TITLE: Research Scientist -Plant Pathology
CLASSIFICATION: Full-time, year-round
LOCATION: Watsonville, California

PURPOSE: The Plant Pathologist will perform research on disease management in organic and conventional berry crops. Develop and perform disease resistance assays to support plant breeders. Diagnose diseases and help with disease problems in our production areas.

JOB SUMMARY: The Plant Pathologist will perform research on disease management in organic and conventional berry crops for growers and nurseries. They will also develop and maintain disease resistance assays to support plant breeding efforts. Diagnose diseases and provide general assistance in our growing areas. Travel to our growing areas and nurseries is required, some international, mostly to Mexico. Interest in IPM or biological control is a plus.

QUALIFICATION: PhD Degree (or MS with experience) in Plant Pathology. Candidates should have a strong background and interest in plant disease diagnosis, IPM, and biocontrol. Must be physically able to work in both field and laboratory settings. Must be a self-starter, willing to travel domestically and internationally, and have the ability to work independently well with growers, team members, employees, and management. Spanish/English ability would be an asset.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
Disease resistance assays: Develop and carry out disease resistance assays for Driscoll’s varieties for the most important diseases, especially considering the future growth in organic production.

Disease Diagnosis: Help Driscoll’s growers and nurseries respond appropriately to problems in their fields by correct diagnosis of disease problems. Carry out and develop new diagnostic procedures and all appropriate record keeping.

IPM, biological control: Work hard to succeed at integrated biological control, especially in our organic programs. Test new products and combinations to optimize the use of “soft” chemicals to support our efforts in organic production systems.

Information Flow and Reporting: Maintain good relationships with peers, managers, subordinates, and outside groups that would include Driscoll’s growers and customers. Write reports in a timely manner. Share relevant data with the proper groups both within Driscoll’s and with growers or others as appropriate.

Team Contribution: Work cross-functionally as needed to achieve Driscoll’s Mission. Partner with others to achieve mutual goals. Be a team player in furthering Driscoll’s Mission.

General Responsibilities: Follow company policies and practices while representing Driscoll’s in an ethical and business-like manner in all interactions with growers, employees, government agencies, customers, etc. Protect Driscoll’s confidentiality and proprietary information and materials. Maintain a safe and professional work area. Perform other duties as instructed by management.