Position Summary

The Vegetable and Ornamental Pathology program in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated individual to investigate the etiology, epidemiology, population genetics, and mitigation measures of fungal and oomycete pathogens causing disease of vegetables and greenhouse ornamentals. This position will support research and extension efforts in understanding pathogen and disease management issues in Michigan vegetable and floriculture productions systems.

The individual will assist in overseeing and coordinating research and laboratory operations in order to meet research goals, perform experimental tests, assays, and record and analyze results in order to provide conclusive data for research projects. They will consult with the research supervisor in order to assist in planning and designing experiments. The individual will be responsible for supervising undergraduate students and coordinating activities for laboratory technicians and graduate students. They will oversee compliance to laboratory safety regulations and procedures, and oversee laboratory needs, and order materials, supplies and equipment.

The position will be mainly in the laboratory but may include work in the office and greenhouse. Laboratory activities will include microscopy, pathogen isolation and propagation, molecular testing, assay development, and maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment. The individual will also be responsible for training technicians and students in molecular techniques. Office activities will include statistical data analysis, technical report writing, and effective communication with MSU extension educators and collaborators within and outside of the state. Greenhouse activities will include maintaining research trials and data collection.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired through completion of one or two years of post-bachelor degree work, such as a Master's in the Plant Pathology of research employment; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in research methodologies, writing reports, supervision, software, data interpretation and handling; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; 

Desired Qualifications

• A doctorate in Plant Pathology or related discipline
• Experience identifying genomic regions of Botrytis cinerea associated with fungicide resistance through comparative genome analysis and Fusarium genetic analysis including comparative transcriptome analysis, genetics of colonization in plant hosts, and gene deletion mutations for functional analysis.
• Three or more years of work experience to include: molecular techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing; sampling, spore trapping, isolation, and identification of fungal and oomycete pathogens; and experience designing and conducting greenhouse research trials on host plant resistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Cover letter,
• Curriculum Vitae,
• Names and contact information of three professional references.

Special Instructions

Address cover letter to Dr. Mary Hausbeck (hausbec1@msu.edu), Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with renewal possible contingent upon funding.

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

Bidding eligibility ends August 12, 2025 at 11:55 P.M.