Postdoctoral Scholar - Plant Genetic Improvement

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Plant Genetic Improvement. The role involves conducting research on genetic improvement of Theobroma cacao as part of an interdisciplinary team within the Department of Plant Science.

Ideal candidates have a Ph.D. in plant sciences or related fields and demonstrated experience in statistical analysis, data management, and scientific communication.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding, or related disciplines.
• Evidence of completion of all Ph.D. requirements prior to the effective date of hire, including a thesis.
• Experience with statistical analysis and data management in plant research.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct highly controlled laboratory and greenhouse plant experiments.
• Collect various forms of phenotypic and molecular data.
• Perform statistical analysis of complex datasets.
• Communicate findings orally and in writing and collaborate effectively within a research environment.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Data management

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in plant sciences/genetics/plant breeding

Job description

Application Instructions:

• Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State student (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Position Overview

The laboratory of Mark Guiltinan and Siela Maximova in the Department of Plant Science at The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA seeks a highly motivated scientist for the position of Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Plant Genetic Improvement. The role involves conducting research on genetic improvement of Theobroma cacao (the chocolate tree) as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct highly controlled laboratory and greenhouse plant experiments.
• Collect various forms of phenotypic and molecular data.
• Perform statistical analysis of complex datasets.
• Communicate findings orally and in writing and collaborate effectively within a research environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding, or related disciplines.
• Evidence of completion of all Ph.D. requirements prior to the effective date of hire, including a thesis.
• Experience with statistical analysis and data management in plant research.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted electronically at https://hr.psu.edu/careers and include a resume that details educational background, publications, and work experience (Ph.D. thesis and beyond), as well as a brief statement of research interests and goals. Please also provide contact information for at least three references.

Background Checks and Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page).

EEO and Equal Opportunity Statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

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