Wheat Plant-Pathogen Research Fellowship

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 67,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education seeks a postdoctoral opportunity with USDA ARS at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, IL. You will receive mentorship in plant-pathogen interactions between wheat and mycotoxigenic fungi, focusing on Fusarium Head Blight and its impact on disease resistance and grain quality.

The role involves transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, data interpretation, and applying sequencing technologies and bioinformatics.

Qualifications

• The candidate must hold a doctoral degree in Genetics, Plant Pathology, Plant Physiology or closely related field.
• Degree must have been earned within the last four years or anticipated in 2026.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Engage in mentorship and training in plant-pathogen interactions between wheat and mycotoxigenic fungi.
• Analyze transcriptomic and metabolomic data to study plant defense responses.
• Support wheat breeding strategies to improve disease resistance and grain quality.
• Apply sequencing technologies and bioinformatics methods to research questions.

Skills

Molecular biology

Bioinformatics

Fungal handling

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Doctoral degree in Genetics/Plant Pathology/Plant Physiology

Tools

qPCR

RNA/DNA extractions

Aseptic technique

Job description

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education seeks a postdoctoral opportunity with USDA ARS at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, IL. You will receive mentorship in plant-pathogen interactions between wheat and mycotoxigenic fungi, focusing on Fusarium Head Blight and its impact on disease resistance and grain quality.

The role involves transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, data interpretation, and applying sequencing technologies and bioinformatics.