President

The Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI or “the Institute”) seeks an accomplished scientist and visionary leader to serve as the next President. This individual will join a highly respected organization and an outstanding team of scientists and staff to advance the mission of scientific discovery in biology and the application of science to improve agriculture, protect the environment, and enhance human health.

As an independent research institute, BTI is a nimble organization, allying with scientists and organizations around the world to pursue creative and cutting-edge plant science research that spans genomics, bioinformatics, chemical biology, systems biology, and cell biology. BTI is situated on the campus of Cornell University and maintains a close and collaborative relationship with scholars at Cornell, creating a larger community dedicated to science with opportunities for graduate research and interdisciplinary research collaborations. All BTI faculty are also adjunct faculty at Cornell in areas such as plant pathology, plant biology, entomology, plant breeding and genetics, molecular biology and genetics, and chemistry and chemical biology. BTI’s 131-member faculty and staff are at the forefront of science, and throughout its history, it has made a profound impact on societal issues ranging from food supplies to improvements in agriculture and human health. The vibrant community of postdoctoral associates, graduate students, research assistants, and other lab personnel add to the rich culture of BTI, and trainees go on to successful careers in academia and the public and private sector.

As BTI looks to the future, the next President will have the opportunity to extend its prominence in the field and grow its impact. BTI seeks a leader who can work across the organization to develop a shared vision that embraces the rapid changes in the field. The President will continue to empower scientists to advance fundamental discoveries in science while also nurturing the exciting progress in entrepreneurial ventures and the application of BTI science. As the CEO of an independent organization, this position ensures the strong financial management of BTI’s $90 million endowment and $20 million operating budget while helping to expand BTI’s fundraising. The President must set the tone and support a culture that respects and values the contributions of the staff and organization to advance a firm commitment to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusivity. This position requires an experienced scientific leader who brings credibility in the field as well as administrative skills sufficient to oversee an organization of BTI’s scale and complexity.

All inquiries, nominations, referrals, and resumes will be held in strict confidence and should be submitted electronically below.

John Muckle is leading this search with Stephanie Simon and Alexandra Lolavar.

BTI is committed to building a diverse community and encourages members who identify as underrepresented minorities to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the institute is appreciated.