Positions Available

• Half-time research assistantships: M.S. and Ph.D. candidates in horticultural science can obtain support through the department of Horticultural Science; assistantships are open each semester for qualified applicants; contact Dr. John Dole (john_dole@ncsu.edu); Department of Horticultural Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7609; Phone 919-515-3537, Fax 919-515-7747.
• Postharvest Physiologist
  • Assistant, Associate or Full Professor
  • Available: March 1, 2008
  • 100% Research (12 month - Tenure Track); Department of Horticultural Science; Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) at the NC Research Campus (NCRC), Kannapolis, North Carolina
  • Location: The North Carolina State University, Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) is part of the new North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, North Carolina, a private-public venture. The goal of the FVSI is to conduct advanced multidisciplinary research to enhance the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables to improve human health; increase agricultural production and good agricultural practices leading to a sustainable food supply; and provide scientific ideas and technologies that will contribute to NC’s economic growth. Other university programs based at the NCRC include UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Charlotte, NC A & T State University, and Duke University. Unparalleled infrastructure for basic and applied research including the 300,000 ft2 D.H. Murdock core support laboratory, technical support, and extensive greenhouse and field facilities are available.
  • Qualifications: Ph.D. in Horticulture, Plant Biology or related field with research experience in postharvest physiology of horticultural crops. The successful candidate must have demonstrated research productivity through publication in relevant refereed journals, and an existing record of, or strong potential for, successful grant procurement. It is essential that the incumbent be able to conduct team-oriented research, exhibit leadership abilities, and demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Responsibilities: The candidate will conduct translational research on the biochemical and molecular bases for ripening, senescence and quality changes of horticultural crops in the postharvest environment. The specific research area is flexible, but should focus on understanding the mechanisms that contribute to preserving full bioactive health benefits of fruits and vegetables pre and post-harvest with the ultimate goal of improving produce quality for the consumer The candidate will be expected to establish a rigorous, extramurally funded research program that is nationally and internationally recognized; publish research results in relevant peer reviewed publications; and chair and serve on graduate student committees.
  • The candidate will work within a team of a dozen or more principle investigators ranging from plant breeders to molecular biologists at the FVSI, and with breeders, geneticists and other faculty in Horticultural Science and related disciplines at NC State University. The position is located at the FVSI in Kannapolis and tenured in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University in Raleigh, NC.
  • Salary: commensurate with experience
  • Startup budget: to be determined
  • Application: Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position number 01-10-0713). Attach a cover letter and CV to the online applicant profile, and the names and contact information for at least three references. Inquiries can be addressed to:
    • Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head
      • Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609
      • North Carolina State University
      • Raleigh, NC 27695-7609
      • Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191
      • Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu
  • Deadline: February 29, 2008 or until an acceptable candidate is identified
• Applied Molecular Geneticist for Fruit and Vegetable Cultivar Development
  • Assistant/Associate Professor
  • Available: March 1, 2008
  • 100% Research (12 month - Tenure Track); Department of Horticultural Science; Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) at the NC Research Campus (NCRC), Kannapolis, North Carolina
  • Location: The North Carolina State University, Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) is part of the new North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, North Carolina, a private-public venture. The goal of the FVSI is to conduct advanced multidisciplinary research to enhance the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables to improve human health; increase agricultural production and good agricultural practices leading to a sustainable food supply; and provide scientific ideas and technologies that will contribute to NC’s economic growth. Other university programs based at the NCRC include UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Charlotte, NC A & T State University, and Duke University. Unparalleled infrastructure for basic and applied research including the 300,000 ft2 D.H. Murdock core support laboratory, technical support, and extensive greenhouse and field facilities are available.
  • Qualifications: Ph.D. degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Genetics, Plant Biology or related field with experience in plant genomics and its applications, with emphasis on the development and use of molecular markers for rapid cultivar development. The successful candidate must have demonstrated research productivity through publication in relevant refereed journals, and an existing record of, or strong potential for, successful grant procurement. It is essential that the incumbent be able to conduct team-oriented research, exhibit leadership abilities, and demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills. Postdoctoral experience is preferred.
  • Responsibilities: The candidate will be responsible for the development of a molecular genetics and genomics research program in fruits and vegetables. Research will focus on important horticultural traits that lead to the development of improved cultivars. Traits of interest may include bioactive phytochemical content and nutritional value, stability of health-promoting attributes pre- and post-harvest, disease and pest resistance, maturity, adaptation and yield.  Research topics will include development of tools and technologies for rapid cultivar development such as molecular markers and other appropriate molecular approaches, as well as functional and/or structural genomic studies of fruits and vegetables. Crops of interest include, but are not limited to, small fruits and leafy vegetables. The candidate will be expected to establish a rigorous, nationally and internationally recognized, extramurally funded research program; publish research results in relevant peer reviewed publications; and chair and serve on graduate student committees.
