Position Function:
The incumbent will develop an effective entomology Extension and applied research program focused on integrated pest management (IPM) for horticultural food producers in Mississippi and the Midsouth. The position will involve close collaboration with Extension specialists to deliver IPM-related information to commercial producers, small-scale farmers, and homeowners. The successful candidate will be expected to publish research findings, participate in graduate student training, teach in educational programs, and actively engage with professional societies and university/industry committees. Numerous opportunities exist for collaborative Extension and applied research across the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station locations. The academic home will be in the Department of Agricultural Science and Plant Protection.
Salary Grade: UC
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center (CMREC), one of four Research and Extension Centers in the Mississippi State University (MSU) system, is in Raymond, Mississippi. The CMREC oversees a team of state specialists from the MSU Extension Service and the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES). The center's mission is to develop research and Extension programs tailored to the needs of the state's central and southern regions, aiming to improve the economic well-being of agricultural producers, industries, and rural and urban citizens.
The MAFES Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station is administratively associated with the CMREC and is in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, approximately 30 minutes from the CMREC and Jackson, Mississippi. The Truck Crops Station, established in 1938, encompasses 175 acres, making it the largest horticulture research facility in the MSU system. Researchers at the Truck Crops Station focus on conducting variety trials and evaluating the performance of vegetables, ornamental crops, fruits, and pecans under various field, greenhouse, and high tunnel conditions. The station includes two laboratories, a shop, three greenhouses, and six high tunnels, including three dedicated to organic fruits and vegetables. The station's research and Extension programs are designed to directly benefit the state's vegetable, ornamental, fruit, and nut industries.
Area of Specialization:
Entomology
Anticipated Appointment Date:
January 1, 2025.
Tenure Track Status:
Yes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will conduct Extension and applied entomology research related to optimizing commercial and residential food horticultural systems in Mississippi. In developing the Extension and applied research program, the incumbent will work collaboratively with commodity groups, producers, homeowners, and agribusinesses. The goal will be to promote efficient integrated pest management (IPM) practices in horticultural crops and identify techniques to effectively and efficiently manage insect pests while protecting crop yields and farm profitability.
The incumbent is expected to develop a statewide Extension program focused on entomology issues related to food horticulture. This will require a demonstrated ability to communicate research findings effectively and troubleshoot problems with farmers, homeowners, and Extension personnel. The Extension program will include:
• Competency/in-service training for Extension agents
• Development and publication of appropriate Extension materials such as publications, instructional videos, or other digital and social media content
• Provision of technical assistance for Extension agents, farmers, homeowners, and other stakeholders
• Delivery of information through other appropriate Extension methods
The incumbent will also demonstrate and present information and updates through effective program delivery by planning and participating in local, state, regional, and national professional and stakeholder meetings.
The incumbent will collaborate with colleagues to secure grant and contract funding to support the applied research and Extension efforts.
The research component is expected to include evaluating damage thresholds, assessing new and existing insecticides, studying host plant resistance, and developing other IPM-related strategies. The incumbent will be expected to collaborate with other scientific disciplines at the Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station, other research and Extension centers, the main campus of Mississippi State University, USDA-ARS, and other relevant groups to develop and improve IPM programs in horticultural crops.
Publishing research findings in appropriate professional journals is expected. The incumbent will be encouraged to participate in graduate student training and contribute to collaborative teaching in off-campus and campus-based educational programs in entomology and pest management, whether formal or non-formal.
The incumbent will work closely with the broader Extension system to facilitate the delivery of IPM-related information to stakeholders, including commercial producers, small-scale farmers, and homeowners.
The successful candidate will actively participate in professional societies and organizations, as well as appropriate Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station and Mississippi State University committees and commodity groups. This should include coordinating entomology and IPM research goals and objectives through collaborative efforts.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. in entomology or a closely related field from an accredited institution of higher learning. Individuals who are ABD (all but dissertation) will be considered.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated experience and expertise in entomology and integrated pest management (IPM).
ABDs or degree pending considered (all but DISS):
Yes.
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong experience in integrated pest management in horticultural production.
Demonstrated excellence or potential in:
Conducting applied research
Developing and delivering effective Extension programs
Obtaining extramural grant funding
Publishing scholarly work
Proficiency in statistics and experimental design.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication skills are required for the position.
Organizational and leadership skills are also important.
Demonstrated experience and expertise in entomology and integrated pest management (IPM).
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
This job is an Extension position with applied research expectations. Willingness and ability to work in a farm environment is essential. Frequent travel including overnight stays can be expected.
Significant amount of physical activity. Physical work is more than 25 percent of the job. Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants MUST apply online at explore.msujobs.msstate.edu and attach a letter of interest, current curriculum vitae, transcripts of all college and university work, and the names and complete contact information of three professional references.
Inquires can be emailed to Dr. Curt Lacy at curt.lacy@msstate.edu. For more information, contact Curt Lacy at 601-857-2284. A review of applications will begin September 16, 2024; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Please note that any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online and that official transcripts will be requested of finalists.
Screening Date:
September 16, 2024, until filled.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
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If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
