Plant Disease Diagnostician (Public Service Assistant)

UGA Savannah River Ecology Laboratory; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Plant Disease Diagnostician to lead the Plant Disease Clinic at its Athens Campus. This role involves identifying plant diseases, providing management recommendations, and contributing to extension publications. Ideal candidates will have a Master’s degree in Plant Pathology or related fields, along with strong communication skills and relevant experience. Join a forward-thinking team that plays a crucial role in supporting home landscapes and turf management, making a positive impact on the community through effective disease management strategies.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in relevant field required.
• Experience in plant disease diagnosis preferred.

Responsibilities

• Identify plant diseases and communicate results to clients.
• Maintain clinic records and prepare media for diagnoses.

Skills

Plant Disease Diagnosis

Communication Skills

Data Management

Education

Master’s degree in Plant Pathology

Graduate-level coursework in related discipline

Job description

Plant Disease Diagnostician (Public Service Assistant)

Join to apply for the Plant Disease Diagnostician (Public Service Assistant) role at UGA Savannah River Ecology Laboratory.

Position Details

The Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Georgia (UGA) seeks to hire a Plant Disease Diagnostician to operate the Plant Disease Clinic at the Athens Campus and provide disease management recommendations for home landscapes and turf. This is a fiscal-year (12-month), 100% Extension position at the rank of Public Service Assistant (non-tenure track faculty position). The appointee will be a member of the Department of Plant Pathology faculty under the direction of the Department Head.

Main Responsibilities

• Identify plant diseases and their causal agents in samples submitted to the Athens Plant Disease Clinic, including ornamental, landscape, turf, and some fruit samples. Enter sample information into the management system and communicate results to clients and extension agents.
• Maintain clinic records, respond to inquiries, and contribute data for reports. Communicate with clients and county Extension offices as needed.
• Prepare media and materials for diagnoses, oversee lab equipment maintenance, monitor inventory and expenses, and order supplies.
• Issue disease management recommendations and contribute to extension publications related to disease diagnosis and management.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in Plant Pathology, Plant Protection and Pest Management, Plant Medicine, or related discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Graduate-level coursework and/or publications related to plant disease diagnosis.

Additional Requirements

Relevant experience, knowledge, and skills in plant disease diagnosis are preferred.

Application Materials

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Graduate transcripts
• Statement on plant disease diagnosis experience (upload as Other Documents #1)
• Four professional references with contact information

Review of applications begins March 21, 2025, and continues until the position is filled. Inquiries should be directed to Dr. Alejandra Jimenez Madrid at [e-mail]. Selected applicants will need to pass a background check.