  • The incumbent will work within a team of a dozen or more principle investigators ranging from plant breeders to molecular biologists and serve as a key integrator in the team. The incumbent will also collaborate with breeders, geneticists and other faculty in the Horticultural Science Department and related disciplines at NC State University. The position is located at the FVSI in Kannapolis and tenured in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University in Raleigh, NC.
  • Salary: commensurate with experience
  • Startup budget: to be determined
  • Application: Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position number 01-10-0712). Attach a cover letter and CV to the online applicant profile, and include the names and contact information for at least three references. Review of applications will begin February 1, 2008, and will continue until an acceptable candidate is identified. Minority candidates are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA employer. Inquiries regarding this position should be addressed to:
    • Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head
      • Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609
      • North Carolina State University
      • Raleigh, NC 27695-7609
      • Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191
      • Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu
  • Deadline: February 29, 2008 or until an acceptable candidate is identified
• Leafy Vegetable Breeder
  • Assistant/Associate Professor
  • Available: March 1, 2008
  • 100% Research (12 month - Tenure Track); Department of Horticultural Science; Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) at the NC Research Campus (NCRC), Kannapolis, North Carolina
  • Location: The North Carolina State University, Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) is part of the new North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, North Carolina, a private-public venture. The goal of the FVSI is to conduct advanced multidisciplinary research to enhance the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables to improve human health; increase agricultural production and good agricultural practices leading to a sustainable food supply; and provide scientific ideas and technologies that will contribute to NC’s economic growth. Other university programs based at the NCRC include UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Charlotte, NC A & T State University, and Duke University. Unparalleled infrastructure for basic and applied research including the 300,000 ft2 D.H. Murdock core support laboratory, technical support, and extensive greenhouse and field facilities are available.
  • Qualifications: Ph.D. degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology or related field with experience in applied plant breeding and cultivar development. The successful candidate must have demonstrated research productivity through publication in relevant refereed journals, and an existing record of, or strong potential for, successful grant procurement. It is essential that the incumbent be able to conduct team-oriented research, exhibit leadership abilities, and demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills. Postdoctoral experience is preferred.
  • Responsibilities: The candidate will be expected to 1) develop superior leafy vegetable cultivars (including lettuce, spinach, and/or cole crops) that are adapted to NC production systems, with enhanced nutritional and nutraceutical properties, resistance to major production constraints, high yields, and extended post-harvest shelf-life; 2) develop a research program to understand the genetic control and inheritance of important traits, 3) work within a team of a dozen or more principle investigators ranging from breeders to molecular geneticists and other faculty to develop molecular markers for trait selection and to fulfill the overall mission of the FVSI; 4) establish collaborative partnerships with faculty based at the NCRC, NC State main campus in Raleigh, and the Mountain Horticultural Crop Research and Extension Center in Fletcher, as well as with other universities and the private sector; 5) provide input to NC commodity industries on promising new breeding lines and cultivars, and participate in annual field days and commodity meetings; 6) establish a rigorous, nationally recognized, extramurally funded research program; 7) publish research results in relevant peer reviewed publications; and 8) chair and serve on graduate student committees.
  • The position is located at the FVSI in Kannapolis and tenured in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University in Raleigh, NC.
  • Salary: commensurate with experience
  • Startup budget: to be determined
  • Application: Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position number 01-10-0715). Attach a cover letter and CV to the online applicant profile, and include the names and contact information for at least three references. Review of applications will begin February 1, 2008, or until an acceptable candidate is identified. Minority candidates are encouraged to apply. NCSU is an EEO/AA employer. Inquiries regarding this position should be addressed to:
    • Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head
      • Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609
      • North Carolina State University
      • Raleigh, NC 27695-7609
      • Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191
      • Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu
  • Deadline: February 29, 2008 or until an acceptable candidate is identified
• Strawberry Breeder
  • Assistant/Associate Professor
  • Available: March 1, 2008
  • 100% Research (12 month - Tenure Track); Department of Horticultural Science; Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) at the NC Research Campus (NCRC), Kannapolis, North Carolina
  • Location: The North Carolina State University, Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute (FVSI) is part of the new North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, North Carolina, a private-public venture. The goal of the FVSI is to conduct advanced multidisciplinary research to enhance the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables to improve human health; increase agricultural production and good agricultural practices leading to a sustainable food supply; and provide scientific ideas and technologies that will contribute to NC’s economic growth. Other university programs based at the NCRC include UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Charlotte, NC A & T State University, and Duke University. Unparalleled infrastructure for basic and applied research including the 300,000 ft2 D.H. Murdock core support laboratory, technical support, and extensive greenhouse and field facilities are available.
