The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University is seeking an Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology (70% Extension, 30% Research) to develop dynamic and responsive extension and research programs focused on managing diseases of horticultural crops that may include but are not limited to pecans, both greenhouse and landscape grown herbaceous and woody ornamentals, grapes, and other horticultural commodities as needed excluding turfgrass. This is an eleven-month, tenure-track appointment.
The successful candidate will need to develop externally funded, highly impactful, regionally and nationally recognized, and multi-disciplinary extension and research programs addressing the management of diseases of horticultural crops relevant to producers in Oklahoma. The ideal candidate will develop a creative program focused on managing pathogens in a manner that improves ecosystem health and addresses stakeholder needs.
We seek an innovative candidate who will implement ecological, technological, genetic, geographic, computational, and/or microbial tools to address pathogen problems with the goal of developing landscape solutions for producers and end users. Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration is essential. The successful candidate should have broad knowledge of horticultural systems, modeling of abiotic and biotic factors that consider climate change, and/or plant-microbe interactions.
Scholarly activity directed toward publication of extension materials and peer-reviewed, original research publications, along with measurable and verifiable impact is expected. Applicants with interests in conducting both applied and basic research are preferred. The successful candidate will develop extension and research IPM programs, develop extension content, presentations, and use other modern outreach venues to provide current information regarding management of plant pathogens affecting horticultural crops.
The candidate will work closely with other extension and research multi-disciplinary teams and allied agencies such as the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry to develop team approaches to address disease issues of concern for horticultural crops in Oklahoma. The faculty member will work with local Extension educators, area and state specialists using direct and distance educational venues; and collaborate with the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory to aid in disease identification of the aforementioned horticultural commodities.
Research laboratories in the Noble Research Center and field and greenhouse research facilities near campus and across the state are available. Recruitment and mentoring of graduate students is expected.
Qualifications:
A doctorate in plant pathology or allied field. Knowledge of horticultural systems, experimental design, statistical analysis procedures, and preparation and delivery of scientific data. Ability to effectively mentor graduate students and direct their various projects. The position will require the submission of competitive grants and contracts to major funding agencies, commodity boards, and industry representatives. Pesticide applicator certification (OK, Category 10) upon hiring is needed. Preference will be given to those possessing experience with disease management in horticultural crops (e.g. pecans, ornamentals, and/or fruits).
Working Conditions:
Extensive travel throughout the state will be necessary and applicants will need a valid driver’s license. The position will periodically require working before 8am or after 5pm, with occasional weekend duties. The position will require application of pesticides, exposure to weather extremes, sun, and agronomic field equipment. The position will require some heavy lifting (≥50 lbs.) and repetitive motion.
Application Procedures:
Applications must be submitted online at:
Applications should include the following: (1) a letter of application stating interest in this position and qualifications, (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) a personal statement of Extension and research interests, (4) verification of a Ph.D. degree, and (5) contact information for four references.
Review of applications will begin on November 15, 2022, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate accepts the position. For questions, contact Nathan Walker, Chair, Search and Screen Committee at nathan.walker@okstate.edu or 405-744-6830
Oklahoma State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/E-verify employer committed to diversity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. OSU is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans for its openings.