Employment Opportunities

Please send job postings and updates to the Web Editor Dr. Churamani Khanal (ckhanal@clemson.edu)

Development Scientist Entomologist/Nematologist

Who are we, and what do we do?

At Corteva Agriscience, you will help us grow what's next. No matter your role, you will be part of a team that is building the future of agriculture - leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology that will better the lives of people all over the world and fuel the progress of humankind.

Corteva Agriscience is seeking a talented and enthusiastic Development Scientist Entomologist/Nematologist to join the Crop Protection Discovery and Development (CPD&D), Insect and Nematode Technology Team based at our Indianapolis research and development facility. The successful candidate will work on a team to develop insecticides/bioinsecticides and nematicides/bionematicides in crop protection. Demonstrated experience with continuous innovation in laboratory research is highly desirable. Job responsibilities include setting clear goals for hypothesis driven experiments that produce critical data for development-stage molecule advancement decisions. Work responsibilities will be balanced across product characterization for insecticides/bioinsecticides and nematicides/bionematicides. The successful candidate must be able to work in a team environment, network across scientific disciplines, and be capable of clearly communicating to a broad range of audiences.

Responsibilities:
How will you help us grow? It matters to us, and it matters to you!

• Working within a multi-disciplinary team to develop and characterize insecticides/bioinsecticides and nematicides/bionematicides.
• Developing strategies to create and validate new bioassay methods.
• Conducting experiments in laboratories, growth chambers, and greenhouses.
• Contributing to all aspects of experiments including planning, execution, analysis, and reporting.
• Generating and clearly presenting summaries of technical results.
• Developing and implementing safety practices to ensure a safe work environment.

Requirements:
What expertise have you grown? What do you bring to the table?

• Ph.D. in entomology or related field OR M.S. in entomology with 5-7 years of experience,
• Experience evaluating compounds for controlling insect and/or nematode pests (experience in both disciplines is desired but not required).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written).
• Self-motivated, organized research scientist, who enjoys working in project teams, delivering project milestones, and supporting company objectives.
• Strong record of accomplishment that delivered superior results

Preferred Qualifications:

• Industry experience
• Familiarity with agricultural chemistry or toxicology.
• Experience leading small teams to achieve research goals.
• Bioassay development, experience with high throughput assays or laboratory automation.

Benefits:
Let's peek at how you can grow your wellbeing, health, and future at Corteva!

• Strike a better work-life balance with robust time off benefits including paid maternity, paternal and family illness leave
• Prepare for your future with our competitive retirement savings plan, tuition reimbursement program, and more
• Enjoy access to health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
• And much, much more!

Ph.D. position at Purdue University

The Lei Zhang lab at Purdue University (https://ag.purdue.edu/btny/Pages/Profile.aspx?strAlias=leizhang&intDirDeptID=10; publications: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=faYquL8AAAAJ&hl=en) is seeking highly motivated applicants for graduate study at PhD level starting in the spring of 2023. The research assistantship of a PhD student provides stipend of $24,565/year and tuition waiver. Students with molecular biology background are encouraged to apply. English proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS) is required for non-native English-speaking international applicants.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are microscopic soil-borne roundworms, they infect and damage plant roots causing annual crop losses valued at $80-$118 billion worldwide. The Zhang lab is aimed to enhance understanding of plant-nematode interactions and plant resistance to nematodes at molecular, organismal and population levels using a diverse array of approaches. Research results have been published on prestigious journals, including Nature Plants, PLOS Pathogens, Molecular Plant Pathology, Plant Disease.

Prior research experience in plant-parasitic nematodes is NOT required for application. The successful applicant will have opportunities to be trained and work on (1) basic research to study molecular plant-nematode interactions and mechanism of nematode biology using nextgeneration sequencing (NGS), gene editing, RNAi and protein-protein interactions techniques; or (2) applied project to develop beneficial fungi and bacteria as biological agents for nematode control in soybean.

How to apply: Interested students are asked to e-mail directly to Dr. Lei Zhang (leizhang@purdue.edu) the following documents: Resume, transcripts. The subject of the email should be “Research assistantship spring 2023”. Screening of applications will begin on May 2, 2022 and will continue until the position has been filled.

The College of Agriculture at Purdue University is one of the world’s leading colleges of agricultural, food, life, and natural resource sciences and ranked sixth in the US in the 2019 QS World University Rankings.

