Post-Doctoral Associate-Dutta

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate bacterial pathogens that affect vegetable crops using cutting-edge techniques like comparative genomics and proteomics. This role involves analyzing the impact of environmental and production factors on bacterial diseases in cucurbits and onions, developing sustainable management solutions, and collaborating with industry stakeholders.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in plant pathology and experience in bacteriology. Responsibilities include data analysis, student mentoring, and assisting with grant writing.

Qualifications

• PhD in plant pathology.
• Experience in classical and molecular bacteriology with working experience in laboratory and field‑based studies is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze the impact of production practices, environmental conditions, and inoculum sources on bacterial diseases.
• Develop and refine effective, field‑ready management strategies to control bacterial diseases.
• Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

Skills

Experience in classical and molecular bacteriology

Ability to analyze and synthesize research data

Familiarity with comparative genomics

Education

PhD in plant pathology

Job description

Position Summary

The Postdoctoral Researcher will investigate bacterial pathogens affecting vegetable crops—particularly cucurbits, onions, and brassicas—using comparative genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics to identify virulence factors and develop practical diagnostic and resistance‑screening tools. This role will evaluate how production practices, environmental conditions, and inoculum sources influence disease outbreaks, and assess cultural strategies that suppress pathogens while supporting beneficial microflora. The researcher will also develop and optimize environmentally and economically sustainable disease‑management solutions, engage with industry stakeholders, contribute to student mentoring, support grant development, maintain accurate research records, analyze and synthesize data, present findings at professional meetings, publish manuscripts, and assist with routine bacterial disease diagnosis.

Responsibilities

• Analyze the impact of production practices, environmental conditions, and inoculum sources on the occurrence and severity of bacterial diseases in vegetable crops.
• Identify key risk factors and interactions that contribute to disease outbreaks in cucurbits, onions, and related vegetables.
• Generate data to inform and improve management strategies for reducing bacterial disease incidence under diverse field conditions.
• Develop and refine effective, field‑ready management strategies to control bacterial diseases in cucurbits and onions.
• Optimize integrated approaches that balance environmental sustainability with economic feasibility for growers.
• Extend and translate research findings into practical recommendations and tools for industry adoption and field implementation.
• Apply comparative genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics to identify key virulence factors in bacterial pathogens affecting cucurbits and onions.
• Develop and validate practical, rapid diagnostic tools for accurate detection of bacterial pathogens in research and field settings.
• Design and implement phenotypic screening methods to evaluate host resistance and support breeding and disease‑management efforts.
• Collaborate with industry stakeholders and partners to align research with practical needs and support technology transfer.
• Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate students while maintaining accurate research records and documentation.
• Analyze and synthesize research data and communicate findings through presentations at scientific and industry meetings.
• Assist PI in writing competitive federal grant proposals.

Qualifications

• PhD in plant pathology.
• Experience in classical and molecular bacteriology with working experience in laboratory and field‑based studies is preferred.

Physical Demands

• Light lifting.
• Standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time.

Security & Background Check

Security Access: Yes.

Background Investigation Policy: 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. Applicants may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities.

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, 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 ([e-mail]).