Assistant Professor - Extension Plant Pathologist

Job Information

Closing Date: 01/07/2026

Applications Acceptable Until: February 1, 2026

Type of Position: Faculty – Non‑Tenure

Workstudy Position:
No

Job Type: Regular

Work Shift:

N/A

Sponsorship Available: No

Institution Name: Division of Agriculture of the University of Arkansas

Entomology and Plant Pathology

The successful candidate is expected to develop an active integrated extension and research program focusing on management of diseases impacting production and quality in rice and other major Arkansas crops. They will lead statewide efforts to educate farmers, extension agents, and seed and chemical industries on disease management. The successful candidate will focus on applied, field‑based aspects of disease management and improvement of disease resistance and tolerance.

Focal areas could include chemical control, improved host resistance, epidemiology, cultural practices, or other strategies to improve integrated management of crop plant diseases. Integration of county agents into extension activities, timely response to agent questions, development of training programs, and an applied research program to support extension efforts are essential to success. The incumbent is expected to extend information via a variety of platforms, including fact sheets, presentations at production or crop management meetings, websites, and social media.

There is an expectation of conducting applied research, successful grantsmanship, publication of peer‑reviewed research and participation at national and regional meetings. The candidate will mentor graduate students, provide service to the institution and state, and collaborate with extension and research faculty. The position requires willingness and flexibility to travel statewide.

Minimum Qualifications: A doctoral degree in plant pathology or a related discipline is required. Strong oral and written communication skills are required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a cooperative extension program and rice field pathology is preferred.
• Preference will be given to candidates with a demonstrated ability to work effectively across disciplines in applied agricultural systems.

The position is located at the University of Arkansas Rice Research and Extension Center (RREC) in Stuttgart, AR, where there is potential for collaboration with scientists at the adjacent Dale Bumpers USDA‑ARS National Rice Research Center. The RREC encompasses over 1,000 acres dedicated to testing, developing, and disseminating best practices for crop production. While rice is at the core of activity, the RREC is also a site for important research on soybeans, corn, grain sorghum, and wheat.

In addition to resources for field and plot research, the RREC is home to high quality laboratory and greenhouse space, a large conference center, and a seed processing facility. More information is available for the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology and the RREC at the provided web addresses.

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• Curriculum Vitae
• List of three Professional References (name, email, business title)
• Statement of Research Philosophy

Please provide
1) a cover letter;
2) a statement of extension and research interests;
3) curriculum vitae; and
4) contact information of three professional references.

Dr. Terry Spurlock, tspurlock

Motor Vehicle Reports Check

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and services (including employment) without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual preference, pregnancy or any other legally protected status, and is an equal opportunity institution. Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Constant Physical Activity: Hearing, Standing, Talking, Walking

Frequent Physical Activity: Balancing, Crawling, Crouching, Driving, Feeling, Kneeling, Pulling, Pushing

Occasional Physical Activity: Lifting, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Reaching, Sitting

Benefits Eligible:
Yes

Commensurate with education and experience