Plant Nematology Lab Manager at the University of Georgia

POSITION TITLE AND DESCRIPTION: The Departments of Plant Pathology and Crop & Soil Sciences in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia (UGA) seek to fill a Plant Nematology Lab Manager position. This is a full-time position located at the Center for Applied Genetic Technologies on the Athens campus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Requires at least a baccalaureate degree in the plant sciences, plant pathology, plant breeding, crop and soil science, or a related field. A MS or PhD degree or 3-5 years of experience in nematology, crop pest and soil management, or a closely related field preferred. Required soft skills include effective oral and written communication, evidence of or strong potential for managerial responsibilities, demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, and meticulous organizational and record-keeping abilities.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Incumbent will be responsible for managing daily research operations of the Plant Nematology Lab & Greenhouses (https://site.caes.uga.edu/mitchumlab/). The specific responsibilities of the Plant Nematology Lab manager include, but are not limited to: conduct high-throughput nematode resistance phenotype screening to support soybean breeding efforts including planting and growing soybean in the greenhouse, preparation and application of nematode inoculum to soybean entries, data collection and entry, and data analysis and interpretation; maintain pure cultures of plant-parasitic nematodes and quantitative assessment of nematode-resistance phenotypes as appropriate for each genus and species of nematode; conduct process improvements to improve the efficiency of nematode resistance evaluation and data quality; order lab supplies; water plants in greenhouse; provide support to graduate student and postdoc projects; train and supervise undergraduate student workers for lab activities as needed; maintain compliance with lab safety and permit regulations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND/OR COMPETENCIES: Knowledge of plant-parasitic nematodes, soils, managing plants in a greenhouse, basic microscopic identification of nematode species, maintaining pure cultures of plant-parasitic nematodes in the greenhouse, preparation of nematode inoculum for use in phenotype screening, evaluation of host resistance to nematodes. Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment without close supervision.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Mix large quantities of soil for use in the screening program, pick up and move 40 lb buckets/bags of potting media/soil, work at sinks for extended periods of time while rinsing roots, and enumerate microscopic parasites looking through a microscope. Some work will be conducted in the greenhouse where conditions may be hot and humid.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE: Independently manages student and temporary workers as needed to maintain the Plant Nematology Lab & Greenhouses.

POSITION AVAILABLE: Immediately. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SALARY: $40,000-$56,000. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. Melissa Mitchum, (melissa.mitchum@uga.edu). Application materials can be sent by email. Please include ‘Plant Nematology Lab Manager Position’ in the subject line and attach i) cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience relative to the responsibilities of the position, including career goals, ii) curriculum vitae, iii) undergraduate or graduate-level academic transcripts, iv) names and contact information of three professional references. Selected applicants will be required to submit a background investigation demonstrating eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA: The University of Georgia, a land-grant and sea-grant university with statewide commitments and responsibilities is the state’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 16 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA was founded in 1785 by the Georgia General Assembly as the first state-chartered University in the country. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 9,900 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

Assistant/Associate Professor of MPMI at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is seeking a Molecular Plant-Microbial Interactions Pathologist at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor.  This 9-month (academic year), tenure-leading appointment will lead an integrated research and teaching program that meets the needs of agricultural producers in Nebraska, the US, and globally, and connects with regional and national crop pathology programs and colleagues with an emphasis on understanding molecular microbial-host plant interactions, where “microbe” indicates bacterial, fungal, or oomycete pathogen(s). The apportionment for this position is 80% research and 20% teaching and is located in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Position responsibilities include, but are not limited to, maintaining a high impact, externally supported research program that may focus on one or more of the following areas to improve our understanding of (i) how microbial pathogens attack plants to cause disease, (ii) how the plant host and/ or microbiome responds to pathogen attack, (iii) how the pathogen/symbiont, host plant and host microbiome communicate to modulate pathogenesis/plant health and plant immunity, and (iv) how molecular microbe-plant interactions are affected by climate change. 

Contributions to the teaching mission will include team teaching core courses for the Plant Pathology graduate program and student recruiting, advising, and mentoring. As the faculty member’s research program becomes established, this will be expanded to the development of a course to support the graduate program in the area of bacteriology or mycology depending on the area of scientific expertise.

A Ph.D. in plant pathology or a related field with a specialization in plant pathology is required.

Preference will be given to applicants with a demonstrated commitment to innovative thinking and leading a team; teaching and course development experience and student mentoring experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate level; a strong publication record in internationally recognized journals (or evidence that this is likely to be the case in the near future) and manuscript writing experience; and the potential to establish a strong externally funded research program. 

Recognizing that diversity within a context of inclusivity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and Department of Plant Pathology are committed to creating learning, research, extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of human diversity. We actively encourage applications from and nominations of individuals from underrepresented groups. 

Review of applications will begin April 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. To view details of the position and create an application, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_220036. Click “Apply to this job” and complete the information form. Attach 1) a letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job and anticipated contributions; 2) your curriculum vitae; 3) contact information for three professional references; 4) a statement describing your research and teaching experience and direction and how you will integrate research into your teaching program (5 page maximum); and 5) a statement of your experience contributing to inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum - see https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement). Please note, the statements (items 4 and 5) will need to be combined into one document.

As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination. 

Professor and Chair at the University of Florida

Title: Professor and Chair

Location: Entomology and Nematology Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA

Salary: Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience

Review Date: For full consideration, candidates should apply and submit additional materials by April 15, 2022. The position will remain open until a viable applicant pool is determined.

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is committed to creating an environment that affirms diversity across a variety of dimensions, including ability, class, ethnicity, race, gender identity and expression. We particularly welcome applicants who can contribute to such an environment through their scholarship, teaching, mentoring, and professional service. We strongly encourage historically underrepresented groups to apply.

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF .

Duties and Responsibilities

The chair of the department provides: (1) vision, support, and coordination in planning, developing and implementing departmental programs in teaching, research, and extension in accord with the Land Grant Mission; (2) leadership in recruiting and fostering academic growth and professional development of faculty, staff, and students; (3) administration of the department’s human and financial resources; and (4) promotion of external funding opportunities.  The chair administers state, national, and international programs of the department. The chair fosters shared governance, as outlined in the department by-laws, evaluates faculty and staff performance, and encourages the proactive development of strategic programs.  The chair represents departmental and faculty interests with administrators, other departments and units, outside agencies, individuals and groups in natural resources, industry, and communities.  The chair collaborates with the Vice President, Deans, Associate and Assistant Deans, other IFAS Chairs and Research and Education Center Directors, and other administrators in providing leadership for delivering integrated programs to meet the needs of students, Florida Agriculture, Citizens of the state of Florida, Extension clientele, research sponsors, and other stakeholders.

Qualifications:  The chair must have

• An earned Doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in Entomology, Nematology, Biological Sciences or a related discipline
• A record of outstanding leadership, management, scholarly achievement and professional activities related to teaching, research, extension, and/or industry that will qualify the individual to be a tenured full professor in the Department
• Ability to direct an academic department engaged in teaching, research, and extension activities at a major Land-Grant university with faculty located throughout the state
• Demonstrated ability to direct interdisciplinary, grant-funded fundamental science and applied research
• Previous experience leading and managing multidisciplinary programs
• Effective administrative leadership and managerial skills in: defining organizational objectives; developing strategic approaches to planning; managing human, fiscal, and physical resources; motivating people and developing effective teams; pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities; generating and managing grant funds in support of teaching, research, and extension; demonstrated experience in actively fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive departmental atmosphere; facilitating mentoring and retention of new faculty; and securing private funds
• Strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate student recruitment and retention for all academic programs in Entomology and Nematology
• Demonstrated ability to interact well with students, faculty, staff, administrators within the university, and external stakeholders at the state, federal, and international levels
• Evidence of established and effective leadership in outreach to industry and engagement with diverse groups
• Commitment to shared governance and fostering strong collaborations among state faculty located on the main campus and at the IFAS Research and Education Centers and to continued professional development for self, and faculty and staff
• Commitment to supporting faculty who have international programs in teaching, research, and extension
• Strong support and understanding of the mission of a Land Grant university

Background Information

The Department of Entomology and Nematology (http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/) has diverse teaching, research, and extension programs with 36 faculty members located on main campus in Gainesville and 41 faculty located at 11 Research and Education Centers (RECs) throughout the state.  With such a large and diverse faculty, the Department ranks as one of the very best in the world and excels in each of its mission areas – teaching, research (basic and applied), and extension. 

The University of Florida (http://www.ufl.edu) is a top 5 public university and a Land-Grant, Sea-Grant, and Space-Grant institution, encompassing virtually all academic and professional disciplines, with an enrollment of more than 56,000 students.  UF is a member of The Association of American Universities.  The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (http://ifas.ufl.edu) includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (http://cals.ufl.edu), the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station (http://research.ifas.ufl.edu), the Florida Cooperative Extension Service (http://extension.ifas.ufl.edu), the College of Veterinary Medicine (http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu), the Florida Sea Grant program (http://www.flseagrant.org/ ), and encompasses 16 on-campus academic departments and schools, 12 RECs located throughout the state, 6 Research sites/demonstration units administered by RECs or academic departments, and Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices in all 67 counties (counties operate and maintain).  The School of Natural Resources and Environment is an interdisciplinary unit housed in IFAS and managed by several colleges on campus.  UF/IFAS employs nearly 4,500 people, which includes approximately 990 salaried faculty and 1,400 permanent support personnel located in Gainesville and throughout the state. IFAS, one of the nation’s largest agricultural and natural resources research and education organizations, is administered by a Vice President and four deans: the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Dean for Extension and Director of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the Dean for Research and Director of the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, and the Dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine.  UF/IFAS also engages in cooperative work with Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.

