TTU Post Doc Plant Biology, Omics, Bioinformatics

Texas Tech University; Lubbock (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established research institution is seeking a dedicated postdoctoral researcher in plant biology. This role involves conducting innovative research on grapevine interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, focusing on stress resilience and fruit quality. The successful candidate will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, mentor students, and contribute to scientific publications. Join a vibrant academic community that values research excellence and offers a supportive environment for professional growth. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of plant sciences while working in a beautiful campus setting.

Qualifications

• PhD required in project specialization with knowledge of modern research practices.
• Ability to organize work effectively and mentor students.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments.
• Analyze physiological, metagenomic, and transcriptomic data.

Skills

Bioinformatics

Molecular Biology

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Communication Skills

Education

PhD in Plant Biology

PhD in Molecular Biology

PhD in Microbiology

PhD in Bioinformatics

Tools

Microscopy Techniques

Metagenomics

Transcriptomics

Job description

Lubbock

TTU Post Doc Plant Biology, Omics, Bioinformatics

41045BR

Plant and Soil Science

Position Description

Performs specialized Post Doctoral work in the planning, conducting and/or supervision of original research. Responsible for participating in a research project associated with PhD studies and the interpretation of the results of publication. Work is performed under supervision of graduate faculty members with evaluation based on accomplishment of assigned objectives and overall effectiveness of project. May supervise research and student assistants.

A postdoctoral position is available in the Department of Plant and Soil Science, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources at Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX). The Berdeja Lab is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the team and contribute to cutting-edge research in plant physiology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, using grapevine as a model system. The successful candidate will lead projects focused on exploring the impact of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)-grapevine interactions on abiotic stress resilience and fruit quality.

About the University

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is a Carnegie R1 (very high research activity) Doctoral/Research-Extensive, Hispanic Serving, and state-assisted institution. Located on a beautiful 1,850-acre campus in Lubbock, a city in West Texas with a growing metropolitan-area population of over 300,000, the university enrolls over 40,000 students with 33,000 undergraduate and 7,000 graduate students. As the primary research institution in the western two-thirds of the state, Texas Tech University is home to 10 colleges, the Schools of Law and Veterinary Medicine, and the Graduate School. The flagship of the Texas Tech University System, Texas Tech is dedicated to student success by preparing learners to be ethical leaders for a diverse and globally competitive workforce. It is committed to enhancing the cultural and economic development of the state, nation, and world.
About Lubbock:Referred to as the "Hub City" because it serves as the educational, cultural, economic, and health care hub of the South Plains region, Lubbock boasts a diverse population and a strong connection to community, history, and land. With a mild climate, highly rated public schools, and a low cost of living, Lubbock is a family-friendly community that is ranked as one of the best places to live in Texas. Lubbock is home to a celebrated and ever-evolving music scene, a vibrant arts community, and is within driving distance of Dallas, Austin, Santa Fe, and other major metropolitan cities. Lubbock's Convention & Visitors Bureau provides a comprehensive overview of the Lubbock community and its resources, programs, events, and histories.

About the Department and/or College

DAVIS COLLEGE
Davis College includes the departments of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Agricultural Education and Communications, Animal and Food Sciences, Landscape Architecture, Natural Resources Management, Plant and Soil Science, and Veterinary Sciences along with multiple research centers and institutes. The College has over 100 tenure-track faculty, 2747 undergraduate and 519 graduate students, numerous other staff employees, and generated approximately $16 million in extramural research funding.
The Department:
The PSS Department is a comprehensive academic unit conducting research and offering coursework and programs in several areas of plant and soil sciences. There are 36 full-time faculty members and a student body consisting of approximately 180 undergraduate and 140 graduate students. B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. level degrees are offered in Plant and Soil Science. Additionally, distance education courses and four certificate programs are offered. The department is research-intensive, while fostering strong teaching expectations and commitments. Students in the department are educated to meet the challenge of using soil, water, and plant resources for sustainable production and environmental quality.

Major/Essential Functions

* Conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments
* Analyze physiological, metagenomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic data
* Prepare manuscripts and contribute to scientific presentations
* Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and mentor students

Required Qualifications

PhD in area of project specialization. Knowledge of modern research practices, the methods, resources, and standards thereof. Ability to organize work effectively, conceptualize and prioritize objectives and exercise independent judgment based on an understanding of organizational policies and activities. Ability to integrate resources, policies, and information for the determination of procedures, solutions and other outcomes. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and the public. Ability to plan and allocate the workload of employees, providing direct training and supervision as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

* Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, or a related field
* Proficiency in bioinformatics (metagenomics, transcriptomics)
* Advanced molecular biology skills
* Highly organized and detail-oriented
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Excellent written and oral communication in English
* Strong publication record
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
* Valid driver's license and ability to travel to field sites
* Experience with root biology or root microbiome analysis
* Experience with microscopy techniques
* Experience working with grapevine
* Interest in applying fundamental research to agriculture

Safety Information

Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.

Does this position work in a research laboratory?

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

This is a two-year position with an available start date of Sept 1st 2025; however, the start date can be flexible. Applicants must utilize the Texas Tech University job portal to apply. Inquiries can be sent to Dr. Mariam Berdeja ([e-mail]). Please use "Postdoc_Berdeja_Lab" in the subject line.

Required Attachments

Cover Letter, Professional/Personal References, Resume / CV, Transcript

Job Type

Full Time

Pay Basis

Monthly

Pay Statement

Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan. For additional information, please reference the institutional pay plan by visiting www.depts.ttu.edu/hr/payplan.

Travel Required

Up to 25%

Shift

Day

Grant Funded?

No

Job Group

Research Staff

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.