degree of communication and co-operation ability, as well as other skills relevant to the area of the position and the tasks that will be part of the employment.

Scientific expertise

Scientific expertise shall be demonstrated through independent scientific productivity. The criteria for assessment are:

• breadth and depth of research – quality and scope
• originality of research
• productivity
• contributions to the international research community
• assignments within the research community
• the ability to competitively obtain external research funding
• collaboration with the surrounding society

Pedagogical expertise

The pedagogical expertise for employment as associate professor should be demonstrated by documented experience of teaching with scientific foundation at university level. The criteria for evaluation are:

• an ability to plan, implement and evaluate teaching and an ability to supervise and examine students at every level of education
• an ability to vary teaching methods and examination formats in relation to anticipated study results and the nature of the subject
• experience of collaboration with the surrounding society in planning and implementation of education
• participation in the development of learning environments, teaching aids and study resources
• a reflective approach to student learning and one’s own role as a teacher

Pedagogical expertise can be attained through education in university pedagogy, other education of relevance for teaching at a university level or documented and proven experience teaching at the university level.

Further qualifications

Criteria for the degree of communication and collaboration ability are quality and scope of previous experience.

Application

The application should preferably be written in English, and include the following items:

1. A personal cover letter, including contact information
2. Certified copies of relevant university degrees and diplomas
3. Copies of five research publications relevant to the position, numbered according to the publication list
4. Attachments to a pedagogical portfolio (see p. 3.6 in Umu Application form)
5. Certificates or documents from appraisals from e.g. the Head of Department, Director of Studies, colleagues, external assessors and students.
6. CV/Umu Application form
   Fill in the application form (word). Submit it attached to your application in the Varbi system as your CV. The following information must be provided in the application form:

• basic information that includes academic and professional qualifications
• a list of articles published
• an account of research experience
• an account of pedagogical experience and activities
• an account of experiences of developing and managing activities and staff
• an account of experiences regarding interacting with the surrounding society and popularizing science
• a research plan (maximum 3 pages)
• references, including contact details

See instructions for what to include in the application, as well as how to describe scientific and educational activities (pdf)

Applications should be made via e-recruitment system Varbi and be received no later than 2021-11-03.

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