Post Doctoral Research Fellow (Liu Lab / USDA Project), North Dakota State University (NDSU), USA

Summary

The Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology & Biotechnology at North Dakota State University (NDSU) is seeking a highly motivated and qualified Post Doctoral Research Fellow to join a collaborative agricultural research program led by Dr. Zhaohui Liu. The position focuses on the genetic and molecular characterization of disease resistance and important host-pathogen interactions in crop plants.

Designation

• Title / Designation: Post Doctoral Research Fellow (Liu/UDA)
• Job Classification: Academic (Broadband Code: 2240)
• Employment Type: Full-Time, Benefited

Overview & Quick Details

Research Area

• Primary Disciplines: Plant Pathology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Molecular Genetics, and Functional Genomics.
• Core Focus:
  • Genetic mapping and cloning of disease resistance traits.
  • Molecular characterization of host–pathogen interactions.
  • Developing and applying genomic tools to support crop improvement and sustainable disease management.

Location

• City/State: Fargo, North Dakota, United States
• Campus: North Dakota State University (NDSU Main Campus / Agricultural Experiment Station)

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Science, Agronomy, Biotechnology, or a closely related biological/agricultural discipline (awarded by start date).
• Research Experience: Demonstrated experience in plant molecular biology techniques, genetics/genomics, and handling plant pathogens.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and oral English communication skills, with a track record of research dissemination (e.g., peer-reviewed publications).
• Work Style: Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in fine mapping, gene cloning, bioinformatic analysis of NGS data, or marker-assisted selection.
• Experience managing greenhouse and field disease evaluation trials.
• Mentorship experience guiding graduate and undergraduate student researchers.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

• Research & Experimentation: Design and execute high-quality laboratory, greenhouse, and growth-chamber experiments focusing on plant-pathogen interactions and resistance mechanisms.
• Molecular & Genomic Analysis: Perform DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, sequencing library preparation, marker development, and bioinformatic analyses.
• Data Management & Dissemination: Analyze experimental datasets, maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, and prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Presentations: Present research findings at institutional seminars, regional grower meetings, and national/international scientific conferences.
• Laboratory Operations & Mentorship: Assist with general lab operations, biosafety compliance, and mentoring graduate/undergraduate students in standard protocols.

How to Apply

1. Visit the North Dakota University System (NDUS) Recruiting Portal or the NDSU Employment Page.
2. Search for Job ID 2959765.
3. Create an account or sign in to complete the online application.
4. Required Application Materials to Upload:
   • A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
   • A Cover Letter / Letter of Application outlining research experience, career interests, and suitability for the position.
   • Contact Information for Three (3) Professional References (names, affiliations, email addresses, and phone numbers).
   • Unofficial transcripts of graduate coursework (official transcripts required upon hire).

Last Date to Apply

• Closing Date: Open Until Filled
• Note: Review of applications begins immediately. Early submission is strongly encouraged for full consideration.

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