Position Summary
Titles: Specialist (Fixed Term, 12-Month Basis, 100% Time) in the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University. The positions are 50% Extension and 50% Research in the areas of 1) dry bean systems research and extension, and 2) sugarbeet systems research and extension.

Background: Michigan State University is the Pioneer Land Grant University and is a national leader in agricultural research and extension programming.

Two Specialist positions are available:

Position 1: Dry Bean Specialist- An individual is needed to develop an applied research and outreach program for the dry bean industry in Michigan. The Specialist will interact with university researchers, dry bean growers, the Michigan Bean Commission, the Michigan Bean Shippers Association, crop advisors, and end users to translate cutting edge research into on-farm productivity.

Position 2: Sugarbeet Specialist- An individual is needed to continue and further develop the existing applied research and outreach program for the Michigan sugarbeet industry. The position will be housed in Michigan's Saginaw Valley Region that is central to the sugarbeet production area of the state. This Sugarbeet Specialist will interact and work closely with the sugarbeet industry (i.e., Michigan Sugar Company), sugarbeet growers, university researchers, and agribusiness to translate cutting edge research into on-farm productivity.

Responsibilities: These two positions will work collaboratively to develop and disseminate information to the dry bean community and sugarbeet community through new or existing outlets including newsletters, web sites, social media, articles and bulletins. Outreach will include contributions to the planning and delivery of educational events (meetings and field days) related to dry bean and sugarbeet management such as the Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center Field Day, the Michigan Bean Commission Winter Conference, the Michigan/Ontario Sugarbeet Reporting Session, and the annual Bean and Beet Symposium and Trade Show. The individuals will collaborate on the applied research of important agronomic issues including the application of new technologies and cultural practices to optimize dry bean and sugarbeet productivity and profitability.

Key activities for Position 1: Dry Bean Specialist include:

• Performance evaluation of dry bean varieties
• Evaluation of end use quality attributes
• Collaborate with dry bean researchers at MSU and other institutions including the private sector

Key activities for Position 2: Sugarbeet Specialist include:

• On-farm performance evaluation of sugarbeet varieties
• Coordinate the activities of Sugarbeet Advancement and the Michigan Sugarbeet REACh program
• Collaborate with sugarbeet growers and researchers at Michigan Sugar Company, MSU, and other institutions including the private sector

The successful applicants will also work with growers to conduct on-farm research and demonstrations of important dry bean and sugarbeet production practices. The work will include seeking additional funding for research and extension projects related to dry beans and/or sugarbeets. The positions entail active participation with the Extension Field Crops Team as well as collaboration with MSUE Educators, The individuals will support research activities as principal investigator and as co-PI with funding from the Michigan Bean Commission, Michigan Sugar Company, and other funding sources. Collaboration between the Specialists and MSU researchers is essential. Extension bulletins as well as peer-reviewed publications will be published individually and in collaboration with MSU researchers.

Review of applications will begin on March 12, 2018 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants interested in either or both positions may submit a single application. All applicants will be considered for both positions.

Questions can be directed to James D. Kelly, Chair of the Dry Bean Specialist Search Committee, kellyj@msu.edu or Kurt Steinke, Chair of the Sugarbeet Specialist Search Committee ksteinke@msu.edu .

MSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities. Job applicants are considered for employment opportunities and employees are treated without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Required Degree
Masters -Crop and Soil Sciences or related field

Minimum Requirements
Qualified individuals will have an M.S. or higher degree in Crop and Soil Sciences or related field by the time of employment. Excellent oral and written communication skills are required.

Desired Qualifications
At least 3 years of experience with crop production is desirable and experience with either dry beans or sugarbeets is preferred but not required. Candidates should be familiar with delivery of research-based information using multiple approaches and possess a demonstrated ability to work effectively with other researchers, clientele groups, and growers. An understanding of how to seek additional funding and resources for research and extension projects is desirable. Basic competencies in statistical analysis and experimental design are expected. Additionally, candidates must obtain a CDL and commercial pesticide applicator certification.

Required Application Materials
Applicants should electronically submit: (1) A letter of application describing the background match with the above job description; (2) vision statement regarding goals in extension and research; (3) curriculum vita; and (4) description of the applicant's commitment to inclusion and diversity in research and outreach. Ask three referees to send letters of reference directly to: Sandie Litchfield at the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, 1066 Bogue St. Rm A286, E. Lansing, MI 48824 or by email to litchfi9@msu.edu (preferred).

Special Instructions
Review of applications will begin on March 12, 2018 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Applicants interested in either or both positions may submit a single application. All applicants will be considered for both positions. Applicants can apply for this position via the link at http://careers.msu.edu , (posting # __). Applicants should electronically submit: (1) A letter of application describing the background match with the above job description; (2) vision statement regarding goals in extension and research; (3) curriculum vita; and (4) description of the applicant's commitment to inclusion and diversity in research and outreach. Ask three referees to send letters of reference directly to: Sandie Litchfield at the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, 1066 Bogue St. Rm A286, E. Lansing, MI 48824 or by email to litchfi9@msu.edu (preferred).

Summary of Physical Demands

• Required to lift and carry up to 50 lb bags of seed and fertilizer.
• Required to operate a forktruck, tractor, and/or a top-running overhead crane.

Summary of Health Risks
Required to drive forklifts, tractors, and other farm machinery, including spraying equipment (including fertilizers and pesticides.)

Advertised: Feb 16, 2018 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:


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