A PhD Graduate Research Assistantship is available starting Summer 2022 to work in an 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. For more information on our program please visit https://bigskyplantdoc.org/.
Benefits:
· $30,000/yr stipend
· Paid tuition, fees, and insurance
· One semester teaching experience through a paid teaching assistantship
This grant funded research project focuses on understanding how communities of species within the Fusarium head blight disease complex affect disease development and host plant resistance. 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 laboratory and field research as well as enthusiasm for collaboration. Ideally an applicant will possess a MS degree in plant pathology 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).