James Cook Endowed Chair in Wheat Research – Weed Scientist

*
* The Opportunity:

** We are looking to fill an integrated research and instructor position to begin
** August 1, 2026**, or as negotiated, at the WSU Pullman campus. The successful applicant will develop a nationally recognized and regionally relevant program focused on
** Integrated Weed Management in Small Grains cropping systems
** to enhance crop productivity while increasing profits and improving environmental quality.

The Associate Professor/Professor and James Cook Endowed Chair in Wheat Research Weed Scientist should research sustainable and effective weed management strategies through applied and fundamental research for weeds of significance in small grains cropping systems in the Pacific Northwest. The incumbent will develop a research program to support the growers of small grain crops. Through collaborative efforts with USDA-ARS researchers, WSU faculty, and other university scientists, the incumbent will lead the statewide effort to research weed biology and multifaceted control measures of weeds in small grains cropping systems.

The incumbent will report to the Chair of the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. In addition to pursuing an outstanding research program, the successful candidate will be expected to advise graduate students, teach courses to undergraduate and graduate students in the area of weed science.
** Responsibilities:
** This position integrates research and instruction, with the successful candidate expected to develop a nationally recognized research program in Integrated Weed Management (IWM) focused on small grains cropping systems in Washington. The research program emphases may include, but are not limited to, sustainable and integrated weed management strategies, weed biology and ecology, herbicide efficacy, precision application technologies, mechanical, and cultural weed control tactics.  

Herbicide-resistant weeds are an increasing issue in small grains cropping systems, and the selected candidate will be expected to investigate novel methods to control herbicide resistant weed species. Programs must be responsive to stakeholder needs and align with the missions of the department and CAHNRS Office of Research.

The
** Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS)
** within the
** College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resources Sciences (CAHNRS)
** at Washington State University (WSU) is seeking a motivated and problem-solving researcher and instructor to join a team of scientists and extension experts in multiple disciplines, including plant pathology, plant science, soil science, entomology, and plant breeding. The James Cook Endowed Chair in Wheat Research was created by the Washington Grain Commission to support wheat research to enhance the productivity of Washington growers.

This position is supported by a $2.1 million endowment from the Washington Grain Commission and allows researchers to gather preliminary data in support of competitive federal grants, along with addressing regional interests more rapidly. This tenure-track, associate professor or professor rank faculty position is a nine-month academic year appointment, plus two months of summer salary while serving in the endowed chair position.

The successful candidate must acquire competitive extramural funding from state, regional, and national agencies, and the agricultural industry to support a comprehensive research program. The incumbent will disseminate information by publishing in appropriate peer-reviewed journals, delivering presentations at scientific conferences and grower meetings, and using modern communication platforms. This person is expected to work collaboratively with other researchers, extension professionals, private crop consultants, the grower community, and other stakeholders.

Other duties include serving on CSS, CAHNRS, and WSU committees.
** SALARY** (
* Commensurate with experience and qualifications)***:
***
* Required Qualifications:

*** Ph.D. in weed science or a closely related field and an academic record and work experience sufficient to achieve tenure at the rank of associate professor or professor;
* Proven ability in research program leadership, including…