North Dakota State University (NDSU) invites applications for a funded PhD position in Agronomy under the supervision of Dr. Clair Keene, Extension Cereal Crops Agronomist.
Start date: January 2027 (Spring semester)
Application deadline: November 1, 2026. Completed applications must be received by the NDSU Graduate School by this date.
Research focus
The successful candidate will conduct field trials to identify ways to reduce corn production costs and improve farmers’ profitability in North Dakota. Research will take place at multiple locations during the 2027 and 2028 growing seasons, with a possible extension into 2029.
Qualifications
A master’s degree is preferred, although outstanding candidates with a bachelor’s degree may be considered. Relevant disciplines include:
- Agronomy
- Crop Science
- Soil Science
- Entomology
- Environmental Sciences or Natural Resource Management
Applicants from other disciplines may also be considered based on their background and interest in pursuing a career in Plant Sciences.
A strong interest in entomology is preferred, as the project includes a corn insect pest component.
Funding and benefits
- Full tuition waiver
- Annual stipend of approximately US$28,000–30,000, depending on experience
- Eligibility for NDSU graduate student health insurance upon admission
About NDSU and Fargo
NDSU is North Dakota’s land-grant university, serving approximately 12,000 students and nationally recognised for applied agricultural research. Its Department of Plant Sciences brings together a large community of plant breeders, weed scientists, horticulturists and food scientists.
The university is located in Fargo, eastern North Dakota, along the Minnesota border. With a metropolitan population of approximately 250,000, Fargo offers diverse communities, entertainment venues, shopping, hospitals, three universities and a regional airport.
Enquiries
Dr. Clair Keene
Phone/Text: +1 701-571-5409
Email: clair.keene@ndsu.edu