The University of Florida is located in Gainesville, which is often recognized as one of Florida's most livable cities and one of the best college towns in America. Located in the heart of beautiful North Central Florida, Gainesville maintains a small-town feel, but offers many amenities found in much larger metro areas as well as access to many natural areas for outdoor recreation including state parks, rivers, springs, and access to the beach within a short drive. With an expanding downtown, a strong cultural arts following and a wide variety of shops and restaurants, world class medical care facilities and low cost of living, Gainesville and Alachua County is one of the best places to work, live and play.

Employment Conditions: Review of application materials will begin on or around April 15, 2022, and will continue until a viable applicant pool is determined. This position is available July 1, 2022, and will be filled as soon thereafter as an acceptable applicant is available.

Applications: Individuals wishing to apply must go online to https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/520377 and submit:

1. Letter of application that states applicant’s interest in the position, qualifications relative to the credentials listed above, previous professional responsibilities and achievements, administrative and management philosophy, a statement on the candidate’s vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how these relate to the chairs’ position. The letter should include the applicant’s general strategy for building and sustaining this department
2. Complete vita (which includes a statement of current position and responsibilities)
3. Names and contact information of three individuals who are knowledgeable about the applicant’s qualifications for this position

Contact Information and Nomination Submission

Please refer to Requisition # 520377 and forward all nominations to:

Dr. Eric Hellgren

Chair, Search and Screen Committee

University of Florida

Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

115 Newins-Ziegler Hall

Gainesville, FL 32611

Telephone: 352-846-0552

Electronic Mail: hellgren@ufl.edu

Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered “official” if a designation of “Issued to Student” is visible.  Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws.

The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive faculty and staff. The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a diversity of cultural events, restaurants, year-round outdoor recreational activities, and social opportunities.

Assistant/Associate Professor of Nematology at the University of Arkansas

12-month, tenure track faculty position (80% research / 20% teaching) located in Fayetteville, AR.

The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville invites applications to fill a faculty position with an emphasis on translational research in nematology. The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville is a land-grant institution and the flagship of the University of Arkansas System.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate is expected to develop a robust, extramurally funded research program focusing on the development of holistic, integrated disease management strategies of nematode-borne diseases. Preferred areas of research specialization include, but are not limited to, epidemiology, ecology, genetic resistance, host-pathogen interactions, nematode management, bigdata analytics and nematodes important to Arkansas agriculture. The candidate will demonstrate excellence in grantsmanship, report research results in peer-reviewed publications, present research at national and regional meetings. The candidate will be expected to teach graduate-level nematology and other undergraduate and graduate courses. The candidate also will mentor graduate students, provide service to the department, college, university and state, and collaborate effectively with departmental research and extension faculty, and colleagues in related disciplines.

Preferred applicants will have experience in one or more aspects of nematode biology such as the genetics and physiology of plant-nematode interactions, gene characterization, nematode anatomy, morphology, systematics, ecology, and management practices. The incumbent will contribute to research and management of nematode-borne problems in agronomic crops of importance to Arkansas agriculture. However, research specialization is not limited to a specific commodity.

Qualifications: A Ph.D. or postdoctoral experience in nematology or related discipline is required. Postdoctoral or previous faculty experience in a land-grant institution is strongly preferred. Strong communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to conduct independent and collaborative research are required. Preference will be given to candidates with a demonstrated ability to work effectively across disciplines in plant pathology. Female and minority candidates are encouraged to apply. The position is at the University of Arkansas main campus in Fayetteville, which consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. (https://realestate.usnews.com/places/arkansas/fayetteville)

All interested candidates must submit an application online at https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UASYS/details/Assistant-or-Associate-Professor---PlantPathology--Nematology_R0009020 and include: 1) a statement of research interests; 2) a statement of teaching philosophy and interests; 3) curriculum vitae; and; 4) names and addresses of three professional references.

Applications received by March 12th, 2022 are assured full consideration. Potential candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. John Rupe (jrupe@uark.edu) with questions.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. All applicants are subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act and persons hired must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States.

