Postdoctoral Research Associate - Fixed Term

The American Phytopathological Society (APS); East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research program at a prominent university seeks a postdoctoral researcher to explore fungal and oomycete pathogens affecting vegetables and ornamental crops. This role involves collaboration with a dedicated team to develop disease management strategies, conduct trials, and mentor students. Candidates will engage in hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and extension activities to share findings with industry stakeholders. If you are passionate about plant pathology and eager to contribute to impactful research, this is an exciting opportunity to advance your career in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or related field required.
• Experience with qPCR and molecular testing essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments independently in lab and greenhouse.
• Mentor graduate students and supervise undergraduates.
• Design trials and analyze project data.

Skills

qPCR

Molecular Testing

Data Analysis

Pathogen Isolation

Disease Management Strategies

Microscopy

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Pathology

Ph.D. in Agronomy

Ph.D. in Agriculture-related Field

Tools

Laboratory Equipment

Statistical Software

Job description

Position Summary

The Vegetable and Ornamental Pathology Program on the campus of Michigan State University located in East Lansing, Michigan, is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the etiology, epidemiology, population genetics, and mitigation measures of fungal and oomycete pathogens causing disease of vegetables and greenhouse ornamentals.

The successful candidate will work cooperatively with a team that includes the principal investigator (PI), research assistants, graduate and undergraduate students to test and develop new and improved disease management strategies. Candidate must have an ability to work cooperatively in an environment that values and expects collegiality. The candidate is expected to mentor graduate students and supervise undergraduate students.

The position includes applying and then evaluating registered fungicides and biorational products for efficacy against important pathogens affecting a range of vegetable and ornamental host including but not limited to cucurbits, tomatoes, peppers, asparagus, carrots, onions, herbs, ginseng, and greenhouse ornamental crops including geranium, petunia, poinsettia, perennials. Responsibilities will also include screening cultivars to discern differences in susceptibility as part of an integrated management approach. Additional objectives could include evaluating the impact of production practices and the environment.

The successful candidate will work with the PI to design trials, make treatment applications, collect and analyze project data, prepare technical reports and manuscripts, and engage in extension activities to educate industry stakeholders on research progress and highlights. Work will also include performing experiments independently in the lab and conducting greenhouse and research work under sometimes physically challenging conditions.

The individual will also be responsible for training technicians and students in molecular techniques. Compiling and analyzing data and summarizing results for grant reports, manuscripts, extension articles, scientific publications, and PowerPoint presentations is expected.

The appointment will be initially for one year with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and continuation of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate - Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or agriculture-related field.

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or agriculture-related field completed at the time of hire.

A Michigan commercial pesticide license or be able to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

The successful candidate must have proven experience with qPCR. Laboratory activities will include microscopy, pathogen isolation and propagation, molecular testing, assay development, and maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.

Desired Qualifications

Demonstrated use of various diseased plant sampling techniques and capacity to develop molecular biology tools to rapidly diagnose and identify microorganisms causing diseases.

Required Application Materials

Cover letter

CV/Resume

The names and contact information for three professional references

Summary of Physical Demands

Lift and carry up to 50lb bags of fertilizer, seeds, and equipment parts.

Walk through uneven field plots, potentially in inclement weather.

Summary of Health Risks

Wear a respirator (does not include a paper dust mask worn for comfort).

Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate pesticides.