Project Manager

The Opportunity:

Washington State University (WSU) invites applications for a Project Manager to lead innovative research on X-disease and its vectors in stone fruit systems. This role will design and execute laboratory and field experiments to advance understanding of X-disease biology, ecology, and management strategies.

Primary research efforts will include evaluating symbiont-based technologies for potential X-disease treatments, conducting greenhouse trials to assess vector transmission efficiency, and investigating the fundamental interactions between X-disease and its vectors. The outcomes of this work will directly inform disease management practices for the tree fruit industry.

This position requires strong organizational and time management skills to successfully coordinate multiple concurrent projects. The Project Manager will collaborate closely with partners at WSU, the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and other stakeholders, while supervising project staff and ensuring high-quality research execution.

The position is based within the Northfield Lab at WSU and involves collaboration with the USDA ARS Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Laboratory in Wapato, WA.

Summary of Duties:

• Design and implement laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments focused on X-disease and its vectors
• Evaluate novel treatment approaches, including symbiont-based technologies
• Investigate vector biology, ecology, and transmission dynamics
• Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret complex datasets
• Communicate findings through reports, peer-reviewed publications, and stakeholder outreach
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external partners
• Present research findings to industry groups, scientific audiences, and collaborators
• Develop content for web-based extension platforms

Duties and Responsibilities:

80% - Research

• Plan, design, and conduct experiments leading to publication
• Evaluate emerging treatment technologies and vector transmission dynamics
• Perform greenhouse and field trials
• Analyze and interpret data using sound scientific principles
• Collaborate with researchers, lab members, and stakeholders
• Translate findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences

10% - Supervision

• Supervise and mentor project staff and support personnel
• Coordinate project activities and ensure timely completion of research objectives

5% - Outreach and Extension

• Deliver presentations to the tree fruit industry and scientific community
• Develop educational and extension materials for broader audiences

5% - Other Duties

• Support departmental, college, and university initiatives as needed