Post-Doctoral Associate - Chowdhury

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 43,200 - 52,800; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Post-Doctoral Associate in the Chowdhury lab within CAES-Plant Pathology to advance nematology research on plant-parasitic nematodes affecting Georgia crops.

The role emphasizes molecular diagnostics (PCR/qPCR/RPA), data analysis, manuscript preparation, and supervision of graduate students and staff; strong communication and collaboration are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related sciences.
• Experience in molecular biology (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, qPCR, phylogenetic analysis, etc.).
• Peer-reviewed publication record; experience in statistical analysis; good oral and written communication.

Responsibilities

• Identify nematode populations to species level using molecular diagnostic methods (PCR, qPCR, RPA, etc.).
• Lead data collection and analysis; prepare original research and review manuscripts for publication.
• Assist in preparing research grant proposals and present results at local and national conferences.
• Supervise/train graduate students and student workers in molecular DNA-based techniques.

Skills

Molecular biology

Statistical analysis

Oral and written communication

Publication record

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related sciences

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Phylogenetic analysis

Nucleic acid extraction

Job description

Posting Information

Posting Number: G/R19711P

Working Title: Post-Doctoral Associate - Chowdhury

Department: CAES-Plant Pathology

About the University

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine. (https://www.uga.edu/)

Employment Details

Employment Type: Employee

Advised Salary: $48,000

Anticipated Start Date: 12/01/2022

Posting Date: 11/03/2022

Open Until Filled: Yes

Location

Location of Vacancy: Tifton Area

How to Apply

Special instructions to applicants: Interested candidates should provide CV, a short 1-page cover letter, and three professional references. For full consideration, applicants should email Dr. Intiaz Amin Chowdhury at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Statement

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, or 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 at [e-mail].

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Responsibilities

• Identify nematode populations to species level using molecular diagnostic methods (PCR, qPCR, RPA, etc.) and conduct research toward molecular characterization of newly detected nematode species, utilize state‑of‑the‑art technologies such as high‑throughput phenotyping, GWAS, and gene mapping, and conduct laboratory research toward management of PPN. (40%)
• Take a leadership role in data collection, data analysis, compiling original research and review manuscripts for publication in appropriate journals, assist Dr. Chowdhury in preparing research grant proposals, and present results at local and national conferences. (40%)
• Help Dr. Chowdhury’s nematology team in greenhouse and field trails and supervise/train graduate students and student workers on molecular DNA‑based techniques. (15%)
• Help establish a laboratory environment conducive to efficient nematology research work by organizing existing supplies and equipment while helping to procure new equipment and supplies. (5%)

Position Summary

The post‑doctoral researcher is expected to conduct research toward management and diagnostics of plant‑parasitic nematodes (PPN) infesting vegetable and cotton fields of Georgia. Primary responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to, identifying nematode populations to species level using molecular diagnostic methods (PCR, qPCR, RPA, etc.), conducting research toward molecular characterization of newly detected nematode species, utilizing state‑of‑the‑art technologies such as high‑throughput phenotyping, GWAS, and gene mapping, and conducting laboratory research toward management of PPN. Additionally, the successful candidate is expected to take a leadership role in data collection, data analysis, compiling original research and review manuscripts for publication in appropriate journals, assist Dr. Chowdhury in preparing research grant proposals, and present results at local and national conferences. Other duties may include helping Dr. Chowdhury’s nematology team in greenhouse and field trails and supervise/train graduate students and student workers on molecular DNA‑based techniques. The incumbent is also expected to help establish a laboratory environment conducive to efficient nematology research work by organizing existing supplies and equipment while helping to procure new equipment and supplies.

Qualifications

The candidate must have a PhD in Plant Pathology, Nematology, or related sciences. Other required skills/knowledge include experience in molecular biology (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, qPCR, phylogenetic analysis, etc.), peer‑review journal publication record, experience in statistical analysis, and good oral and written communication skills. Experience working with nematology research is highly preferred.

Physical Demands

Ability to stand, lift, endure outside elements for extended periods of time.

Other Job Details

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No

Does this position require a P-Card? No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No

Is driving a requirement of this position? No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications): Yes

Classification Title: Post-Doctoral Associate AD

FLSA: Exempt

FTE: 1.00

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job‑based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable.

Contact Details

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name: Initaz Chowdhury

Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone: [phone]