The Extension state specialist in plant pathology directs and operates all aspects of the UNH-Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab, including diagnosis of plant health problems and communication of results, maintaining sample information and data, and supervising staff. The UNH-PDDL provides diagnostic services for plant health issues for commercial producers, home horticulturists, landscapers, turf managers, arborists, extension staff, state and regulatory agencies and others and is a member of the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN). This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position located on the University of New Hampshire’s Durham, N.H. campus. It is a non-tenure track, 100% Extension appointment.The specialist will collaborate with faculty, Extension specialists, and agricultural stakeholders to lead and support outreach efforts as part of a team that is working to develop and implement innovative, relevant, and impactful programming in the field of plant health. We expect strong synergies with UNH faculty and specialists working in diverse areas of agricultural systems including integrated pest management, sustainable horticulture, crop development, and protected agriculture, including both food and non-food crops.The specialist will provide instruction and technical assistance to clients including farm businesses, Extension field specialists, technical service providers, and partner agencies, and will disseminate current research-based information through seminars, face-to-face meetings, webinars, field demonstrations, print/web resources and other appropriate methods.The successful candidate will participate in the development of connections between local agricultural producers and University researchers. They will contribute to or conduct practical applied on-farm research to support the state and region’s agricultural community. The specialist will engage with undergraduate and graduate students through classes and mentorship. The specialist will work with industry and Extension colleagues across the New England states and will compete successfully in national and regional funding initiatives. Beginning in the second year of employment, state specialists must generate 25% of annual salary from external grants and contracts. 

Ph.D. in plant pathology or closely related discipline.Demonstrated experience with diagnosis of a wide range of plant disease problems on multiple host plants.Demonstrated excellence in laboratory skills (microscopy, isolating and culturing pathogens, serological, biochemical, and molecular diagnostic techniques).Demonstrated effective interpersonal and written communication skills.Demonstrated ability to work well as part of a team.Experience in planning and delivering educational programs for adult audiences.Demonstrated laboratory management skills, including supervising and training staff and student workers.Willingness and ability to establish and work with a diverse network of constituents and community members across race, gender, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences to assist with program development and outreach.Ability to regularly travel throughout the state, as well as travel in the region. Travel costs will be reimbursed at the federal rate.