Research Associate (Plant Pathology)

Location: Montana, United States; extensive travel throughout Montana is required during the growing season, with occasional overnight, evening, and weekend work.

Company

hirify.global’s Eastern Agricultural Research Center supports applied agricultural research, plant pathology, and outreach for Montana’s pulse crop industry.

What you will do

• Coordinate and conduct field surveys for economically important diseases and insect pests affecting pulse crops throughout Montana.
• Collect, identify, and document plant and insect samples while maintaining accurate digital survey records.
• Prepare reports, maps, and communications for producers and agricultural stakeholders through email, social media, websites, and other outreach platforms.
• Build working relationships with producers, crop consultants, diagnostic laboratories, researchers, and other collaborators.
• Support applied research, diagnostic activities, educational materials, and stakeholder presentations.
• Operate university vehicles and unmanned aerial systems in accordance with university and FAA guidelines.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Plant Pathology or a closely related discipline.
• Experience with plant disease identification, crop scouting, field research, or related agricultural work.
• Independent field-work experience in agricultural or natural-resource settings, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, plus experience with Microsoft Office and basic computer applications.
• Must possess or obtain a valid Montana driver’s license within three months of hire.
• Must obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate if not already certified. Must safely operate vehicles on highways, gravel roads, and unimproved field roads and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Nice to have

• Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or a closely related discipline.
• Experience with plant disease or integrated pest management surveys and agricultural stakeholder engagement.
• Experience with GIS, ArcGIS Survey123, drones, precision agriculture technologies, technical reports, outreach materials, presentations, or supervision of students and temporary employees.

Culture & Benefits

• Professional appointment with a fiscal-year contract and benefits eligibility.
• Training provided in survey protocols, ArcGIS Survey123, drone operations, and communication platforms.
• Opportunities to develop skills in applied plant pathology, integrated pest management, agricultural technology, data management, and science communication.
• Collaborative work with Montana producers, agricultural professionals, university researchers, and other stakeholders.
• Physical work includes frequent travel, uneven agricultural terrain, field sampling, exposure to varying weather, pesticides, plant materials, dust, and required personal protective equipment.

Hiring process

• Submit a resume and cover letter.
• Application screening begins September 17, 2026, and continues until an adequate applicant pool is established.
• This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.