The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University invites outstanding applicants for a tenure-track Extension Specialist and Assistant Professor in agricultural microbiomes.

Understanding and harnessing microbiomes to improve crop production and enhance stress resilience is an urgent priority for advancing sustainable management of agricultural systems. The current explosion in microbiome technologies is only expected to grow given expectations of a future with increased population demand and more extreme climate conditions.

Possible focal areas for this position include but are not limited to plant foliar or root symbionts, root-microbe-soil interactions, nutrient acquisition and cycling, pre- and post-harvest microbial systems, and commercial treatment of seed with beneficial microbes to improve field performance. A well-qualified individual would be able to contribute to multiple areas of relevance to North Carolina. The applicant’s research and extension program is expected to enhance sustainable agriculture in NC, particularly for high-value crops in the North Carolina agricultural industry.

The microbiome extension specialist would serve as a bridge between existing faculty research in basic microbiome science and the applied research needs of growers, processors, and the agricultural biotech industry in the region. The candidate will be expected to work closely with plant and microbial research programs in the department, as well as with research and extension faculty in the Departments of Crop and Soil Science, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Horticultural Science, and Biological and Agricultural Engineering.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in plant biology, microbiology, crop science, soil science, or related discipline, and a commitment to excellence in extension and engagement with constituencies outside the university. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate the potential to build a strong, integrated research and extension program. Inclusiveness and diversity are critical to the success of the university. Therefore, the selected candidate will be expected to foster an environment that is welcoming of all groups.

To apply for this position, visit https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/115951 and provide: (1) cover letter; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) research statement; (4) extension statement incorporating a vision for how you plan to engage with constituents throughout the state of North Carolina; (5) contact information for three references. Confidential inquiries and nominations should be directed to Dr. Christine Hawkes, Search Chair, chawkes@ncsu.edu. Review of applications will begin July 1, 2019 and continue until the position is filled.

NCSU is an AA/EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status or disability. NC State welcomes all persons without regard to sexual orientation or genetic information. In its commitment to diversity and equity, NC State University seeks applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. ADA Accommodations: please call 919-515-3148.