Plant Pathologist Position Summary We are seeking a Plant Pathologist to lead disease monitoring, prevention, and research initiatives within a controlled setting cultivation system. Reporting to the Senior Manager Plant Science, this role will focus on microbial dynamics, pest and pathogen management, and the development of disease-resistant cultivars in collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities Disease Monitoring & Microbial Analysis

- Conduct microbial identification (Micro ID) in flower products to ensure quality and compliance
- Analyze microbial populations across different cultivation locations and environments
- Track microbial trends over time during the flowering cycle
- Partner with QA to develop reporting frameworks for microbial trends and risk factors

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

- Design, implement, and optimize IPM strategies
- Evaluate the effects of IPM practices on disease incidence and crop yield
- Collaborate with cultivation teams to ensure effective and practical deployment of IPM protocols

Plant Health Diagnostics

- Investigate and determine causes of plant stress symptoms, including yellowing and reduced vigor
- Diagnose biotic (pathogens, pests) and abiotic (nutrient, environmental) factors affecting crop performance

Pathogen & Viroid Research

- Lead HLVd (Hop Latent Viroid) testing strategy, including sampling protocols and best practices




- Study transmission pathways and spread within cultivation systems
- Evaluate genetic susceptibility and resistance to HLVd and other pathogens

Genetics & Breeding Collaboration

- Work with biotech and breeding teams to identify and develop pest- and pathogen-resistant cultivars
- Contribute to research on genetic mechanisms underlying resistance traits

Cross-Functional Collaboration

- Partner with Cultivation to improve plant health outcomes and implement disease mitigation strategies
- Work with Quality Assurance (QA) on microbial monitoring, data interpretation, and reporting
- Collaborate with Biotech/Breeding teams on long-term resistance strategies

Long-Term Objectives

- Maintain low microbial load in flower products
- Minimize pest and pathogen pressure across cultivation environments
- Establish data-driven IPM and disease monitoring systems
- Contribute to the development of improved, disease-resistant cultivars

Qualifications

- PhD or MSc in Plant Pathology, Plant Biology, Microbiology, or related field
- 1-2 years of relevant experience, experience may come from field work through graduate school
- Experience with plant disease diagnostics and microbial identification techniques
- Familiarity with IPM strategies in controlled environments
- Experience with molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR-based pathogen/viroid detection) preferred
- Strong data analysis and cross-functional communication skills

📌 Plant Pathologist (Moncton)
🏢 Organigram Global
📍 Moncton