Working/Functional Title
Potato/Sugar Beet Pathology Res Asst II

Position Summary
The Potato and Sugar Beet Pathology program in Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated individual to work as a member of the pathology research program. This position will support research and extension efforts in understanding pathogen and disease issues in Michigan potato and sugar beet production systems. The individual will help develop disease control recommendations for potatoes and sugar beets through chemical and biological product evaluation trials. The individual will work as a member of a team including professors, research assistants, graduate, and undergraduate students. The position is primarily a field-based position that also includes greenhouse, laboratory, as well as analysis and writing responsibilities in the winter months. Field activities include field plot layout and design, pesticide mixing and application, operation and maintenance of farm equipment, preparing and maintaining soil and fields, and crop planting and harvesting. The individual will also be involved in research data collection, statistical analysis, and presentation of results. Additional duties include the purchasing of supplies and assisting in the procurement of research equipment. Assisting with hiring and supervising hourly employees and staff will be required.

This is an off-date position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal. Target start date is May 1, 2018.

Responsibilities

• 25% Coordinate disease control research activities in the field
• 25% Oversee and perform field-based activities
• 20% Provide support for greenhouse and laboratory plant pathology research
• 15% Equipment maintenance
• 10% Analyze data and provide written reports on disease control research
• 5% Supervise hourly employees (undergraduate students)

Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills
Knowledge equivalent to that which is normally acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Crop and Soil Sciences, or other agriculture related discipline; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in plant pathology and/or agronomy; experience in field research plot techniques and operating and maintaining a variety of field equipment, including but not limited to tractors, planters, and combines; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Appropriate Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators licenses are required within one month of hire. An F' Endorsement Commercial Driver's License is required within six months of hiring.

Desired Qualifications

• Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or related field
• Experience in growing field and vegetable crops
• Experience working with plant pathogens
• Ability to conduct or learn statistical analysis with Agricultural Research Manager (ARM), SAS, or R software programs
• Demonstrated proficiency in operating field research equipment
• Effective verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with Word, Power Point, and Excel computer programs

Required Application Materials
Cover letter; Curriculum Vitae; Names and contact information for three references

Special Instructions
Address cover letter to Dr. Jaime Willbur, Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, MSU.

Work Hours
STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date
This is an off-date position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Summary of Physical Demands
Lift and carry 50 lb bags of fertilizer, seeds, and equipment parts.

Summary of Health Risks
This position will drive university vehicles, some requiring CDL; wear respirator; spray or mix insecticides; work in noisy areas.

Bidding eligibility ends 3/27/2018 at 11:55PM

Advertised: Mar 21, 2018 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Apr 3, 2018 Eastern Daylight Time


To apply please click here!