A PhD Graduate Research Assistantship is available starting Summer or Fall 2021 to work in the applied plant pathology research program at the Montana State University Eastern Ag Research Center in Sidney, MT. The student will join a team focused on developing new technologies and disease management recommendations for crops important in the region including pulse crops (pea, lentil, and chickpea), sugar beets, and cereals. Ultimately our program aims to increase profitability for farmers and improve sustainability in our region.
This grant funded research project focuses on understanding how intercropping disrupts disease spread and includes the use of spore trapping for pathogen detection and quantification. The student will develop skills both in the field and in the laboratory and have opportunities to attend in- and out of state meetings, as well as meet with producers and industry. This position involves travel to off-station sites around Montana for data collection.
We are looking for a highly motivated applicant with a strong interest in field plot research and enthusiasm for collaboration. Ideally an applicant will possess a MS degree in plant pathology, agronomy, crop science, or related discipline with demonstrated field research experience or a BS degree with related job experience. Excellent written and oral communication, time management skills, and the ability to work independently is also expected.
The final candidate will be required to formally apply to and be accepted by the Montana State University Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology Department https://plantsciences.montana.edu/studentinfo/grad/index.html. The student will attend classes at the MSU Bozeman campus and will spend remaining time at the research center in Sidney, MT. Inexpensive on-site housing in Sidney may be available for students. To be considered for the position, please send a current CV including references, transcripts, and a brief description of research goals and interests to Dr. Frankie Crutcher (frankie.crutcher@montana.edu).
