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 be expected to establish relationships with stakeholders in western North Dakota and develop an extramurally funded research program to address their needs, with a focus on developing strategies for reducing crop losses to disease.

The research program must have a primary emphasis on agronomic field research evaluating management strategies that can be readily implemented by producers, with work done on major crops grown in western North Dakota such as spring wheat, durum, barley, field peas, chickpeas, lentils, canola, canola, and other important crops to the region. Responsibilities will include securing extramural funding to conduct research addressing economically important disease problems in the region;

hiring and supervising staff for the execution of the studies; leading the execution of field research and associated data collection and data analysis; and disseminating results to farmers, crop advisors, agronomists and other stakeholders. Collaboration with other REC and main campus scientists is expected to support the mission of NDSU Agriculture.

Working with pesticides and chemicals is in the nature of this position. Candidate must obtain pesticide certification and wear prescribed PPE.

Work Schedule:

General business hours are 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday. Longer days may be required during peak times, such as planting and harvest.

Hiring Range:

Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations.

Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in plant pathology or closely related field.

Demonstrated potential to develop a productive and high-quality research program that will be 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 applicators license or the ability to obtain one.

Preferred Qualifications:

All minimum qualifications, plus:

Demonstrated ability to publish research in journals appropriate to the position.

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.

Core Competencies:

Experience in applied pathological research, such as crop management, pathogenic 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.

Applicant Materials

Required:

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.

Screening will begin: 3/13/26

Our commitment to caring for our employees isn't just words-it's proven. In NDSU's most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development. "My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person" and "I have the opportunities to learn and grow", were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you'll experience here.

NDSU OFFERS OUTSTANDING BENEFITS!

Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success.

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health & Wellness

* 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

Exceptional Retirement Plan

* Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position

(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.

Time Away & Support

* Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays

* Employee Assistance Program for confidential support

* Supportive work-life balance

Education Benefits That Grow With You

* Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)

* 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents

Additional Optional Benefits

* Supplemental Life, Dental,…