Postdoc Research Associate

Position Title:
Postdoc Research Associate

Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct and supervise lab, greenhouse and field research on biology and management of fungal diseases of soybeans. Activities will include designing lab and greenhouse research protocols, ordering supplies, establishing and maintaining experiments, and collecting data on soybean disease severity and incidence and plant growth parameters. Laboratory activities will include preparation of fungal growth media, fungal isolations, fungal culture maintenance and storage, DNA extraction and PCR reactions.

In addition, the postdoc will assist with designing field experiments, requesting land for research plots, ordering supplies, preparing inoculum, and facilitating all aspects of planting and harvesting of the field plots. Field activities will include collecting data on plant growth and soybean disease development, as well as collecting soil samples for pathogen and nutrient analysis. The postdoc will also be responsible for analyzing data and compiling research summary reports for funding agencies and research collaborators. This position will also teach MICRO 456: Principles of Mycology in Fall 2024, as well as hire, train and supervise undergraduate student workers and assist graduate students with their research projects.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.  

Required Minimum Qualifications:

PhD in plant pathology or similar field

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3+ years experience with lab, greenhouse and field research on soybean fungal pathogens. 

• Experience with basic molecular biology skills, including DNA extraction and PCR.

• Experience that demonstrates excellent organization, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as working as an effective team member.

Department/Unit Website:

https://www.ppem.iastate.edu/

Proposed Start Date:
June 1, 2024

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 31, 2025

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Our Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans;
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans;
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa);
• Flexible Spending Accounts;
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program;
• Wellbeing Program.

Original Posting Date:
March 19, 2024

Posting Close Date:
March 26, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R14250