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Research Plant Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ProFarm

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

Davis, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant-microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working ...

The Pennsylvania State University

We are a diverse lab team dynamic using a wide variety of microbiology, molecular biology, and plant pathology techniques for authentic research on bacterial diseases of plants funded by federal ...

NCSU

Research Associate

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands ... Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand ...

NCSU

Research Associate

Mills River, NC

Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands ... Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand ...

NCSU

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand ... The College is home to 18 research stations strategically located across the state that enhances ...

The Morton Arboretum

Research Technician Fellowship

Lisle, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

The Research Technician Fellowship is intended to welcome undergraduate students who are interested ... The Plant Pathology Laboratory offers hands-on experience with molecular, microbiological, and ...

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$39.5K

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How much do research plant pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for research plant pathologist in the United States is $82,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a research plant pathologist?

A typical day for a Research Plant Pathologist involves designing and conducting experiments to study plant diseases, collecting and analyzing samples in the field or laboratory, and documenting findings for future research or publication. You may collaborate with other scientists, agronomists, or agricultural extension services to troubleshoot disease outbreaks and develop effective control strategies. The role often involves preparing technical reports, presenting results to stakeholders, and sometimes overseeing research assistants or students. This dynamic mix of laboratory analysis, fieldwork, and teamwork offers variety and the opportunity to make impactful contributions to plant health and agricultural productivity.

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

A Research Plant Pathologist typically needs a graduate degree in plant pathology, biology, or a related field, along with expertise in disease diagnostics, experimental design, and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, microscopy, molecular biology techniques (such as PCR), and data management software is often required, and certifications in pesticide application or biosafety may be beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and written and verbal communication skills help professionals excel in this position. These competencies are vital for advancing plant disease research, producing accurate findings, and effectively sharing results with scientific and agricultural communities.

What is a research plant pathologist?

A Research Plant Pathologist studies plant diseases, their causes, and ways to manage or prevent them. They conduct laboratory and field research to identify pathogens, develop disease-resistant crops, and improve agricultural practices. Their work helps protect crops, increase food production, and reduce economic losses for farmers. They may collaborate with other scientists, publish research findings, and provide guidance to agricultural industries.

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Research Plant Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Plant Pathologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,578 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Research Scientist I, Plant Pathologist

ProFarm

Davis, CA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

About the Company:
ProFarm is an agricultural technology company on a mission to improve the food we eat in a way that benefits the grower, the consumer, and the entire industry. Headquartered in Davis, California, with a global footprint spanning Michigan to Finland, we deliver field-proven, biological solutions for pest management and plant health. By bridging the gap between sustainability and profitability, ProFarm helps modern growers optimize crop yields while protecting the planet. Learn more and join our mission at ProFarm.com.
Summary:
The Plant Pathologist will provide day-to-day leadership in the design, planning, execution, analysis, and presentation of research on plant-microbe interactions and biological crop inputs, working within interdisciplinary teams of scientists. This role will also help implement novel molecular techniques and contribute to discovery and development efforts for biopesticides and biostimulants. We're looking for someone who takes initiative and brings creative, cutting-edge thinking to research questions.
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities:
  • Design and execute bioassay experiments to advance understanding of plant-microbe interactions, at both small scale (lab) and large scale (greenhouse and field)
  • Develop, implement, and train others in fungal, oomycete, and bacterial pathosystems for screening new formulations
  • Work with diverse microbial plant pathogens, with a focus on fungal and oomycete pathogens such as Botrytis and Bremia
  • Apply experimental design optimized for downstream molecular work
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively within and across teams, supporting a small R&D group where agility between projects is essential

Good to Have:
  • Experience with DNA and RNA extractions from bacterial, fungal, plant, and insect tissues, including difficult-to-extract sample types
  • Sample analysis via PCR, gel electrophoresis, and qPCR
  • Microbial identification using sequencing or traditional methods
  • General microbiology and molecular biology techniques
  • Use and maintenance of standard molecular biology equipment

Team & Project Contribution:
  • Maintain microbial cultures and keep the lab clean and organized
  • Prepare test materials and assist other departments with bioassays and sample analysis
  • Stay current with relevant literature and contribute novel ideas for future research
  • Document work to a high standard of completeness and accuracy
  • Supervise interns or junior scientists in data generation and collection
  • Contribute to research team discussions, planning, and evaluation of results
  • Participate in regular team and long-term project planning
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Education:
  • Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or a related field

Experience:
  • 3+ years of industry R&D experience with plant disease bioassays, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation of results

Skills & Knowledge:
  • Strong knowledge of plant pathology, microbiology, and molecular biology
  • Proficiency with statistics, including ANOVA and non-linear regression
  • Experience with MS Office and statistical software such as JMP or R
  • Strong communication skills for working with scientists across diverse backgrounds and specializations
  • Ability to work independently and make day-to-day decisions
  • Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and timelines
  • High attention to detail, with comfort working across interdisciplinary project teams
  • Comfort working in greenhouse and lab settings that may involve soil, dust, and plant material

Working Conditions
  • Primarily lab- and greenhouse-based, with extended periods at a desk and computer
  • Valid driver's license required for occasional travel between work sites (mileage compensated)
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a Qualified Applicator License/Certificate from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation

COMPENSATION:
  • ProFarm offers a comprehensive benefits package including a health plan, medical and dental coverage, life insurance coverage, long term disability and a flexible spending account for dependent care and/or medical expenses.
  • The above is a list of the essential duties and responsibilities for this position. This list is not all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned. This job description may be modified as needed.
  • ProFarm is an equal-opportunity employer. A pre-employment background check will be required.

The pay range for this role is:
85,000 - 100,000 USD per year (Davis)

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