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Summary: The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant–microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working within interdisciplinary teams of scientists. This role will also help implement novel molecular techniques and contribute to discovery and development efforts for biopesticides and   biostimulants.   We're   looking for someone who takes initiative and brings creative,   cutting-edge   thinking to research questions. Responsibilities Core Responsibilities: • Design and execute bioassay experiments to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions, at both small scale (lab) and large scale (greenhouse and field) • Develop, implement, and train others in fungal, oomycete, and bacterial   pathosystems   for screening new   formulations • Work with diverse microbial plant pathogens, with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens such as   Botrytis   and   Bremia • Apply experimental design   optimized   for downstream molecular   work • Collaborate and communicate effectively within and across teams, supporting a small R&D group where agility between projects is   essential Good to Have: • Experience with DNA and RNA extractions from bacterial, fungal, plant, and insect tissues, including   difficult-to-extract sample   types • Sample analysis via PCR, gel electrophoresis, and   qPCR • Microbial identification using sequencing or traditional   methods • General microbiology and molecular biology techniques • Use and maintenance of standard molecular biology   equipment Team & Project Contribution: • Maintain microbial cultures and keep the lab clean and   organized • Prepare test materials and   assist   other departments with bioassays and sample   analysis • Stay current with relevant literature and contribute novel ideas for future   research • Document work to a high standard of completeness and   accuracy • Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and   collection • Contribute to research team discussions, planning, and evaluation of   results • Participate in regular team and long-term project   planning • Perform other duties as   assigned Qualifications Education: • Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field Experience: • 3+ years of industry R&D experience with plant disease bioassays, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of   results Skills & Knowledge: • Strong knowledge of plant pathology, microbiology, and molecular biology • Proficiency   with statistics, including ANOVA and non-linear   regression • Experience with MS Office and statistical software such as JMP or R • Strong communication   skills for working with scientists across diverse backgrounds and   specializations • Ability to work independently and make day-to-day   decisions • Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and   timelines • High attention to detail, with comfort working across interdisciplinary project   teams • Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plant   material Working Conditions • Primarily lab- and greenhouse-based, with extended periods at a desk and computer • Valid driver's license   required   for occasional travel between work sites (mileage compensated) • May be   required   to obtain and   maintain   a Qualified Applicator License/Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation COMPENSATION: • ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses. • The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed. • ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required. About the Company: ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.