Position Overview

As part of MSU Extension (MSUE), the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute (AABI) and MSU AgBioResearch (ABR), this position provides local and statewide leadership and will conduct programming and applied research in apple production. Michigan is the second-most agriculturally diverse state within the United States and is the 3rd leading apple producing state in the U.S. This position is located near the major apple production region in Michigan. The position will conduct Extension programming and research germane to the apple industry and work with apple growers within the region and statewide as needed and will collaborate across work teams and Institutes, including working with faculty, specialists, and educators to achieve efficient, profitable, and sustainable apple production and overall advancement for the Michigan apple industry.

In this position, you will also design, implement, and evaluate educational programming based on basic and applied research addressing the needs of Michigan growers. You will secure intra- and extramural grant funding to support your research and Extension programs, will ensure dissemination of research-based information through various methods, including multi-media, social media, personal education, and written articles, and will provide growers, processors, and agri-business professionals with the knowledge to profitably produce their crop, while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, you will serve as an informational resource for MSU personnel and clientele.

The position will be based at the 440-acre Clarksville Research Center, located in Clarksville, Michigan, near the leading apple producing region of Michigan.

Application Deadline: April 3, 2023.

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.

MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations. The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities.

Minimum Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field of study related to horticulture or crop science, and/or related to apple production must be earned by date of hire.
• Background in apple production, and experience in horticulture practices related to apple research and education.