Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology
 Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Oklahoma State University

Description:
The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University is seeking an Assistant or Associate Professor of Plant Pathology (60% Extension, 40% Research) to develop dynamic and responsive extension and research programs focused on managing diseases of row crops (e.g. soybeans, cotton, sesame, corn, peanut, and vegetables) and other commodities as needed excluding small grains. This is an eleven-month, tenure-track appointment located in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University.

The successful candidate will need to develop an externally funded, high impact, regionally and nationally recognized, integrated extension and research programs principally, but not limited to, fungal and/or bacterial diseases of row crops relevant to producers in Oklahoma. Scholarly activity directed toward publication of extension materials and peer-reviewed, original research publications, along with measurable and verifiable impact is expected. Applicants with interests in conducting both applied and basic research are preferred. The successful candidate will develop extension and research IPM programs, develop publications, presentations, and use other modern outreach venues to provide current information regarding management of plant pathogens affecting row crops. The candidate will work closely with other extension and research multi-disciplinary teams and allied agencies such as the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry to develop team approaches to address disease issues of concern for row crops in Oklahoma. The faculty member will work with local extension educators, area specialists, producers, and allied industry personnel; provide information, recommendations, and training for extension educators, and area specialists using direct and distance educational venues; and collaborate with the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory to aid in disease identification on crops of concern. Collaborative opportunities exist with a team of plant production scientists and other professionals across the University. Research laboratories in the Noble Research Center and field and greenhouse research facilities near campus and across the state are available.  Attracting and mentoring graduate students, particularly at the Ph.D. level, is expected.  

Extensive travel throughout the state. May require working before 8am or after 5pm, with periodic weekend duties. Replicated research will require exposure to pesticides, weather extremes, sun, and agronomic field equipment. Replicated, applied research will require some heavy lifting (≥ 50 lbs.) and repetitive motion.

Qualifications:
Ph.D. in plant pathology or a related field; Experience managing diseases of row crops (e.g. soybeans, cotton, sesame, corn, peanut, and vegetables) and other commodities as needed excluding small grains. Knowledge of associated cropping systems, experimental design, statistical analysis procedures, and preparation and delivery of scientific data. Able to effectively mentor graduate students and direct their various projects. Submit competitive grants and contracts to major funding agencies, commodity boards, and industry representatives. Pesticide applicator certification (OK, Category 10) upon hiring.

Preference will be given to those possessing experience with disease management in agronomic cropping systems. Two to five years experience managing diseases of row crops (e.g. soybeans, cotton, sesame, corn, peanut, and vegetables) and other commodities as needed excluding small grains. Minimum of two years working in associated cropping systems, with evidence of knowledge related to experimental design, statistical analysis, interpretation of data and preparation and delivery of scientific data. Evidence of effectively mentoring and directing graduate student projects, submission of competitive grants and contracts with major funding agencies, commodity boards, and allied industries.

Application Procedures:
Applications must be submitted online at: https://okstate.csod.com/ats/careersite/search.aspx?site=8&c=okstate (search by keyword req8649)

Applications should include the following: (1) a letter of application stating interest in this position and qualifications, (2) a curriculum vita, (3) a personal statement of extension and research interests, (4) official university transcripts noting date of the Ph.D. degree, and (5) letters from four references.

Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2021, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate accepts the position.  For questions, contact Dr. Nathan Walker, Chair, Search and Screen Committee 405-744-6830 (nathan.walker@okstate.edu)

For more information about the department go to http://epp.okstate.edu.

Oklahoma State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/E-verify employer committed to diversity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.  OSU is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans for its openings.  For more information, please visit http://eeo.okstate.edu.