Field Research Scientist--Soybean (Webster)

Position Overview:

The Department of Plant Pathology at North Dakota State University is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Field Scientist to join our Extension Soybean Pathology Lab. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic research team focused on advancing our understanding and management of soybean diseases, with a particular emphasis on diseases affecting soybean production in North Dakota.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct field trials and experiments related to soybean disease management, including field site management, plot establishment, and data collection.
• Collaborate with Extension specialists, soybean pathologists, and agronomists to develop and implement research protocols.
• Provide support in Extension activities, including farmer outreach, field days, and workshops.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and publications to disseminate research findings.
• Supervise and train undergraduate and graduate students involved in field research.
• Maintain field equipment and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Qualifications:

• Minimum:
  • PhD or Master’s degree in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Crop Science, or a related field.
  • 2 years of experience in conducting field research, preferably in agricultural or plant pathology settings.
  • Strong understanding of soybean production and disease management practices of North Dakota
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and use of statistical software.
  • Valid Department of Transportation Driver’s License with an acceptable driving history.
  • Must current hold a pesticide applicators/advisor license or be able to obtain one within 12 months of hire.
• Preferred:
  • Familiarity of North Dakota’s soybean disease challenges.
  • Experience with Extension activities and farmer outreach events.
  • Currently hold a part 107 remote pilot certificate or be able to obtain one within 12 months of hire.
  • Experience with data management and organization.

Why Join Us?

• Work with a leading research team dedicated to improving soybean production and disease management.
• Engage with local farmers and agricultural professionals to make a tangible impact on regional agriculture.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources within the Department of Plant Pathology.
• Opportunities for professional development.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience relevant to the position.
• A current curriculum vitae (CV).
• Contact information for three professional references.

Deadline to submit application is April 9, 2025

Contact Information:

For questions regarding the position, please contact:

Dr. Richard Wade Webster
Department of Plant Pathology
North Dakota State University
richard.webster@ndsu.edu
701-231-7057

NDSU OFFERS EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Health Insurance coverage with 100% of the premium paid for by NDSU for Single or Family Plan
  • Option of a PPO/Basic Plan or High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account
  • Benefits begin the first of the month following date of hire
  • Wellness benefits are included for healthy lifestyle participation
• Superb Retirement Plan
  • Employer Contributions range from 7.5% - 12.26% based on position
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Tuition Waivers for Employee (three classes per calendar year)
• Tuitions Waivers for Spouse/Partner & Dependents (eligible for 50% waiver)
• Paid Leave – including Annual leave, Sick Leave and 10 paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Optional benefits include: Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-term care insurance, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) and Supplemental Retirement Plans
• More Detailed Information Here: Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.

NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

EO/AA Statement:

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

Diversity Statement:

NDSU strives to be a community of belonging, recognizing unique differences as strengths of our university. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce that supports a community in which diverse populations and perspectives will know and learn from one another. NDSU values candidates who are committed to our core values of respect, inclusivity, community, creativity, excellence, impact, innovation, integrity, resilience, responsiveness, and transformation. Successful candidates will be committed to and help advance our strategic goal to create and maintain an open and respectful environment to promote inclusivity and diversity as a cornerstone of education, research, and outreach.

Veteran’s Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu.