"Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor (Tenure Track) & Director of the Canine Genetics Laboratory"

Hiring Department

Department of Pathobiology & Integrative Biomedical Sciences

Job Description

The Department of Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences seeks candidates for an open Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor to serve as the Director of Canine Genetics Laboratory in the College of Veterinary Medicine. This is a 12-month, tenure-track appointment.

The Canine Genetics Laboratory was established in the 1980’s to identify the molecular genetic basis of inherited disorders in dogs and to develop DNA screening tests for deleterious mutations for use in diagnosis and screening of dogs prior to breeding. Since its founding, the laboratory has identified over 70 disease-causing mutations in numerous dog breeds, and the laboratory continues to be a leader in the identification and investigation of hereditary disorders in dogs. The laboratory’s primary research focus has been on identifying mutations that result in neurologic and ophthalmologic disorders; however, the laboratory has identified mutations responsible for a number of other types of disease, including connective tissue and cardiac disorders. In addition to conducting research to identify new mutations, increase our understanding of hereditary disorders, and develop further testing methodologies; the staff of the Canine Genetics Laboratory provide quality genetic testing to serve as a reliable resource for veterinarians, owners, breeders, and other researchers.

The successful candidate will be expected to explore and elucidate shared genetic mechanisms across animal species and humans. This includes leveraging canine models to better understand a broad range of simple and complex diseases. In addition, the position offers opportunities to contribute to the emerging fields of pharmacogenomics and nutritional genomics.

The incumbent will have the following responsibilities:

• Develop and sustain an externally funded, independent research program in canine genetics, with emphasis on the following areas: Trait-allele association studies, Genomic architecture of complex traits, Drivers of genetic susceptibility to disease, Translational genomics and precision health
• Lead and direct the activities of the Canine Genetics Laboratory. Manage and supervise laboratory researchers, support staff, and students.
• Engage in collaborative research, especially with veterinary clinician scientists, to further the goals and impacts of the laboratory.
• Pursue and obtain external funding to support the mission and objectives of the laboratory.
• Regularly publish, present findings, and participate in the greater scientific discussion and community.
• Foster and build positive relationships across the College of Veterinary Medicine, the School of Medicine, the broader University of Missouri community, and across the scientific community to drive the discovery process.
• Maintain and grow a key partnership with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
• Participate in the teaching and training of students within the College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Missouri. Provide mentorship to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
• Engage in faculty, departmental, college, and university governance activities as called upon by the Department Chair or other leaders.
• Other duties as assigned.

The College of Veterinary Medicine at MU is on a mission to educate and train outstanding clinicians and scientists, generate new knowledge, engage stakeholders, and foster economic growth, all of which promote and protect the health and welfare of animals and people. Simply put, our mission is to Teach, Heal, Discover, and Serve.

The Department of Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences (PIBS) advances animal and human health through excellence in discovery, education, service and leadership. Our department brings together strengths in microbiology, physiology, neuroscience, pathology, molecular genetics, animal modeling, comparative medicine and other core biomedical sciences — uniting foundational research and clinical relevance under one collaborative academic home.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: A PhD or equivalent degree in Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biology, Pathobiology, or an equivalent field of study.

Candidates will be evaluated based upon the following criteria: Background of rigorous research in areas such as genetics, hereditary disease, genetic mutation. Expertise in canine genomics and experience with bioinformatics, whole genome sequencing, or functional genomics is essential. Experience managing and leading an academic research laboratory. Experience managing and leading a Core facility, diagnostic lab and/or fee-for-service operation. History of and ability to engage in collaborative research endeavors. Ability to meet tenure standards at the University of Missouri.

Application Materials

Interested candidates should be prepared to attach: 1. Letter stating professional interests and career goals; including research interests and objectives as well as teaching philosophy 2. Curriculum Vitae 3. Contact information for at least three professional references

Please contact Noah Hartsfield, HR Recruiter, at hartsfieldn@missouri.edu, or Dr. Elizabeth Bryda, Chair of the Search Committee at brydae@missouri.edu.