Post-Doctoral Associate AD - Mitchum 1 & 2

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 42,728 - 52,223; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia seeks a Post‑Doctoral Associate to advance understanding of the molecular basis of plant‑nematode interactions, with an emphasis on nematode effector biology. The role involves independent and collaborative research in plant–microbe systems within the CAES‑Plant Pathology group in Athens Area.

Responsibilities include conducting molecular research, managing cultures, data analysis, reporting grant updates, presenting results at meetings, and mentoring undergraduate

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular nematology, molecular plant‑microbe interactions, or related field earned within the past four years.
• Experience in molecular plant‑microbe interactions, nematode biology, stats and bioinformatics, and plant transformation.
• Peer‑reviewed publication record and strong written English.

Responsibilities

• Carry out research on molecular basis of plant‑nematode interactions and characterize gene functions in crop and model systems.
• Care for plants and pathogen cultures and manage nematode cultures as needed.
• Collect data from experiments and analyze it with the PI and team.
• Summarize results, prepare updates, and report to grant agencies.
• Present findings at local, national, and international meetings.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate researchers in the lab.

Skills

English proficiency

Bioinformatics analyses

Plant transformation

Education

Ph.D. in molecular nematology or related field

Job description

Position Title

Post-Doctoral Associate AD - Mitchum 1 & 2

Department

CAES-Plant Pathology

Location

Athens Area

Employment Type

Employee (Full Time)

Salary

$47,476

Start Date

09/15/2022

Job Summary

This position seeks to understand the molecular basis of plant-nematode interactions, with an emphasis in nematode effector biology.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the molecular basis of plant-nematode interactions (70%) – carry out research to identify nematode genes important for parasitism and overcoming host plant resistance, characterize host target genes, handle and analyze genomic and transcriptomic datasets, clone candidate genes, and use molecular and genetic approaches to characterize gene functions in nematode parasitism in crop and model plant systems.
• Care for plants and/or pathogen cultures (5%) – manage cultures, plant, water and harvest seed, and propagate necessary nematode cultures.
• Collect and analyze data (10%) – collect data from experiments and analyze it directly and in collaboration with the Principal Investigator.
• Write and report research findings (5%) – summarize and discuss results in written and oral formats with the PI, prepare research updates, and produce periodic reports for grant agencies.
• Present results to the scientific community (5%) – present at professional scientific meetings at local, national, and international venues.
• Supervise student workers (5%) – supervise and mentor undergraduate researchers assisting with laboratory research.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular nematology, molecular plant‑microbe interactions, plant molecular biology/genetics, plant development, or a related field earned within the past four years.
• Demonstrated knowledge and research experience in molecular plant‑microbe interactions, nematode molecular biology and genetics, statistical and bioinformatics analyses, and plant transformation in either crop or model systems.
• Publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on interdisciplinary projects.

Physical Demands

Light lifting, standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time.

Background Investigation

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, verification of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Candidates may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities. UGA Background Check website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Recruitment Contact

Melissa Mitchum – [e-mail]