  • Qualifications: Ph.D. degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology or related field with experience in applied plant breeding and cultivar development. The successful candidate must have demonstrated research productivity through publication in relevant refereed journals, and an existing record of, or strong potential for, successful grant procurement. It is essential that the incumbent be able to conduct team-oriented research, exhibit leadership abilities, and demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills. Postdoctoral experience is preferred.
  • Responsibilities: The candidate will be expected to 1) develop superior strawberry cultivars that are adapted to NC production systems (including protected horticulture), with enhanced nutritional and nutraceutical properties, resistant to major production constraints, high yield, and extended post-harvest shelf-life; 2) develop a research program to understand the genetic control and inheritance of important traits, 3) work within a team of a dozen or more principle investigators ranging from breeders to molecular geneticists and other faculty to develop molecular markers for trait selection and to fulfill the overall mission of the FVSI; 4) establish collaborative partnerships with faculty based at the NCRC, NC State main campus in Raleigh, and the Mountain Horticultural Crop Research and Extension Center in Fletcher, as well as with other universities and the private sector; 5) provide input to NC commodity industries on promising new breeding lines and cultivars, and participate in annual field days and commodity meetings; 6) establish a rigorous, nationally recognized, extramurally funded research program; 7) publish research results in relevant peer reviewed publications; and 8) chair and serve on graduate student committees.
  • The position is located at the FVSI in Kannapolis and tenured in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University in Raleigh, NC.
  • Salary: commensurate with experience
  • Startup budget: to be determined
  • Application: Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position number 01-10-0714). Attach a cover letter and CV to the online applicant profile, and include the names and contact information for at least three references. Review of applications will begin February 1, 2008, or until an acceptable candidate is identified. Minority candidates are encouraged to apply. NCSU is an EEO/AA employer. Inquiries regarding this position should be addressed to:
    • Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head
      • Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609
      • North Carolina State University
      • Raleigh, NC 27695-7609
      • Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191
      • Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu
  • Deadline: February 29, 2008 or until an acceptable candidate is identified
• Tomato/Strawberry Breeder
  • Assistant Professor
  • Available: January 2, 2008
  • 100% Research (12 month - Tenure Track); Department of Horticultural Science; Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center, Fletcher, North Carolina
  • Qualifications: Ph.D. degree in Horticulture or related field with experience in applied plant breeding and cultivar development. The successful candidate will have demonstrated research productivity through publication in relevant refereed journals. Post-doctoral experience, a record of successful grant procurement, and experience with molecular techniques (e.g. molecular markers) are preferred. The candidate must have a positive attitude for teamwork, leadership abilities, and effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Responsibilities: The successful candidate will assume responsibility for an established and highly productive tomato breeding program based at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center in Fletcher, North Carolina. Through plant patents with the private seed sector, this program has released numerous fresh market varieties and lines that are widely grown throughout the southeast. The candidate will also establish a strawberry breeding program for the upper piedmont and mountain regions of western NC to develop strawberry varieties adapted to plasticulture, high tunnels, and other production systems, primarily for fresh markets. This work will be done in collaboration with the strawberry/blueberry breeder based in Raleigh.
  • The candidate will be expected: 1) to use conventional and molecular methods to develop improved lines and varieties with broad adaptation, resistance to major diseases, high yields, and excellent fruit quality; 2) develop a research program to understand the genetic control and inheritance of important traits, including the development of molecular markers to facilitate selection; 3) establish collaborative partnerships with plant breeders and other faculty in the Horticultural Science, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Food Science, Soils, Biochemistry, and Genetics Departments, as well as with other universities and the private sector; 4) provide input to NC commodity industries on promising new varieties and lines, and participate in annual field days and commodity meetings; 5) establish a rigorous, nationally recognized, extramurally funded research program; 6) publish research results in relevant peer reviewed publications; and 7) serve on graduate student committees.
  • Salary: commensurate with experience
  • Startup budget: to be determined
  • Application: Applicants should submit a complete vita, copies of university transcripts, names and contact information for three professional references, and a statement describing the applicant’s interests and goals as they relate to the establishment of a modern plant breeding program to:
    • Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head
      • Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609
      • North Carolina State University
      • Raleigh, NC 27695-7609
      • Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191
      • Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu
  • Deadline: October 1, 2007
• Postharvest Research Associate
  • Department of Horticultural Science, NC State University, 100% non-tenure track research associate position based at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center in Fletcher, North Carolina. The primary focus of the position is on apples. The apple industry in NC is transitioning away from production of low-value processed products towards high value, fresh market wholesale and retail fruit. Responsibilities include research and technology development on best management practices for management of fruit maturity and postharvest handling systems to deliver a quality fresh product to the consumer. Work will be done on whole and packaged sliced apples. Depending on need and funding availability, the position will also conduct postharvest research on other horticultural fruit and vegetable products.
