The Specialty Crops & Turfgrass Disease Program in the Plant Pathology Department at Kansas State University is seeking a Research Associate to work on diverse extension and applied research projects to support the Kansas horticultural industries. The position will be responsible for planning and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature searches, writing academic articles and manuscripts, writing extension materials, and developing and delivering scientific and extension presentations.
The position will also assist with coordination of an undergraduate summer internship program in research and extension. The employee will work in office, greenhouse, and field settings, including independent travel off campus. The work is highly collaborative and requires synergistic interaction with university collaborators, K-State Research and Extension agents housed in county/district offices, and growers. The employee is expected to excel in a multi-cultural setting and create an environment that fosters diversity and collegiality. The position will be reviewed annually but is expected to be funded for three years.
Specific responsibilities include:
- Conducting lab, field, and controlled environment studies
- Independent experimental design, data collection, and analysis
- Occasional independent travel to research locations within the state
- Writing and contributing to scientific manuscripts and technical research reports
- Developing and delivering extension education materials including printed publications, websites, videos, and social media posts
- Assisting with coordination of summer undergraduate internship program
- Develop and deliver academic and extension presentations
Minimum Qualifications:
- M.S. degree in Plant Pathology or related field
- Two years relevant experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD degree in Plant Pathology or related field
- Experience and demonstrated success in research related to applied plant disease management
- Experience maintaining plants and fungi used in experiments (this includes culture collection and inoculum production)
- Experience with horticultural cropping systems
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team to successfully manage projects
- Experience in statistical analysis such as SAS or R
- Experience and in outreach and/or extension, including web/digital platforms
Other Requirements:
- Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment; Please contact Dr. Megan Kennelly kennelly@ksu.edu
How to Apply:
Please submit the following documents:
- Cover letter
- CV
- Contact information for 3 references
Screening Applications Begins:
Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by 08/31/2022.
Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $47,000 – $60,000
Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.