Cereal Variety Assistant Professor

THE OPPORTUNITY The Washington State University (WSU) Department of Crop and Soil Sciences (CSS) in the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) invites applicants to lead the Cereal Variety Testing Program (VTP). This is a full-time, 12-month, career-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor. RESPONSIBILITIES The Cereal Variety Testing Program Lead will manage the field, laboratory, and data operations necessary to evaluate commercially relevant small-grain varieties, including winter and spring wheat and barley, across diverse agroecological conditions in central and eastern Washington. The position plays a central role in supporting growers, industry partners, seed stakeholders, and breeding programs through scientifically robust variety performance data and Extension outreach. Primary responsibilities include planning, planting, managing, and harvesting multi-location field variety trials; supervising technical staff and seasonal field crews; and ensuring accurate and timely collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of agronomic and quality performance data. The position coordinates equipment, facilities, and logistical operations associated with field research activities and works closely with WSU breeding programs, USDA-ARS colleagues, other public- and private-sector partners, experiment stations, growers, and commodity organizations. The faculty member is responsible for maintaining program budgets, grant and contract reporting, and compliance with applicable safety and research standards. As part of the Dryland Extension Team, the faculty member will disseminate research results through written publications, online platforms, field days, grower meetings, Extension events, and stakeholder consultations. Additional responsibilities include developing and maintaining strong relationships with producer groups and agricultural industry organizations, participating in advisory committees, and contributing to Extension and outreach materials that support decision-making in Washington grain production systems. The position includes 25% Research and Scholarship, with an expectation to develop and participate in applied research projects that complement and enhance the Cereal Variety Testing Program. The position does not include a formal teaching requirement but may provide opportunities for guest lectures and mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students and interns. The successful candidate will be expected to pursue and maintain extramural funding from the Washington Grain Commission and other sources to support program activities. Annual Salary Annual Salary: $75,000.00 - $90,000 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications Benefits paid sick and vacation leave paid holidays medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents retirement deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts Required Qualifications Earned M.S. in Crop Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field at time of application Ability to perform field and laboratory work associated with production agriculture research, including repeatedly lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds; frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and standing; and sitting or operating vehicles and agricultural equipment for extended periods. Ability to work outdoors for extended periods under variable weather and field conditions and on uneven terrain. Ability to travel frequently to research sites throughout central and eastern Washington, including overnight travel as needed during the field season. Ability to work flexible hours throughout the year as needed to meet field research and production schedules. Must have, or be able to obtain by time of hire, a valid driver's license and meet requirements in accordance with SPPM 7.10 and departmental driving standards. Ability to obtain the Washington State pesticide applicator license within six months of hire. Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. by tim #J-18808-Ljbffr