Plant Breeding Data Analytics

Location: This position will be an in-person, on-campus appointment at the University of Minnesota campus in Saint Paul.
Desired Appointment Dates. Start: June 1, 2026

In-person This position will be an in-person, on-campus appointment at the University of Minnesota campus in Saint Paul.

The successful candidate will support agronomic plant breeding programs at the University of Minnesota, including Barley, Oat, Soybean, and Wheat, to identify and implement unified technological solutions to standardize data workflows, implement plant breeding program data management and analysis software, and contribute to training of breeding program staff on use of the new data management systems.

Job Duties:
50% Evaluate dedicated plant breeding data management and analysis software, ensuring compatibility with external R-based analysis tools and Shiny apps to maintain flexibility and implement adoption of the chosen system.

20% Audit each program to evaluate data collection, versioning, curation, storage, and analysis methods, focusing on improving 1) operational speed and accuracy; 2) the breeding parent selection process; 3) efficiency and ease of summary report generation that are routinely used in breeding advancement decisions; and 4) data security.

20% Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and be responsible for training PIs, technicians, and students on use of the plant breeding software and analytical tools.

10% Prepare manuscripts for publication and work with journal editors/reviewers for publication. Presentation development to distribute research results to the scientific community and other stakeholders

Required Qualifications: BA/BS degree plus at least six years of experience or advanced degree plus at least four years of relevant experience. Candidate must have at least one year of experience in large-scale data management.

Preferred Qualifications: Ph.D. in Plant Breeding/Genetics, Genomics, or related field, familiarity with plant breeding programs, proficiency in R and/or Python, experience with genome-wide genotyping data, and genomic selection modeling; strong communication and organizational skills

The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics, biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper Midwest and beyond. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant Sciences.

Pay Range: $97,480 - $101,350; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Priority Deadline Note: The application review will begin on 04/28/2026.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).