Plant Pathologist

Plant Pathologist

Position Summary

We are seeking a Plant Pathologist to lead disease monitoring, prevention, and research initiatives within a controlled environment cultivation system. Reporting to the Senior Manager Plant Science, this role will focus on microbial dynamics, pest and pathogen management, and the development of disease-resistant cultivars in collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Disease Monitoring & Microbial Analysis

• Conduct microbial identification (Micro ID) in flower products to ensure quality and compliance
• Analyze microbial populations across different cultivation locations and environments
• Track microbial trends over time during the flowering cycle
• Partner with QA to develop reporting frameworks for microbial trends and risk factors

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Design, implement, and optimize IPM strategies
• Evaluate the effects of IPM practices on disease incidence and crop yield
• Collaborate with cultivation teams to ensure effective and practical deployment of IPM protocols

Plant Health Diagnostics

• Investigate and determine causes of plant stress symptoms, including yellowing and reduced vigor
• Diagnose biotic (pathogens, pests) and abiotic (nutrient, environmental) factors affecting crop performance

Pathogen & Viroid Research

• Lead HLVd (Hop Latent Viroid) testing strategy, including sampling protocols and best practices
• Study transmission pathways and spread within cultivation systems
• Evaluate genetic susceptibility and resistance to HLVd and other pathogens

Genetics & Breeding Collaboration

• Work with biotech and breeding teams to identify and develop pest- and pathogen-resistant cultivars
• Contribute to research on genetic mechanisms underlying resistance traits

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Cultivation to improve plant health outcomes and implement disease mitigation strategies
• Work with Quality Assurance (QA) on microbial monitoring, data interpretation, and reporting
• Collaborate with Biotech/Breeding teams on long-term resistance strategies

Long-Term Objectives

• Maintain low microbial load in flower products
• Minimize pest and pathogen pressure across cultivation environments
• Establish data-driven IPM and disease monitoring systems
• Contribute to the development of improved, disease-resistant cultivars

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Plant Pathology, Plant Biology, Microbiology, or related field

• 1-2 years of relevant experience, experience may come from field work through graduate school
• Experience with plant disease diagnostics and microbial identification techniques

• Familiarity with IPM strategies in controlled environments
• Experience with molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR-based pathogen/viroid detection) preferred
• Strong data analysis and cross-functional communication skills