University of Idaho

Research Faculty - Extension Specialist - Pomology

Location: Parma

Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

Employee Category: Faculty

Pay Range: Commensurate with Experience

FTE: 1

Full/Part Time:

Position Summary:
This is a 12-month tenure track, assistant professor position located at the University of Idaho, Parma Research and Extension Center. The successful candidate will be expected to initiate and conduct an innovative and comprehensive research program focused on enhancing fruit production and management to fit the needs of the Idaho pomology industry by increasing yield, quality, nutritional value, and utilization. The successful candidate will develop and implement a nationally and internationally recognized research program in pomology systems that are well-suited to the regions climate and soils, including:

• Advanced information system technology is utilized to create precise orchard management systems that promote sustainable horticulture.
• Development of innovative utilization of fruit and nuts.
• The study of the biochemistry of fruits, along with the analysis of proteins through proteomics and multidimensional protein analysis, as well as the process of cellular signal transduction, including postharvest.
• Computational analysis, bioinformatics, and crop biology are used to create plant simulation models for research, teaching, and management.
• Phytobiome and rhizosphere biology of perennial fruit crops.
• Functional genomics and molecular genetic techniques to enhance the flavor and nutritional quality of pomological crops.

The successful candidate will develop a comprehensive research program with a variety of outputs including, but not limited to scholarly journals, peer-reviewed Extension bulletins, popular press articles, field demonstrations, and digital information products, and develop a pomology production education program accessible to students, county Extension educators, farmers, Master Gardeners and other interested parties. These outputs should be evaluated yearly to demonstrate the programs impact on the pomology industry. The successful candidate is expected to procure external funding to support the research and Extension program. Additionally, the successful candidate will actively participate in recruitment, advising, and mentoring of graduate students. Relative responsibilities will be as follows: 65% scholarship/creative activities (research), 30% outreach/Extension, and 5% university service/leadership.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in horticulture, pomology, plant science, pomology, or related scientific discipline that demonstrates research competency in pomology production.
• Experience planning and conducting field-based experiments in pomology and reporting results.
• Experience creating and delivering presentations at scientific meetings and stakeholder audiences.
• Experience working in teams and people of various social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.
• Experienced in verbal and written communication.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge of pomology production systems.
• Demonstrated success in securing external grant funding.
• Experience approving and writing research and extension grants.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate in multi-disciplinary team-based research and Extension programs.
• Demonstrated ability to manage staff.
• Demonstrated experience with orchard management and production systems.
• Demonstrated knowledge of fruit quality & nutritional parameters.
• Ability and willingness to work cooperatively and effectively with colleagues and clientele.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• Be able to work outdoors in cold, temperate, or hot weather; able to work in wet or dry weather conditions.
• Be able to lift, carry and/or otherwise move at least 50 pounds.
• Be able to walk distances to inspect and work in field and lab settings.

Be able to work outdoors in cold, temperate, or hot weather; able to work in wet or dry weather conditions. Be able to lift, carry and/or otherwise move at least 50 pounds. Be able to walk distances to inspect and work in field and lab settings.


Required Licensures, Certifications or other


Posting Number: F001235P

Posting Date: 04/01/2024

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions:
Applications received by May 1, 2024 will receive first consideration.

Along with your on-line application, address in the letter of qualification how you meet EACH of the required and preferred qualifications listed. The cover letter should include a summary of past Research & Extension accomplishments, current work, and the future direction and potential of your work.

In addition, your application materials must include names & contact information for at least three (3) professional references, and unofficial transcripts.

Background Check: Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.

To apply, please visit: jobs.uidaho.edu

EEO Statement
University of Idaho is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.