Plant Health Expert

Role Responsibilities : Serve as an interface with host research team and institution.Development and validation of disease and agronomic performance bioassays.Ensure timely completion of trait evaluation growth chamber, greenhouse and field trial confirmation phase of testing for the designated territory.Production of disease inoculum to utilize in bioassays and field trials.Plan, manage and execute all activities necessary to deliver high quality data for statistical analysis and trait confirmation, including experimental design and data collection into breeding database software.Lead bioassay protocol development, and collaborate with Plant Pathology, Product Development, Greenhouse and Field Agronomy Teams to ensure trial objectives and data collection meet requirements for advancement decision-making process.Summarize data findings and communicate results to Plant Pathology and Product Development stakeholders.Monitor and evaluate research trials conducted through third party cooperators, including regular site visits and on-going management / maintenance feedback. Relationship management to maintain and expand this third-party network in key geographies.Establish and maintain industry presence and ensure that we are up to date on current industry activities by participating in meetings and establishing contacts with external parties including key University researchers.Qualifications : B.S. or M.S. in one of the agricultural sciences, such as Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Plant Breeding & Genetics, or related field.3+ years prior industry experience in plant pathology, agronomy or research, including knowledge of bioassay development and implementation and small plot field testing.Experience with pathogen assay and handling plant pathogen culture.Knowledge and understanding plant pathology, plant breeding and molecular biology.Familiarity with disease rating under various growth environments.Familiarity with genotyping using PCR based marker tools.Knowledge and understanding of Integrated Pest Management principles and practices, plant propagation and culture methods, and soil and growth media preparation is required.Familiarity with fertilizers and pesticides, greenhouse and growth chamber lighting and control systems, and field crop species.Experience in developing and validating plant pathogen and agronomic bioassays.Knowledge of statistical analysis and experimental design principles.Experience with breeding database software, including creating protocols and data analysis asset.Knowledge and experience with UAV technology and remote sensing tools an asset.Strong foundation in following SOPs. Able to develop SOPs and perform troubleshooting on procedures.