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Plant Sciences Information Specialist, Purdue University Libraries

  • 1.  Plant Sciences Information Specialist, Purdue University Libraries

    Posted Mar 19, 2018 12:20 PM

    Plant Sciences Information Specialist
    Assistant or Associate Professor


    Purdue University Libraries, recognized leaders in information literacy, scholarly communication initiatives, and research data management, seek a Plant Sciences Information Specialist (PSIS) to join our faculty.  With an emphasis on teaching and scholarship, the PSIS will join a collaborative team of information professionals who participate in a well-established program of information literacy, research data management services, scholarly publishing services, and will contribute to the research and scholarship in these areas.


    The successful candidate will be the Libraries liaison to designated academic departments and research centers in the College of Agriculture, working with faculty and students to teach and to respond to trends in learning and scientific research in those disciplines.


    Responsibilities:  The Plant Sciences Information Specialist will develop and teach courses/programs to support discovery and learning; take a leading role in defining and conducting user instruction for students and faculty in the plant sciences and bioinformatics as an integral part of the Libraries’


    system-wide information and data literacy programs; establish collaborative relationships with individual research laboratory groups, departments and academic centers; evaluate and procure tools and resources that contribute to plant bioinformatics research; provide course work and consultation services in data management strategies; evaluate, select, integrate plant sciences and bioinformatics resources into the Libraries collections for optimal use and sharing; lead in data-related initiatives in the Libraries Health and Life Sciences Division, providing consultation services in developing data management strategies and plans; and, leverage library expertise in copyright, scholarly publishing, patent/trademark issues, and data curation.


    Required qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in the life sciences or two years of experience as a life sciences librarian.  Master’s degree from an ALA- accredited library school or equivalent combination of advanced degree and relevant discipline, e.g. Ph.D. in the life sciences.  Demonstrated commitment to and excellence in teaching; familiarity with trends in instructional best practices and data literacy.  Strong interest in and ability to mentor undergraduate students effectively; excellent interpersonal and communication skills; and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively. Ability to adapt to changing organizational environment. Commitment to engage in research and scholarship and potential to achieve promotion and tenure.


    Desired qualifications:  Experience teaching using active learning methods; knowledge of research data management practices.  Experience with at least one programming language, e.g. Python, R, or Matlab, to support Libraries instruction in data literacy.  For applicants who do not have the MLS degree, knowledge of information and data science principles and practices is desired.


    Salary and benefits:


    Salary commensurate with experience in the context of Purdue University’s salary structure.


    Faculty tenure-track position with a twelve-month appointment. Rank of assistant professor or associate professor.  Start-up funds in support of research are provided for computer/software/equipment, for travel/professional development, and for a half time graduate assistant for two years.


    Purdue provides a generous fringe benefit package that includes retirement benefits as well as health, disability and life insurance, 22 annual vacation days, and tuition support for employee, children, and spouse/same sex domestic partner.  Purdue University is responsive to the needs of dual career couples.


    Relocation funding will be available and discussed on a case-by-case basis.


    A background check will be required for employment in this position.


    Application process:


    To apply, please send a resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information of at least three references via email to Carole Tolley, Libraries Human Resources Coordinator, at libhr@purdue.edu.


    When applying:


    •             Place “PSIS” in the subject line of the email.


    In the cover letter:


    •             Describe your interest in plant sciences librarianship;


    •             Address the required qualifications;


    •             In keeping with Purdue Libraries commitment to advancing diversity in all areas of faculty effort, including scholarship, instruction, and engagement, the cover letter must address at least one of these areas, indicating past experiences, current interests or activities, and/or future goals to promote a climate that values diversity and inclusion.  Nominations for the position will be accepted and should be sent to libhr@purdue.edu.


    Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.  Questions may be directed to Carole Tolley at 765-494-2899 or the above email address.


    This position announcement can also be found at:  www.lib.purdue.edu/about/ employment.


    Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer.  All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.