Asst/Assoc Professor – Extension Specialist in Christmas Tree Production

The Oregon State University Extension Service and College of Forestry are recruiting a full-time (1.0 FTE), 12-month, tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor Extension Specialist in Christmas Tree Production.

Oregon leads the nation in Christmas tree production and sales. The Christmas tree industry is highly competitive, with many issues in need of further research, and many growers in need of educational opportunities. Seedling survival, effects of changing climate on tree survival and quality, disease problems, insect damage, nutrient management, seed orchard development, progeny testing and new species evaluations are all priorities of the industry, as are marketing, labor issues, and tree keepability. The Extension Specialist will be responsible for developing and delivering educational programs for existing and new growers, dealing with a host of issues deemed relevant by target audiences.

The specialist will focus on their areas of specialization, and also interface with other researchers and Extension specialists to foster a comprehensive program in Christmas Tree research and Extension. Specialties could include physiological ecology, silviculture, horticulture, genetics and biotechnology, entomology, pathology, or weed science. The specialist must interact with a wide variety of people and organizations, such as the state, regional, and national Christmas tree associations; state and federal agencies; Extension agents in Oregon and surrounding states; individual growers and suppliers; nurseries and nursery associations; and other specialists.

The specialist will be part of the Department of Forest Engineering, Resources and Management (FERM) in the College of Forestry (COF), and also part of the Forestry and Natural Resources Extension team (FNR) that provides non-formal education on forestry and natural resource issues to a wide range of audiences across Oregon. Expectations are 65% Extension programming, 30% applied research and scholarly outcomes, and 5% service.

Oregon State University is committed to creating and maintaining compassionate and inclusive learning and working environments for all learners, visitors, and employees. We envision collaborative community environments that enhance civility and embrace diversity. All employees are responsible for achieving this commitment. This commitment includes, but is not limited to, complying with Civil Rights and Language Access regulations. This individual will design, develop, and maintain and/or carry out Extension programs to ensure that educational programs and outreach activities serve diverse populations, including those that have been historically marginalized/excluded from participation.

For information on how to apply, visit https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/148996

Application deadline: February 16, 2024 (full consideration), March 1, 2024 (final closing).

OSU is an AA/EOE/Vets/Disabled.