Post-doctoral position at UC Riverside

The Department of Botany and Plant Sciences at the University of California, Riverside, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position to conduct research under the supervision of Dr. Philippe Rolshausen. The purpose of this position is to screen citrus hybrid rootstocks and assess resistance levels against Phytophthora and nematodes.

The selected candidate will be based at the University of California in Riverside and will work in close collaboration with the University of Florida and the USDA-ARS. The selected candidate will travel to Florida to evaluate under field conditions the resistance levels of rootstocks from the USDA germplasm collection against endemic soilborne pathogens populations using molecular detection tools. Pathogens of interest include the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans and the sting nematode Belonolaimus longicaudatus as well as Phytophthora palmivora and P. nicotaniae. In addition, the selected candidate will evaluate under greenhouse conditions at UC Riverside the performance of a selection of rootstock seedlings against Tylenchulus semipenetrans, Phytophthora citrophthora and P. nicotianae using established bioassays and molecular detection tools. The selected candidate will be responsible for leading the research project, writing reports and publications and mentoring students.

Required qualifications for this position include a Ph.D. degree in the field of Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related disciplines. Experience working with Phytophthora and/or nematodes is required, with training in molecular biology techniques (nucleic acid extraction, qPCR). Experience working with citrus or other woody perennial tree crops would be considered an asset but is not required. Applicants must be able to work under hot greenhouse and field conditions. Applicants must demonstrate good communication skills with a solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals and scientific presentations.

UCR is a world-class research University with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

University of California COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy: As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. For new University of California employees, the applicable deadline is eight weeks after their first date of employment.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae including a publication list and the names and contact information of three professional references. Review of applications will start on March 1^st, 2022 and will proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications by the above date to Dr. Rolshausen philrols@ucr.edu.

Ph.D. Position in Biopesticide Development at University of Idaho 

Department of Soil and Water Systems at the University of Idaho is looking for a Ph.D. student to join our program at the University of Idaho (Moscow, ID, USA) to work on the development of biopesticides. This cross-collaborative highly interdisciplinary project is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture.

The successful candidate is expected to hold a B.S. or M.S. degree related to the proposed topics of this study, preferably in natural products, agricultural/biological engineering, biochemistry, or analytical chemistry.

Expected start date is August 2022 or early.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A full application to the Graduate School(https://www.uidaho.edu/admissions/graduate) at the University of Idaho will be required for an official offer to be made.

To apply, please send 1) a cover letter stating your interest, experience and knowledge of sustainable agriculture, natural compounds chemistry, and extraction process; 2) resume/CV; 3) unofficial transcripts; 4) contact information of two professional references by email as single PDF file to Dr. Inna Popova (ipopova@uidaho.edu).

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

For applicants who attended school outside of the U.S., an English language proficiency test is required. For more information related to international student hiring, see website https://www.uidaho.edu/admissions/international.

Ph.D. Position at Michigan State University

Developing Integrated Management Practices and Evaluating Impacts of the Hop Cyst Nematode, Heterodera humuli, an Aggressive Pest of Hop (Humulus lupulus) 

Location: Applied Nematology Laboratory, Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, E. Lansing, Michigan

Contact: Marisol Quintanilla, Ph.D., Email: marisol@msu.edu, Office phone: 517-884-2058, Cell phone: 517-881-3740 

Background: The Hop Cyst Nematode (HCN), Heterodera humuli, is a threat to United States hop production, which is currently the top producer of hops worldwide. Prior studies have found that the hop cyst nematode causes severe plant stress, nutritional deficiencies, and mechanical injury leaving the plant susceptible to secondary infections. Our team’s recent preliminary findings indicate that the hop cyst nematode is becoming or has become widespread throughout the nation’s top-producing regions and is posing a risk to yield. Currently, there are no known effective forms of management for hop growers with hop cyst nematode, so positive samples leave growers with limited options. The key for preventing this aggressive pest of hop production from hindering yield and corresponding economic loss is to determine distribution within key regions, develop effective avoidance/mitigation strategies, and ensure that this information is widely- and easily- accessible to American hop growers. A combination of greenhouse and field investigations, chemical and biologically based nematicides, as well as other alternative strategies, will be evaluated for their effects on hop cyst nematode populations, soil health, and crop yield. The successful applicant will be required to submit an application the Graduate School and be accepted into our graduate program. 

