PhD Graduate: Soil Sciences: The Department of Crop and Soil Sciences is offering a PhD Graduate Assistantship focusing on breeding and managing buckwheat to optimize ecosystem services and nutrition. This position is part of the “More Bang for your Buckwheat” project, funded by a USDA-NIFA grant. The research aims to expand organic farmers’ and food businesses’ access to diverse buckwheat varieties, enhancing agronomic qualities and food value. The assistantship includes a stipend, tuition waivers, and health insurance, with additional funding opportunities available.
PhD Graduate Assistantship in Crop and Soil Sciences: Breeding and Managing Buckwheat to Optimize Ecosystem Services and Nutrition
Summary Table
| Position | PhD Graduate Assistantship |
|---|---|
| Department | Crop and Soil Sciences |
| Project | More Bang for your Buckwheat |
| Funding | USDA-NIFA grant |
| Stipend | $33,600 per year |
| Additional Funding | ARCS Fellowship of $17,500 |
| Location | Mount Vernon, WA |
| Start Date | Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2024 |
Study Area
- Crop Science
- Soil Science
- Agronomy
- Sustainable Agriculture
Scholarship Description
The PhD student will engage in buckwheat breeding research and agronomic trials in Western Washington, aiming to leverage the crop’s potential for soil health improvement, weed suppression, and pollinator habitat enhancement. The position is co-advised by Dr. Kevin Murphy and Dr. Deirdre Griffin LaHue and involves collaboration with an interdisciplinary team from several universities and organizations.
Eligibility
- Master’s degree in Crop Science, Soil Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
- Strong interest and experience in sustainable agriculture and crop breeding.
Required Documents
- CV
- One-paragraph personal statement explaining your interests and experience relevant to the position.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Kevin Murphy (kmurphy2@wsu.edu) and/or Dr. Deirdre Griffin LaHue (d.griffin@wsu.edu) by 31 July 2024 with a copy of their CV and a personal statement. Applicants will be screened and invited to interview before applying to the graduate school after the initial review of the applicant pool.
Last Date
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2024
