The Burghardt Lab in the Department of Plant Science at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a qualified and motivated Postdoctoral Scholar. The successful candidate will contribute to grant-funded research focusing on genome editing and functional validation of bacterial genes driving beneficial plant-microbe interactions in agroecosystems.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Scholar |
| Research Area | Plant-Microbe Interactions, Microbial Genomics, Bacterial Genome Editing, Plant Science |
| Location | Penn State University Park, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Employment Type | Full-Time, Term Appointment (Initial 1-year appointment with potential for renewal) |
| Remuneration | Competitive salary based on the NIH postdoc scale plus generous benefits |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (Applications reviewed immediately) |
Job Description
The postdoctoral researcher will work on the genetic rewiring of rhizobia-legume interactions to influence competitive fitness inside and outside host plants and optimize nitrogen fixation. Key responsibilities include:
- Identifying candidate genes from ongoing and completed laboratory experiments.
- Generating modified bacterial strains using genome editing and engineering techniques.
- Testing and analyzing downstream effects on both plant and rhizobial phenotypic traits.
- Disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
- Developing independent research directions aligned with the lab’s core focus on legume-rhizobia dynamics in natural and agricultural systems.
- Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in the laboratory.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Microbiology, Biology, Plant Science, Genetics, or a closely related discipline (must provide proof of degree completion prior to start date).
- Demonstrated experience in modifying and manipulating bacterial genomes.
- Experience evaluating performance effects on both plants and microbial systems.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- A valid driver’s license and successful completion of background checks and motor vehicle records checks.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience conducting laboratory and greenhouse trials with plants (such as Medicago) and rhizobia (such as Sinorhizobium, Rhizobium, or Bradyrhizobium).
- Hands-on experience with molecular cloning and genome engineering methods (e.g., Golden Gate cloning, targeted deletions/insertions in Sinorhizobium meliloti).
- Familiarity with functional genomics, bacterial genome analysis, and tagging methods.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis, including generalized linear models (GLMs) and multivariate statistics.
- Track record of first-authored publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application through Penn State’s online recruitment portal:
- External Applicants: Apply directly via the official job posting link below.
- Current Penn State Employees or Students: Must log in to Workday to complete the internal application process rather than applying through the external board.
When prompted to upload your CV, please submit a single combined PDF file named “lastname_Postdoc_BurghardtLab.pdf” that contains:
- A cover letter detailing your scientific interests, qualifications, career goals, and preferred start date.
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for three professional references.
For questions regarding the position, contact Dr. Liana Burghardt at liana.burghardt@psu.edu.
Important Links
For more details and to submit your application, visit the Penn State Job Application Portal.
