ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Plant Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

NC State University

$70 - $110/hr

Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands‑on learning opportunities using the latest technologies. Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the ...

New

NCSU

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$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 ...

Vylor, Inc.

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

PhD in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Plant-Microbe Interactions, or a closely related discipline with relevant research experience in fungal plant diseases. Candidates with an MS with specifically ...

NCSU

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands ... Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Structural Pest Management Training Facility, an Insect ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHealthcare JobsDoctors JobsPathologist JobsResearch Plant Pathologist Jobs

Research Plant Pathologist information

See salary details

$39.5K

$82.6K

$116K

How much do research plant pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 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 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.

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.

More about Research Plant Pathologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Research Plant Pathologist jobs?

Cities with the most Research Plant Pathologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Plant Pathologist jobs?

The most popular types of Research Plant Pathologist jobs are:

What states have the most Research Plant Pathologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Research Plant Pathologist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Research Plant Pathologist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Plant Pathologist jobs are:

Research Plant Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Plant Pathologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,578 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Research Technician - Entomology and Plant Pathology

Raleigh, NC

NCSU
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

463rd of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about NCSUexternal

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Posting Information
Posting Number PG194616SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Research Technician - Entomology and Plant Pathology Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with experience ($40,000 - $42,000) Work Schedule Monday - Friday; 8am-5pm Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Entomology and Plant Pathology About the Department
As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a varied portfolio of programs in teaching, research, and extension. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands-on learning opportunities using the latest technologies. Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand Mycological Herbarium, Micropropagation and Repository Unit, Structural Pest Management Training Facility, an Insect Museum with 1.9 million vouchered insects, and the Center for Integrated Fungal Research.
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences houses 12 Academic departments with 294 faculty, 2,891 undergraduate students and 899 graduate students. The College is home to 18 research stations strategically located across the state that enhances our interactions with our farmers, stakeholders, and industry partners. View our strategic plan, Growing Our Future 2023-2030.
NC State promotes an integrated approach to problem solving that transforms lives and provides leadership for social, economic, and technological development across North Carolina and around the world. NC State's land grant mission of teaching, research and service is dedicated to the service of North Carolina and its people. Applicants are encouraged to review the institution's mission, vision and strategic plan, and consider how their background, interest and experience would enable them to support the university.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. 
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Research Technician will be mainly responsible for organizing and maintaining lab procedures and safety measures for the Small Fruit and Tobacco IPM Lab under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI).

Key Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the secondary contact for lab safety measures.
  • Update lab safety plans as directed by the PI.
  • Maintain inventories for the lab, greenhouse, and chemicals.
  • Grow host plants in the lab and greenhouse and maintain plant health.
  • Establish and maintain insect and mite lab colonies.
  • Process samples from lab, greenhouse, and field studies.
  • Identify arthropods under a stereomicroscope.
  • Assist the PI in collecting research data during greenhouse and field studies.

Travel Requirements:
The incumbent will need to travel off-site alone to observe research and must independently be able to travel from location to location without reliance on others or the advanced notice often required of alternative means of transportation
Position is time-limited for up to three years.

Join Us in Building the Future of Sustainable Agriculture
This position will help create a solid foundation for the establishment of the new Small Fruits and Tobacco IPM Lab-a research hub dedicated to advancing integrated pest management through science-based solutions. As a key member of our team, you'll play a vital role in shaping innovative practices that protect crops, promote environmental health, and support growers across the region. If you're passionate about hands-on research, plant and insect care, and making an impact in agricultural science, we invite you to be part of this important mission.
You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition (https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
Other Responsibilities
  • Other duties as assigned.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with insects, mites, plants, and/or microorganisms in field and laboratory settings, including growing plants, taking care of plants, and working in the field with agricultural crops.
  • A strong record of independent research productivity.
  • Small fruits, vegetables, and tobacco production experience, particularly with insect and mite pests.
  • Experience in Plant Biology research, including growing plants.
Required License or Certification
  • A valid driver's license is required for travel and/or the ability to obtain an NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire.
  • A valid Driver's License must be maintained throughout employment.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 06/05/2025 Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.) 06/12/2025 Notice to Applicants
Please note that the work history on your resume must also be included in your application.
Special Instructions
Please include a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for at least three professional references.
Position Details
Position Number 00111492 Position Type SHRA Position Classification Band Title Research Technician Position Classification Band Level Contributing Position Classification Salary Range $ 34,320 - $ 72,734 Salary Grade Equivalency GN06 Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Time Limited Position Yes Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable) 3 years Department Id 111801 - Entomology and Plant Pathology EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
North Carolina State University logo

About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

View All North Carolina State University Jobs

What North Carolina State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply