Plant Pathologist

Description & Details

The NDSU Williston Research Extension Center (WREC) is seeking a plant pathologist to lead a research program focused on improving management strategies for crop diseases of economic importance in western North Dakota. The successful candidate will establish relationships with stakeholders, develop extramurally funded research, and focus on agronomic field research evaluating management strategies readily implemented by producers. The work will be conducted on major crops grown in western North Dakota such as spring wheat, durum, barley, field peas, chickpeas, lentils, canola, and other important regional crops.

• Secure extramural funding to conduct research addressing economically important disease problems in the region.
• Hire and supervise staff for the execution of studies.
• Lead the execution of field research, data collection, and data analysis.
• Disseminate results to farmers, crop advisors, agronomists, and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other REC and main campus scientists to support NDSU Agriculture.

• Ph.D. in plant pathology or closely related field.
• Demonstrated potential to develop a productive and high‑quality research program recognized locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Field research experience with plant diseases.
• Excellent communication skills (interpersonal, written, verbal).
• ND Driver's license or the ability to obtain one.
• ND Commercial Pesticide applicator license or the ability to obtain one.

• All minimum qualifications.
• Demonstrated ability to publish research in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated ability to secure competitive funding.
• Ability to conduct research with results that can be communicated to North Dakota growers.
• Demonstrated experience in personnel management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Record of peer‑reviewed or extension publications.
• Experience collaborating with industry, producers, or Extension personnel.
• Supervisory or mentoring experience with research staff or students.
• Experience managing research budgets or field operations.

• Experience in applied pathological research, such as crop management, pathogen evaluation, or disease/pest management.
• Demonstrated ability to collect, manage, and analyze field research data.
• Effective written and oral communication skills, including evidence of presenting research findings or extension information.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Please submit a cover letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume detailing your experience and desire to work and live in Northwestern North Dakota as a Plant Pathologist.

• 100% employer‑paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage.
• Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA.
• Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date.
• Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation.

• Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to 12.26% depending on position.

• Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays.
• Employee Assistance Program for confidential support.
• Supportive work‑life balance.

• Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year).
• 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents.

• Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long‑Term Care.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care).
• Supplemental Retirement Plans.

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off‑campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to:
Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701‑231‑7708, ndsu.eoaa.

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C.
• 23‑12‑10.

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701‑231‑8961 or ndsu.hr.