Requirements: We are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student with a strong interest in investigating plant-parasitic nematode interactions in perennial systems. Applicants should possess a Master’s of Science in Nematology, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Horticulture, or a related discipline. Applicant should have demonstrable skills in several of the following areas: 

• Experimental field research and design (e.g. pest management, production agriculture)
• Plant-parasitic and beneficial nematode identification
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Powerpoint
• Data analysis (e.g. SAS, R)
• Scientific reporting to agro-industry and/or peer-reviewed publications in English
• Communicating scientific data with an audience 

Candidates must be capable of carrying 40 pounds, possess a valid driver’s license, and be comfortable driving truck to and from field sites and greenhouses (i.e. Ford F-150, F-350). Candidates should also be comfortable using an inverted microscope for several hours. A background in basic molecular work (e.g. conventional PCR) is encouraged, but not required. 

The candidate is expected to work closely with Michigan State University Extension and grower-collaborators. This position will be located in the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University. GRE scores are not required. International students are required to fulfill MSU’s English language requirements (https://admissions.msu.edu/apply/international/language-requirements). 

Salary and Conditions: The assistantship includes a competitive stipend, tuition waiver, and health coverage. Start date: Summer semester 2022. The planned duration of this project is three years. Michigan State University is an equal opportunity employer. 

Applications: For further information and/or to apply, please send a cover letter, a short summary of research interests, a current C.V., transcripts, and a writing sample to Marisol Quintanilla at marisol@msu.edu.  Applications will be accepted until February 1, 2022. The successful applicant will also be required to apply to Michigan State University’s Graduate School.

Assistant Professor of Agricultural Nematology at University of California, Davis

As part of UC Davis’ commitment to hire leading research faculty with an outstanding commitment to teaching, research and service that will promote the success of historically underrepresented and marginalized student communities and address the needs of our increasingly diverse state and student population, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, at the University of California  announces an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Nematology faculty position; 9-month in the Department of Entomology and Nematology. 

Applications are encouraged from candidates with a strong background in any current or emerging area that will fit within our department’s disciplinary focus in agricultural nematology, defined broadly (see Responsibilities).  

As one of the country’s leading R1 institutions, UC Davis seeks candidates with exceptional potential for research, teaching, and inclusive excellence. In addition, the successful candidate will demonstrate an understanding of the barriers preventing full participation of members from historically underrepresented and marginalized student communities in higher education, such as (but not limited to) women, underrepresented minorities, individuals self-identifying as LGBTQIA+, veterans, individuals with disabilities, economically disadvantaged groups, first-generation, undocumented students, or students with any intersections in between. Successful candidates will help advance UC Davis’ strategic goal of improving access and building an inclusive community for all marginalized populations. The successful candidate also will have an accomplished track record (calibrated to career stage) of teaching, research, or service activities addressing the needs of underrepresented minorities, and a clearly articulated vision of how their work at UC Davis will continue to contribute to the University’s mission of serving the needs of our diverse state and student population. Applicants’ track record of engagement and activity related to diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion as well as their plans for future engagement will be a significant part of the overall evaluation of the candidate’s qualifications for a faculty appointment. 

This is an academic year (9-month), Assistant Professor tenure-track position with teaching, research, outreach/engagement and service responsibilities and includes the expectation that the appointee will conduct mission-oriented research and outreach/engagement of relevance to the California Agricultural Experiment Station (https://caes.ucdavis.edu/research/aes).

Responsibilities:The Department of Entomology and Nematology is seeking applicants that focus on agricultural nematology.The appointee is expected to establish a competitively funded research program in nematology to address critical or emerging issues in the field. We define agricultural nematology in the broadest sense. Thus, the successful candidate could conduct research in many areas, including but not limited to any of the following: population and/or community ecology of soil nematodes; response of nematode communities to changing climate or land use; chemical ecology of nematode-plant interactions; interactions of nematodes with beneficial and pathogenic soil microbes, invasion biology of plant-parasitic nematodes, nematode control through host plant resistance, cultural practices, biological, or chemical control; nematode sampling and diagnostics, evolution of nematode resistance to control measures; behavior of plant-parasitic nematodes; and biology and application of entomopathogenic nematodes in control of agricultural pests. The appointee will be responsible for teaching or co-teaching classes that could include an introductory course in nematology (NEM 110), an upper level undergraduate course on biology, ecology and management of plant and soil nematodes, a general course in animal biology (ABI 50A, 50B or 50C) and a graduate level course in soil ecology. The appointee will mentor graduate students and contribute to undergraduate advising. Participation in and development of public outreach and/or community engagement programs, and performance of departmental and university service is expected. 

This recruitment is conducted at the assistant rank. The resulting hire will be at the assistant rank, regardless of the proposed appointee's qualifications.

