Assistant Professor in Seed Pathology

About the role

Appointment Type: Faculty

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities

The Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology and the Seed Science Center in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University invite applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the area of seed pathology.

We seek candidates with broad expertise in seed pathology whose research will support the development of state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that facilitate the detection of seedborne pathogens with particular emphasis on viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Candidates whose expertise encompasses the use of high-throughput sequencing and associated computational pipelines are of particular interest.

The position is 65% research, 30% teaching, and 5% service. The successful candidate is expected to develop an externally funded, high-impact research program that engages students in the broad areas of plant pathology, seed pathology and bioinformatics while also participating in service to the university.

ISU has extensive shared facilities for biological research, including -omics technology for genetics, genomics and microbiome studies and high-performance computing. The collaborative environment is enhanced by interdisciplinary and disciplinary graduate majors that promote cross-fertilization within labs.

• The successful candidate will have an office and laboratory in the Seed Science Building, which houses the Seed Science Center.
• The Seed Science Center is a globally recognized hub of excellence in seed testing, research, education, systems, and international programs.
• It is a leader in developing science to inform policy to benefit the world seed trade.

The Center is home to the Seed Lab, one of the largest public testing laboratories in the U.S. that has provided accurate and professional seed testing services to growers and the seed industry for more than 130 years.

The Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology serves as home to the ISU Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic, has access to numerous field research facilities, and administers a vibrant and experiential undergraduate microbiology program. Faculty have strengths in extension, teaching, and the scholarship of teaching and learning, and research across the full spectrum from fundamental to applied.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Plath Pathology, Plant Science or a closely related field with experience in the broad area of seed pathology

Preferred Qualifications

• Evidence of strong potential for conducting innovative research in seed pathology that includes the development of diagnostic tests for pathogens
• Evidence for the use of high-throughput sequencing and associated computational pipelines
• Evidence of a strong publication record in internationally recognized journals
• Evidence of strong potential for research mentoring
• Evidence of strong potential for collaborative research
• Evidence of strong potential for securing extramural funding
• Evidence of strong potential for evidence-based, innovative teaching
• Proposed Start Date: August 16, 2027
• Number of Months Employed Per Year: 09 Month Work Period
• Time Type: Full time

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application.

The application should include

• Cover Letter describing the qualifications for the position (2 pages max)
• Curriculum Vitae
• Research Statement detailing experience and future plans (3 pages max)
• Teaching Statement detailing philosophy, experience, and future plans (2 pages max)
• Names and contact information for three references

• For guaranteed consideration, applications should be received by January 4th, 2027.
• Questions regarding this position should be directed to the Chair of the Search Committee, Scott Heuchelin (), or the Chair of the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Steven Harris ().

Why Choose Isu?

Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:

• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date: August 21, 2026

Job Requisition Number: R19814

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.