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Plant Pathologist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

LSU AgCenter

Postdoctoral Researcher

East Lansing, MI · On-site

LSUAG PL1 - DPPCP - Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Jonathan Richards (00057607)) Work Location:0302 Life Sciences Building Pay Grade:Other Academic This is a grant-funded, full-time (40 hrs/w ...

SavATree LLC

Plant Health Care Specialist

Waterford, MI · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

A degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turfgrass--or related experience (preferred) * The ability to ...

SavATree LLC

Plant Health Care Specialist

Troy, MI

$20 - $26/hr

A degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turfgrass--or related experience (preferred) * The ability to ...

SavATree LLC

Plant Health Care Specialist

Waterford, MI · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

A degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turfgrass--or related experience (preferred) * The ability to ...

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All JobsPlant Pathologist JobsPlant Pathologist Jobs in Michigan

Plant Pathologist information

See Michigan salary details

$34.4K

$72K

$101.1K

How much do plant pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant pathologist in Michigan is $71,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $72,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant pathologist?

To excel as a Plant Pathologist, you need a strong background in plant biology, microbiology, and disease diagnostics, typically supported by a degree in plant pathology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, molecular diagnostic tools, and data analysis software such as PCR systems and GIS applications is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in problem-solving and collaborating with agricultural stakeholders. These abilities are vital for accurately identifying plant diseases, developing effective management strategies, and supporting sustainable agricultural production.

What is the difference between Plant Pathologist vs Plant Biologist?

AspectPlant PathologistPlant Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Pathology, Ph.D. often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Botany, Plant Science, or related field; Ph.D. for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, agricultural settings, plant disease diagnosticsResearch labs, academic institutions, field studies, conservation areas
Industry UsageAgriculture, plant disease management, research institutionsResearch, academia, conservation, biotechnology

While both roles focus on plants, a Plant Pathologist specializes in diagnosing and managing plant diseases, often working in agricultural and research settings. A Plant Biologist studies plant functions, growth, and development, with broader research interests. The roles overlap in education and research but differ in their specific focus areas and applications.

What is a plant pathologist?

Plant pathologists are scientists who work in agriculture and related fields. As a plant pathologist, you work both in a laboratory setting and out in the field to monitor the conditions that affect plant and crop health. In the laboratory setting, you analyze samples of plants, microorganisms, and other aspects of the natural environment. When there are soil problems or a crop disease, you make onsite visits to determine the cause of the problem and recommend best solutions to treat or eradicate the issue. You must keep up to date with the latest research and innovations in biological and agricultural sciences related to diseases or pathogens that may plague plants. Working closely with biologists, farmers, breeders, and botanists at farms, you create quality control measures and improve practices for maintaining safe environments for the plants and find ways to increase crop yields or develop disease resistance.

What are some common challenges plant pathologists face when diagnosing plant diseases in the field?

Plant pathologists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between similar disease symptoms, environmental stresses, and pest damage, which can all present similar signs in plants. Limited access to advanced diagnostic tools in field settings can make accurate identification more difficult, requiring strong observational skills and sometimes sending samples to a laboratory for further analysis. Additionally, keeping up with emerging diseases and adapting to new pathogens can be demanding, but collaboration with other scientists and ongoing professional development help address these challenges.
More about Plant Pathologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan? For Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Pathologist jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Plant Pathologist jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Plant Pathologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Pathologist jobs in MI? For Plant Pathologist jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Plant Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Pathologist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,974 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher

LSU AgCenter

East Lansing, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.Job Posting Title:Postdoctoral ResearcherPosition Type:Other AcademicDepartment:LSUAG PL1 - DPPCP - Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Jonathan Richards (00057607))Work Location:0302 Life Sciences BuildingPay Grade:Other AcademicJob Description:

This is a grant-funded, full-time (40 hrs/week) non-tenure track position through 08/31/2027. Funding is available for one year, but continuation past the first year is contingent on successful annual review and available funding.

Work Location: Department of Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Position Description: The postdoctoral research associate will be involved in several projects focusing on bioinformatics analyses of whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and metagenomic/metatranscriptomic datasets derived from fungi and plants. The postdoctoral research associate will be expected to lead all data analyses, contribute to the execution of greenhouse/growth chamber experiments, write manuscripts, present results at meetings and conferences, and mentor undergraduates. Prior experience with developing reproducible computational pipelines on a high-performance computing framework, conducting transcriptomic and comparative genomics analyses, and a background in plant and/or fungal evolutionary biology is preferred. Laboratory experience in DNA/RNA extractions and sequencing library preparation would also be beneficial.

Qualification Requirements: PhD degree in biology, biochemistry, mycology, botany, ecology, plant pathology or other related field. Demonstrated experience (publications) carrying out genomic, transcriptomic, or evolutionary biology studies, preferably in the context of plant or fungal biology, is required. Preference will be given to those with a background in the genomics of plants or fungi. Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and a willingness and ability to interact and collaborate with other scientists are essential to the success of the research. A valid Louisiana State driver's license and ability to drive is required at the time of appointment.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: August 1, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and contact information for references. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted. Questions or requests for additional information regarding this position can be sent to:

Dr. Vinson P. Doyle

Chair and Professor of Mycology

Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

302 Life Science Building

Email: VDoyle@agcenter.lsu.edu

Website: www.lsuagcenter.com

Dr. Jonathan K. Richards

Associate Professor

Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

302 Life Science Building

Email: JRichards@agcenter.lsu.edu

Website: www.lsuagcenter.com

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

Additional Job Description:Competencies:NoneSpecial Instructions:

Skills Needed:

Preferred Skills:

Posting Date:July 15, 2026Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some childcare and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):
About the LSU Agricultural Center:

The LSU AgCenter, is one of eight campuses within the broader LSU enterprise (LSU System). The LSU AgCenter includes the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, which conducts agricultural-based research, and the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, which extends the knowledge derived from research to the people of the state. The AgCenter is headquartered in Baton Rouge and has 12 "on campus" academic departments and five regions which are made up of 15 branch research stations and an extension office in each parish. For more information, visit the AgCenter's website at www.lsuagcenter.com.

The LSU Agricultural Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.HCM Contact Information:

Questions or concerns can be directed to the LSU AgCenter Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-2258 or emailed HRMHelp@agcenter.lsu.edu.

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