Qualifications: Ph.D. or equivalent degree in nematology, entomology, or related fields of biological or environmental science at the time of appointment. Post-doctoral experience is preferred. Evidence of research excellence is expected. The candidate should have the ability to develop and instruct undergraduate and graduate courses and the ability to develop and conduct extramurally funded research.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Applications:Application materials must be submitted via the following website:  https://recruit.ucdavis.edu. The position will remain open until filled. To ensure consideration, applications should be received by February 15, 2022.

Required application materials include: 1) curriculum vitae including publication list, 2) up to three publications, 3) transcripts if the applicant is within five years of Ph.D. degree, 4) statement of research accomplishments, 5) statement of teaching accomplishments and philosophy, 6) statement of future research plans, 7) Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and 8) the names, addresses, including e-mail, of four professional references and 9) An Authorization to Release Information form. Additional inquiries should be directed to Dr. Becky Westerdahl (bbwesterdahl@ucdavis.edu).

UC Davis is an affirmative action/equal employment opportunity employer and is dedicated to recruiting a diverse faculty community. We welcome all qualified applicants to apply, including women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Assistant or associate professor at University of Georgia

POSITION TITLE AND DESCRIPTION: The Department of Plant Pathology in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia (UGA) seeks an Assistant or Associate Professor in the area of Plant Nematology with a 75% research and 25% Extension appointment. This is an academic-year (9-month) tenure-track position located at the Tifton Campus in the heart of Georgia’s $6.5 billion crop industry.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will develop a vigorous, innovative, nationally recognized, and competitively funded research and Extension education program with the priority to mitigate diseases caused by plant-parasitic nematodes in economically important crops in the southeastern U.S., with an initial focus on cotton and specialty crops. The incumbent is expected to provide leadership and collaborate with scientists in the department, in UGA commodity teams, at USDA-ARS, and in industry to develop a productive research program using translational and applied approaches. Extension efforts will focus on outreach through publications to the producer community, providing research-based information and support to Extension specialists, participating in agent trainings, and speaking as requested at producer conferences or meetings. There is an expectation of excellence in grantsmanship, timely communication of research findings via peer-reviewed journal articles and Extension publications, and active participation in the training and mentoring of graduate students and postdocs.

QUALIFICATIONS: The candidate must have a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or a closely related area. The hiring rank will be determined based on the successful candidate’s prior experience and track record. Please see the requirements for Assistant and Associate Professors in the Unit Criteria for Promotion and Tenure for the Department of Plant Pathology as well as the UGA Guidelines for Appointment, Promotion and Tenure. To be eligible for tenure upon appointment, candidates must be appointed as an Associate Professor, have been tenured at a prior institution, and bring a demonstrably national reputation to the institution. Candidates must be approved for tenure upon appointment before hire.

POSITION AVAILABLE: 1 August 2022. Applications received by 21 February 2022 are assured full consideration; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SALARY: Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. Melissa Mitchum, Chair of the Search Committee (melissa.mitchum@uga.edu). Applications by members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged. All application materials must be submitted via the university’s faculty job portal at https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/233642 Materials to be uploaded include i) cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience relative to the responsibilities of the position, ii) curriculum vitae, iii) graduate-level academic transcripts, iv) statement of research interests, v) statement of Extension philosophy and experience, and vi) names and contact information of four professional references. Selected applicants will be required to submit a background investigation demonstrating eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA: The University of Georgia, a land-grant and sea-grant university with statewide commitments and responsibilities is the state’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 16 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA was founded in 1785 by the Georgia General Assembly as the first state-chartered University in the country. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 9,900 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

Tifton is a friendly city with a population of approximately 20,000 located along I-75 in southcentral Georgia. The city is situated in the heart of one of the leading and most dynamic agricultural areas of the Southeast. UGA's Tifton Campus is home to approximately 85 UGA faculty and USDA-ARS scientists plus associated graduate students, postdocs, and support staff conducting innovative and team-based research and extension to improve production agriculture in Georgia, the nation, and the world.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

Graduate Assistantship at Iowa State University

A graduate assistantship, for a Ph.D. candidate, is available in the Department of Entomology at Iowa State University. Research work will focus on the use of cover crops and entomopathogenic nematodes to enhance management of key insect pests in corn. This assistantship will cover tuition, stipend and health insurance. Iowa State University is widely recognized for excellence in the area of agricultural research, and graduates from the Department of Entomology have career opportunities in academia, government and industry. Iowa State University is located in Ames, which is ranked among the best cities to live in the United States. To learn more about the Department of Entomology, visit http://www.ent.iastate.edu/. If you are interested in this assistantship, please contact Aaron Gassmann (aaronjg@iastate.edu).

