University of Missouri Seeks Assistant Professor and State Extension Specialist (Plant Pathology)

The Division of Plant Science and Technology in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri (MU) is recruiting an Assistant Professor and State Extension Specialist in plant pathology with an emphasis on field and forage crops. This is a 9-month, tenure-track faculty position located on the MU campus in Columbia, MO.

 

The successful candidate is expected to develop and implement an extension/research program that is focused on diseases of field and forage crops. Expertise in plant diseases common to crops grown in Missouri, including diseases of soybean, corn, sorghum, wheat, or forages is desirable. Extension responsibilities will include statewide program leadership with the expectation of collaborative work with other state specialists, extension field specialists, producers, and stakeholders. The faculty member will develop an externally funded research program that generates new knowledge and sustainable approaches to manage plant disease issues that impact corn, soybean, small grain and/or forage crops. Consequently, there is an explicit expectation that the faculty member will demonstrate excellence in grantsmanship and timely communication of scholarship and research findings via peer-reviewed journal articles and professional meetings. They will be expected to work as part of a collaborative team of faculty members in areas that include plant pathology, agronomy, entomology, plant physiology, weed science, soil science and others, as appropriate. Collaborations with the Plant Diagnostic Clinic (https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/plant-diagnostic-clinic) and the Soybean Cyst Nematode Diagnostic Clinic (https://scndiagnostics.com/) are expected. This position also includes opportunities for leadership in the Integrated Pest Management program (https://ipm.missouri.edu/). Service to the Division, College and University is also expected.

 

PhD in plant pathology or a closely related discipline by the time of appointment.

 

Candidates will be evaluated on: Training and/or experience in applied research in plant pathology. Effective oral and written communications skills. Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and have interest and ability to work in a collaborative interdisciplinary environment. Previous experience in extension program development and stakeholder interactions. Experience with crop production and plant diseases. Securing extramural funding and experience conducting applied research.

 

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

 

Information about the Program, Campus, and Community: The Plant Science and Technology Division includes a diverse group of approximately 50 faculty, including a strong agriculture extension program that works with dozens of agronomic and horticulture extension field specialists located across the state. The University of Missouri campus is located in Columbia, MO, a vibrant and growing college town of over 120,000 with a high quality of life and relatively low cost of living. Columbia is in central Missouri, half-way between Kansas City and St. Louis, about 2 hours from each of those metropolitan areas. Missouri is a state with both a strong agriculture base and abundant natural areas for recreation and enjoyment. Learn more about Columbia and Missouri at https://www.visitcolumbiamo.com/

 

Application Deadline: Candidate screening will begin January 16, 2023, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

 

 

Apply online https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings for Job ID 44933. Be prepared to upload: 1) cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience pertinent to the responsibilities of the position, description of qualifications, and career goals

2) copies of all graduate level transcripts

3) contact information for four letters of reference and 4) curriculum vitae, which should include a biographical sketch, service, and a complete list of publications and grants.

 

The University of Missouri values diversity and is committed to working towards achieving equity and inclusion within all its programs. Candidates applying for this position are required to provide a statement addressing how they would utilize their former experience and knowledge to promote diversity and inclusion at the university and how that commitment would add value to the Division of Plant Science and Technology.

 

Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Human Resource Services at (573) 882-7976 or muhrs@missouri.edu. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Walter Gassmann (Search Committee Chair

gassmannw@missouri.edu).

 

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The University of Missouri is fully committed to achieving the goal of a diverse and inclusive academic community of faculty, staff and students. We seek individuals who are committed to this goal and our core campus values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence.

 

The University of Missouri is an equal access, equal opportunity, affirmative action employer that is fully committed to achieving a diverse faculty and staff. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. For more information, call the Associate Vice Chancellor of Human Resource Services/Affirmative Action officer at 573-882-4256. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Disability Inclusion and ADA Compliance Manager at 573-884-7278.