Question Arthropod diagnostician position at Michigan State University

The Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial (PSM) Sciences and The Department of Entomology at Michigan State University invite applications for a full-time, 12-month fixed-term Academic Specialist - Outreach with a 25% teaching and 75% extension.

Apply: For consideration, submit your application online at careers.msu.edu - Job Posting 905928

Application closes: November 15, 2023

Position Summary: The position start date is anticipated to be March 1, 2024. The Michigan State University’s Plant & Pest Diagnostics lab (MSU PPD) provides high-quality, timely client-oriented services related to plant health and pest-related problems. Lab staff have expertise in plant pathology, nematology, weed science, abiotic factors that affect plant health, as well as entomology, and work as a team on diagnostic samples. As the North Central regional center of the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN), laboratory staff also connect nationally with other diagnosticians to serve on committees, share protocols and expertise, and continue professional development. Finally, diagnosticians support research programs, teach undergraduate courses, and support the broader academic mission. MSU seeks an individual with strong entomology and outreach experience to work effectively and collaboratively with the PPD team.

Qualifications: MS in Entomology is required. Expertise in morphological arthropod identification. Familiarity with arthropod pest management and pesticides. Ability to work both independently and as part of a diagnostic team. Experience in interacting with and teaching a range of diverse audiences. Evidence of excellent written and verbal communication skills. Formal and specific experience in arthropod diagnostics, including the use of molecular techniques. Demonstrated outreach experience, e.g., writing fact sheets, delivering extension presentations, organizing and delivering training workshops, etc. Experience developing and delivering pest management recommendations. Teaching experience at the college level.

Required Application Materials

a) Cover letter that states how the candidate meets the requirements of this position (2-page maximum)
b) Current curriculum vitae
c) A description of how you will contribute to our diversity, equity and inclusion goals (1 page maximum)
d) Names and contact information for 3 professional references Please share the announcement widely. Sincerely,Sarah Sarah M. Smith, PhDCurator & Collection Manager
A.J. Cook Arthropod Research CollectionDepartment of EntomologyMichigan State University
Natural Science Building
288 Farm Lane, room 243
East Lansing, MI 48824-1115517-353-1630 (office)