  • Qualifications: Master's degree in horticulture or plant science with three years of experience in applied postharvest physiology research. The position requires the development of a field and laboratory research program. Computer literacy, grant writing, and a high motivation to work within a cooperative team of faculty, staff, students, growers, and processors. Valid NCDL required.
  • Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position number 01-10-0708). Attach a cover letter and CV to the online applicant profile. Additionally, copies of official transcripts and letters of recommendation from at least three sources should be mailed to: Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head, Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7609; Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191; Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu Review of applications will begin November 20, 2007, or until an acceptable candidate is identified. EEO/AA employer. NC State welcomes all applicants without regard to sexual orientation.
• Research Associat, Floriculture Postharvest
  • Department of Horticultural Science, North Carolina State University. The individual in this program will be responsible for conducting research on cut flower postharvest. Studies will be conducted primarily on roses but other species will be investigated as well. The individual in this position will be expected to interact with plant physiologists, biochemists, and molecular biologists as part of a multi-investigator effort. Additional responsibilities include quarterly reporting to the funding agency, supervision of seasonal employees, statistical analysis and publication of project results, and participation in other project activities.
  • Minimum Qualifications: MS (PhD preferred) in horticultural science, plant science or related fields; experience in research project management, statistical analysis, and laboratory plant science is essential; ability to work independently and cooperatively with other staff; good organizational skills; and demonstrated ability in written and verbal communication. Salary: $36,000 to 40,000 per year, plus benefits, commensurate with qualifications.
  • Project term: Position available immediately. This is a grant-funded position for about two years. Applicants should apply online at https://jobs.ncsu.edu (reference position 01-10-0709). Attach a cover letter and CV (including list of publications) to the online applicant profile. Additionally, copies of official transcripts and the names and contact information for three reference sources should be mailed to: Dr. Julia Kornegay, Professor and Head, Department of Horticultural Science, Box 7609, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7609; Phone: 919-515-3131; Fax: 919-513-3191; Email: julia_kornegay@ncsu.edu Review of applications will begin November 15, 2007, or until an acceptable candidate is identified. EEO/AA employer. NC State welcomes all applicants without regard to sexual orientation.
• EXTENSION ASSOCIATE FOR FOOD SAFETY
  • Cooperative Extension at North Carolina State University. A Master’s in horticulture, nutrition, family and consumer science, food science or closely related field is required, but a Ph.D. is preferred, with specialization in agricultural food safety. Practical experience in food safety and HAACP programs for agricultural workers is strongly preferred. A valid driver’s license is required.
  • The position is based at the new state of the art, multi-institutional North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis, North Carolina. The successful candidate must be able to effectively develop and clearly deliver research-based information through extension educational programs for county extension agents and existing and potential lettuce and small fruit growers. The position will be a critical link between the industry and the university and will serve as a member of the College of Agriculture and Life Science’s multi-disciplinary vegetable and fruit extension and research teams addressing integrated efforts in horticulture, plant pathology, family and consumer sciences, food science and economics. The position will report to the Department Head or Program Leader with whom the successful candidate’s expertise is most aligned.
  • The responsibilities of the position include: 1) provide food safety training and support for extension agents in counties where crop inputs for bagged salads small fruits are commercially grown or where there is an opportunity for their production; 2) provide agents, growers, and potential growers with technical assistance to meet HAACP, GAP, GMP guidelines, as well as additional ones imposed by buyers. 3) develop new and update existing state and regional food safety guides and tools both electronically and in print; 4) cooperate in relevant research projects, field days, annual meetings and farm and processing demonstrations; 5) provide reports on marketing impacts and program accomplishments; 6) obtain grants and gifts to enhance the program; 7) provide assertive leadership in ensuring that North Carolina retains an excellent reputation for safe, health, and nutritious produce, and 8) work as a team member with other field and campus faculty to develop and deliver a comprehensive and coordinated educational program related to food safety production and marketing practices.
  • Send the following information electronically via the NCSU Employment Opportunity Website at:  http://jobs.ncsu.edu
    • EPA Applicant Profile
    • Cover Letter
    • C.V./Resume
  • Please send via hard copy mail copies of transcripts and three letters of recommendation to:
    • Dr. Edwin Jones
    • Associate Director and State Program Leader, ANR, CRD
    • NC Cooperative Extension Service
    • Box 7653 NCSURaleigh, NC 27695-7653
  • Position closes March 9 or whenever a suitable candidate is identified.
• North Carolina State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. NCSU welcomes all individuals without regard to sexual orientation.  Documentation of identity and employability of the applicant will be required before the hiring process can be finalized.  Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should contact the above individual.