Open Positions

Putnam - Faculty Research Assistant

The Department of Ag Botany & Plant Pathology invites applications for a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term Faculty Research Assistant position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head.

This full-time position is to provide primary support of disease diagnostics efforts in the OSU Plant Clinic, and to assist or perform applied research regarding etiology; plant pathogens, their detection, and epidemiology. An experienced diagnostician is preferred, but we will train an exceptional person with enthusiasm for plant disease diagnosis and providing outstanding service to clients. This is a dynamic position and the successful candidate must be flexible, able to rapidly adapt to changing demands, and work creatively and productively within the confines of time constraints. The successful candidate will have excellent problem-solving and analytical thinking skills, knowledge of plant biology, is detail-oriented, and can address multiple demands on one’s time.

Reappointment is at the discretion of the the Department Head.

The physical working conditions are those of a standard microbiology laboratory involving standing and sitting, and alternating between both (e.g. between examination table and bench microscopes). Use of microscopes, cameras, autoclaves and other standard lab equipment. Handling of ingredients to make media, including antimicrobial compounds. Occasional work in a greenhouse located within 1/4 mile of the work site. Long periods of computer use may be necessary. Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds of plant material on occasion.

 

Responsibilities:

• Plant disease diagnosis, including biotic and abiotic causality, using traditional morphological, biochemical, serological, and molecular methods consistent with protocols and in a timely manner;
• Thoroughly documenting sample information and maintaining and updating Plant Clinic records, including those required by State and Federal authorities;
• Documenting samples by taking publication quality digital images;
• Communicating with clients via phone and e-mail; writing replies for clients which summarize results from diagnostic assays and observations; provide recommendations for disease management consistent with current laws;
• Participating in the upkeep of general laboratory order, functions, and cleanliness, and in maintenance of and ordering laboratory stocks, materials, and equipment;
• Maintaining integrity of sample quality;
• Keeping track of equipment certification needs;
• Analyzing, modifying, and validating new detection methodologies for pathogen identification; includes analyzing DNA sequences and evaluating suitability for detection using web based bioinformatics;
• Participating in or conducting greenhouse and growth chamber experiments.

Breakdown:

• 80%: Diagnosis of plant diseases using appropriate technology; ensuring implementation of appropriate handling and reporting, according to protocols; adapting protocols or designing new detection protocols using molecular methods; photographing plant samples; and assisting the laboratory staff with their operations and experiments.
• 10% Supervision, including planning work schedules, assigning work, and recruiting student hourly workers.
• 5% Preparation of progress reports for grant funding agencies; preparation of presentations and manuscripts for peer reviewed publication.
• 5% Service
  • 1. Participate in departmental faculty meetings, committees, and other appropriate activities. Driving maybe required to reach destinations.
  • 2. Serve on Extension, College, and University committees as appropriate.
  • 3. Serve on external committees and boards as requested and as appropriate.

Requirements:

• An earned BS degree in plant pathology or closely related field
• Experience with classical microbiological and routine molecular methods for pathogen isolation and identification
• Demonstrated ability to work productively, effectively, and cooperatively with colleagues; ability to work independently while also working to meet team goals
• Demonstrated ability to consistently meet deadlines
• Must be fluent in oral and written English
• Ability to search scientific literature and to distinguish between valid and invalid sources of information
• Experience with common computer software for word processing, data analysis graphics, and records databases.
• Must have the ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings and weekends; must be willing and able to drive self to meetings and other events as necessary
• Must obtain a pesticide applicator’s license within 90 days of hire

Preferred:

• An earned MS (with thesis) and two years’ experience diagnosing plant problems, including diseases caused by fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, phytoplasmas and viruses; abiotic disorders; and recognition of damage caused by insects, other arthropods and mammals.

Anticipated to begin on January 2nd, 2023.

Closing on November 15th, 2022.

More Info

 

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BPP - Ecampus Academic Advisor and Instructor

The Department of Botany and Plant Pathology (BPP) invites applications for a full-time, 12-month, Ecampus Academic Advisor and Instructor position. The incumbent will hold two appointments, a 0.45 FTE position as Ecampus Academic Advisor, and a 0.55 FTE fixed-term Instructor, reflecting job duties in both the academic and administrative areas.

Reappointment is at the discretion of the the Department Head.

Responsibilities:

• 50%: Develop and teach five sections of two to three Botany Ecampus courses
  • Including, not limited to, Mycology and Plant Ecology
• 45%: Advising approximately 125 Botany Ecampus students through email, zoom and other technologies
  • Communicate with students frequently the Botany/OSU degree requirements
  • Assist with scheduling classes
  • Certify degree completion
• 5%: Other university/department services
  • Reviewing manuscripts for publication & funding proposals
  • Involvement in professional organizations
  • Other services as needed

Requirements:

• M.S. in  Botany, Plant Sciences, or related field of Life Sciences.
• Demonstrable commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Comfortable working in an office environment and engaging regularly with students.

Preferred:

• Ph.D. in Botany, Plant Sciences, or related field of Life Sciences.
• Computer and office/communication software proficiency.

Anticipated to begin on August 1st, 2022.

Closing on June 23rd, 2022.

More Info

 

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