Plant Pathologist and Director of the WSU Pullman Plant Diagnostic Clinic

Responsibilities

• Lead the assessment, preparation, and diagnosis of plant samples submitted to the clinic
• Provide appropriate management recommendations to a wide range of stakeholders, including producers and industry professionals
• Manage the WSU Pullman Plant Diagnostic Clinic, including technical staff and student employees
• Implement and manage a business plan for the clinic, including financial oversight and fiscal planning
• Collaborate with Extension faculty, advisory boards, and commodity associations to deliver educational programming
• Contribute to service activities within the Department of Plant Pathology and relevant professional societies

Requirements

• Master's degree in plant pathology (or emphasis in plant pathology)
• Four years of experience in plant diagnostics, including knowledge of fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes
• At least one year of supervisory experience
• Proficiency in plant diagnostic techniques, including microscopy, culturing microbes, and molecular diagnostics
• Demonstrated laboratory management skills, including database and fiscal management
• Ability to obtain a Washington State driver’s license and a WSDA Pesticide Applicator’s license
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD degree in plant pathology
• Previous experience in plant disease clinic management
• Experience managing budgets, fee structuring, and developing business plans
• Experience in an academic or government environment
• Published research or Extension publications

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability insurance
• Paid sick and vacation leave plus paid holidays
• Retirement and deferred compensation options
• Employee tuition waiver and training/development opportunities

About the Company

Washington State University (WSU) is a land-grant university dedicated to academic excellence and innovative research. The WSU Pullman Plant Diagnostic Clinic serves the Pacific Northwest by providing critical diagnostic services and educational support to the agricultural, forestry, and horticultural sectors.