Project Manager, Research Scientist

Washington State University (WSU) invites applications for a Project Manager to lead innovative research on X‑disease and its vectors in stone fruit systems. The role will design and execute laboratory and field experiments to advance understanding of X‑disease biology, ecology, and management strategies. The Project Manager will collaborate with partners at WSU, the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and other stakeholders, while supervising project staff and ensuring high‑quality research execution.

• Research:
  Design and implement laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments focused on X‑disease and its vectors; evaluate novel treatment approaches, including symbiont‑based technologies; investigate vector biology, ecology, and transmission dynamics; collect, organize, analyze, and interpret complex datasets; communicate findings through reports, peer‑reviewed publications, and stakeholder outreach; collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external partners; translate findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Supervision:
  Supervise and mentor project staff and support personnel; coordinate project activities and ensure timely completion of research objectives.
• Outreach and Extension:
  Deliver presentations to the tree fruit industry and scientific community; develop educational and extension materials for broader audiences.
• Other Duties:
  Support departmental, college, and university initiatives as needed.

• Earned M.S. in Entomology or a related field.
• Experience conducting research in tree fruit integrated pest management.
• Demonstrated ability to design experiments and collect and analyze data.
• Complete understanding of entomology and entomological procedures.
• Knowledge of commercial agriculture and commercial pest management.
• Have or be able to obtain a pesticide applicator’s license at the time of hire.
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with large groups and individuals at all work levels.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive educational and working environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers and software applications.

• Experience working on X‑disease vectors and/or codling moth.
• Experience working directly with tree fruit industry stakeholders.
• Experience giving extension presentations to the tree fruit industry.

Annual Salary: $50,000 - $55,200, commensurate with experience and qualifications. WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life, and disability insurance for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation; and optional supplemental retirement accounts.

Wests State University is an equal opportunity employer. In matters of admission, employment, housing or services, or in the educational programs or activities it operates, WSU does not discriminate or permit discrimination by any member of its community against any individual on the basis of sex, race, color, national or ethnic origin, physical disability, mental disability, sensory disability, use of a trained service animal, age, religion, creed, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, honorably discharged veteran, member of the military, or immigration or citizenship status except as authorized by federal or state law, regulation, or government contract.