S/he will establish an internationally recognized research program and national leadership role in urban tree pathology and plant health care that takes advantage of the Arboretum’s strategic location in the Chicagoland metropolitan area. Research topics may include cultural, chemical and biologically based management of pathogens; development of forecasting and diagnostic tools, including molecular diagnostics; predisposition of trees to biotic and abiotic disease development from urban stress and climate change; invasive diseases; and/or related subjects. Expectations include publishing in scientific, professional and popular journals; obtaining extramural funding; working collaboratively and effectively with Arboretum colleagues in research, education, and living collections, and other scientists in the region; contributing to the management of the Arboretum’s 900 acres of plant collections and natural areas; interacting with plant health care professionals; and supporting the Plant Clinic and Plant Health Care Report. The Urban Tree Pathologist will work especially closely with researchers in root biology, soil science, and stress physiology. There are opportunities for collaboration in natural areas research; and academic teaching and advising, with potentially adjunct faculty status at area universities. Modern laboratory space, support staff, and operating budget are provided.

Qualifications: Ph.D in plant pathology or closely related field; training and demonstrated interest in applied plant pathology research; strong background in experimental design; command of modern statistical analytical methods and of appropriate general and specialized software; a record of excellent written and oral communication, and interpersonal skills; familiarity with regional woody plants, diseases and their management, and an interest in root system diseases and symbionts is strongly desired.

Review of applications will begin November 1, 2008, and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, statements of research and related interests and experience, and contact information for three references to: The Morton Arboretum, Human Resources, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 or jobs@mortonarb.org. For further information or to nominate candidates, please contact Dr. Gary Watson, at 630-719-2415 or gwatson@mortonarb.org .

The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre public botanical garden, featuring one of the world’s most diverse collections of woody plants, over 900 acres of natural areas, a comprehensive research library, modern laboratories and herbarium, and outreach education for professional and public audiences. Research at the Arboretum has focused throughout its 85-year history on finding practical solutions to the challenges of selecting and maintaining healthy trees in developed landscapes and natural woodlands, and on communicating results to practicing professionals and general public as well as the research community. The three principal areas of emphasis in Research and related programs are tree health, tree improvement, and woodland conservation. See www.mortonarb.org. Equal Opportunity Employer.