Graduate Assistantship offered at Clemson University

Position: The Turfgrass Pathology and Nematology program within the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at Clemson University is looking for a Ph.D. student to study root infecting pests in turfgrass systems. The graduate student will become familiar with aspects of plant pathology along practices that enhance soil microbial health to promote turfgrass survival. This position will offer hands-on experience in emerging tools for integrated pest management in the laboratory, controlled growth facilities, and field settings. The Pee Dee region offers broad exposure to plant biotic and abiotic issues and members of the program will have ample opportunity to present research findings at local, regional, and national meetings. 

Location: Pee Dee Research and Education Center, Florence, SC

Background: US Citizens from under-represented minority groups with M.S. degree from an accredited university, preferably with experience in agriculture and/or life sciences. Previous education and/or work experience with turfgrass, plant pathology, plant physiology, weed science, or soil science is desirable.

Stipend: A competitive stipend is available to support graduate student living, tuition, and supplies.

Start-date: August 2022

Contact: For more info, contact Dr. Joseph Roberts at jar7@clemson.edu. Please email your current curriculum vitae, research interest, relevant coursework, GRE scores, and contact information for 3 references

Field Agronomist II

Field Agronomist II position is available at Bayer. For more information, please visit the website https://jobs.bayer.com/job/Residence-Based-Field-Agronomist-II-Cali/714343901/?locale=en_US

Nematologist Scientist I 

Nematologist Scientist I position is open in biologics division at Bayer. For more information, please visit the website https://jobs.bayer.com/job/West-Sacramento-Nematologist-Scientist-I-Cali/709896201/?locale=en_US

R&D Scientist - Turf and Ornamental 

Syngenta is looking for a scientist to join the SPS team in Vero Beach. Plant pathologist or entomologist are preferred, but candidates nematology and weed backgrounds will also be considered for this position. Experience with turf, greenhouse, or ornamentals desired. For more information, please visit the website https://www.syngenta.com/en/job/en/18032685/external/rd-scientist-turf-and-ornamental

Post-doctoral Associate Position at University of Arkansas 

Location: Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR 

The Plant-Herbivore Interactions Laboratory (PI Fiona Goggin: https://enpl.uark.edu/people/faculty/uid/fgoggin/name/Fiona+Goggin/) is seeking a post-doctoral research associate to study the influence of plant elicitor peptides and beneficial rhizobacteria on 1) infection by nematodes and other soil-borne diseases of soybean; 2) plant growth and productivity; and 3) the root-associated microbiome.

Job Summary: This is a 12-month, full-time appointment, with renewal subject to satisfactory performance and continued funding. Job responsibilities may include conducting laboratory, greenhouse, and microplot bioassays to measure infection by root knot nematodes and soybean cyst nematodes; conducting laboratory and greenhouse assays to measure infection by Pythium, Fusarium, and other soil-borne diseases; phenotyping yield, photosynthetic activity, and above- and below-ground plant growth; measuring gene expression and other markers of plant defense signaling; and assisting with analysis of MiSeq data for targeted metagenomics to assess root microbial diversity and function. This job is housed in the University of Arkansas Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology (in the University of Arkansas Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology (https://enpl.uark.edu/about/index.php).

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements: A Ph.D. in plant pathology or a related field is required, as well as strong written and oral communication skills, experience in statistical analysis, and prior experience working independently to design, conduct, and analyze experiments.

Preferred Experience: Prior experience in plant nematology is highly desirable, as well as experience in computational data analysis (R and other languages).  Other relevant skills and expertise include plant microbiology, metagenomics, root phenotyping, processing and analysis of high-throughput DNA sequencing data, and RT-qPCR.   

Application Instructions: Applicants can apply online at https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS/job/Fayetteville/Post-Doctoral-Fellow_R0001733

Required Documents to Apply: Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, and List of three Profesional References (name, email, business title)

Questions:

For specific questions about the requirements of this position, please contact Dr. Fiona Goggin at fgoggin@uark.edu.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process and require reasonable accommodations, please contact the Division's Office of Inclusion, Access, and Compliance at bbatiste@uaex.edu.

For general application assistance, please contact Human Resources at 501-671-2219 or 479-502-9820.

Other Comments: The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture commits itself to policies of affirmative action and diversity with respect to both employment opportunities and program participation.  The Division complies with these policies not merely because of legal requirements, but because we believe that such practices are basic to human dignity.  As such, the Division welcomes all applicants to apply without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.  Candidates must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.  All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.