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Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology/Row Crops and Pecans

Fort Valley State University · Fort Valley, GA · 2 wk ago
Full-time

FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for a 12-month research appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor with expertise in Plant Pathology.

About the Role

The College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology (CAFST) seeks an energetic and student-focused faculty member for a hybrid position with appointment in Departments of Agricultural Research (75%) and Agricultural Sciences (25% instruction). The incumbent will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Plant Science and Plant Pathology, advise and mentor students, support relevant student organizations, and assist with recruitment in plant sciences/plant pathology and related fields.

The successful candidate will develop a robust field-based research program addressing diseases in economically important row crops, peaches, and pecans in Georgia. The role involves establishing relationships with stakeholders in Middle Georgia, securing extramural funding, and collaborating with the FVSU Cooperative Extension Service. Exposure to pesticides and chemicals is possible; candidates must obtain pesticide certification and wear prescribed PPE. Start-up funds are available contingent upon submission of a competitive research plan.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver high-quality instruction in undergraduate and graduate courses in Plant Science using modern instructional approaches.
  • Design, prepare, and supervise student laboratory and experiential learning activities.
  • Utilize internal learning platforms (e.g., Desire2Learn) and other instructional technologies to deliver course materials and engage students.
  • Develop course objectives, assignments, and effective methods for assessing student learning outcomes; provide timely and constructive feedback.
  • Engage undergraduate and graduate students in research and experiential learning opportunities.
  • Develop and sustain a robust field-based competitive research program in Plant Pathology addressing Middle Georgia priorities.
  • Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research.
  • Establish collaborative relationships with industry partners, stakeholders, and institutions within the University System of Georgia.
  • Secure extramural funding through competitive grants and collaborative partnerships.
  • Provide service to professional organizations, the college, university, and broader community.
  • Collaborate with the Cooperative Extension service to support producers in Middle Georgia.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • Ph.D. in Plant Pathology.
  • Demonstrated expertise in crop production systems and potential to develop a productive and high-quality research program.
  • Field research experience with plant diseases.
  • Knowledge of emerging research priorities relevant to Georgia agriculture.
  • Evidence of innovative instructional pedagogy, including familiarity with AI-assisted education and research technologies.
  • Ability to create inclusive, effective learning environments that support student success.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate effectively in teaching, research, and extension settings.
  • Strong interpersonal, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated potential to secure external research funding.
  • Ability to successfully pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Demonstrated ability to publish research in relevant journals.
  • Demonstrated ability to secure competitive funding.
  • Mentoring experience with research staff or students.
  • Experience managing research budgets and field operations.
  • Ability to conduct research and communicate results to Cooperative Extension agents.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative multi-disciplinary team.
  • Knowledge of IPM and Biological Control.
  • Experience collaborating with industry, producers, and Extension personnel.

Application Materials

  • A letter of interest addressing the responsibilities and qualifications of the position.
  • Current curriculum vitae.
  • Undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
  • At least 3 references with full contact information, including emails.

Additional information may be requested upon receipt of the application.

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