Postdoctoral Scientist – Plant Pathology: The Valley Laboratory at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), New Haven, CT, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist position in Plant Pathology and Fungal Biology. The successful candidate will conduct field- and laboratory-based research on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, a broad host-range fungal pathogen affecting economically important dicot crops. This 24-month appointment offers an anticipated start date of May 1, 2026, a competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits.
Postdoctoral Scientist – Plant Pathology and Fungal Biology
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) |
| Laboratory | Valley Laboratory |
| Position | Postdoctoral Research Scientist |
| Research Focus | Plant Pathology & Fungal Biology |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Start Date | Approx. May 1, 2026 |
| Salary | USD 56,982 per year |
| Benefits | Medical and dental insurance |
| Location | New Haven, Connecticut, USA |
Designation
Postdoctoral Scientist / Postdoctoral Research Scientist
Research Area
- Plant Pathology
- Fungal Biology
- RNA interference (RNAi) for fungal disease control
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Molecular plant–microbe interactions
Location
Valley Laboratory
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES)
New Haven, Connecticut, USA
Eligibility / Qualification
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Plant Science, or a related discipline
- Experience with plant pathogenic microbes and/or molecular biology
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Demonstrated research productivity and organizational ability
- Willingness to learn and master new techniques
- Ability to manage and mentor junior lab members
- Valid U.S. driver’s license and/or international driver permit
Preferred Qualifications
- Record of scientific writing with peer-reviewed publications (published or under review)
- Ability to independently design and conduct field trials and/or laboratory experiments
Job Description
The postdoctoral scientist will investigate RNA interference (RNAi) as a sustainable tool to manage fungal diseases caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Research will focus on:
- Intraspecies susceptibility of S. sclerotiorum to RNAi
- Durability of RNAi across multiple pathogen generations
- Molecular modifications to enhance systemic dsRNA activity
- Development of non-GMO RNAi-based disease control strategies
- Integration of RNAi approaches into existing IPM systems
This work aims to advance environmentally sustainable solutions for fungal disease management and global food security.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a single PDF document by email containing:
- A cover letter addressing the required and preferred qualifications
- A CV or resume
- Names and contact information (email and phone) of two references
Submit applications to:
Dr. Nathaniel Westrick
Email: Nathaniel.Westrick@ct.gov
Application review will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.
Last Date for Apply
Open until filled (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
About the Institution
Founded in 1875, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) is a state-supported research institution dedicated to basic and applied research supporting plant, environmental, and human health. CAES employs over 80 full-time researchers across its New Haven campus, Hamden research farm, and Windsor satellite facility, and maintains close collaborations with Yale University and the University of Connecticut.
