Position Details Position Information Announcement Number STAFF - VA - 25133 For questions regarding this position, please contact: Alan Dyeradyer@montana.edu406-994-6535Classification Title Research Professional Working Title Post Doctoral Associate Brief Position Overview A Post Doctoral Associate is sought by the Cereal Pathology Program at Montana State University. Research involves Fusaria associated with dying-off of Canada thistle and other thistle associated pathogens. Primary research will examine Fusarium oxysporum isolates and methods to enhance their efficacy in suppressing Canada thistle in organic production fields. Supporting research on virulence mechanisms, pathogen ecology and community ecology are expected. The successful candidate will coordinate complex field research activities with team members, drive program objectives to successful conclusions, open new initiatives oriented towards understanding the underlying dynamics within the Fusarium-thistle disease system and publicize results in presentations and publications.Position Number 4C3386 Department Plant Sciences Division College of Agriculture/MAES Appointment Type Professional Contract Term Fiscal Year Semester If other, specify From date If other, specify End date FLSA Non-Exempt Union Affiliation Exempt from Collective Bargaining FTE 1.0 Benefits Eligible Eligible Salary $55,000 - $60,000 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications Contract Type LOA If other, please specify Recruitment Type Open Position Details General Statement The Cereal Pathology Program at Montana State University is dedicated to bettering the lives of growers of Montana through the development of tools for managing the most challenging pest problems in their cropping systems and through better understanding of host-pathogen and host-pathogen-community-dynamics. For this position, research involves Fusaria associated with dying-off of Canada thistle and other associated pathogens. Program Director supports strong mentoring plans focused on developing successful career scientists.Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct research directed at the weaponization of Fusaria for the management of Canada thistle in organic production systems;
Research will involve field trials focused on Canada thistle suppression, greenhouse trials focused on understanding bioherbicide functionality, and molecular/laboratory studies directed towards understanding the basis of pathogenicity, pathogen/host interactions, and/or soil community dynamics;
Publicize research results in professional presentations, grower talks, and research publications.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or closely related field.
Proven ability to conduct and publish scientific research.
Capable of designing and conducting research trials and creating initiatives to explore new discoveries.
Capable of analyzing complex data sets.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Evidence of success in molecular and field-based research.
Experience interacting with growers.
Proven success in grant writing.
The Successful Candidate Will
Be effective in organizing and coordinate teams in completing complex tasks.
Have the ability to interact with lab workers, external collaborators/stakeholders, and students in a professional, positive manner.
Maintain excellent records, attention to detail, meet deadlines, prioritize competing demands, and should be skilled at prioritizing, organizing, and working on multiple projects.
Have excellent oral and written communication skills
Be intellectually curious, logically minded, and self-driven.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funding.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver’s license, must obtain a valid Montana driver’s license within 60 days of hire.) Do NOT send a copy of the driver’s license.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.Physical Demands
Ability to lift 50 lbs
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.This position has supervisory duties? Yes Posting Detail Information Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date Upon completion of a successful search Position End Date (if temporary) Open Date Close Date Applications will be: Screening of applications will begin on October 29, 2024; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.Special Instructions EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
