Postdoctoral Scholar – Root Agroecology lab

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Opening: The Fleishman Root Agroecology Lab in Penn State’s College of Agriculture is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to study examine root functions and soil heterogeneity.

Research projects will be determined in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) and be tailored to the scholar’s skills and interests. This will include, but not be limited to, a field-based research study investigating the root systems of a perennial cover crop (i.e., a groundcover) in variable water scenarios shaped by a rainout shelter. Potential areas for research and training are: root ecophysiology, soil/rhizosphere microbiology, fruit crop physiology, soil biogeochemistry, and agroecosystem services.

Location and Compensation: The postdoctoral scholar will work with Dr. Suzanne Fleishman in the Plant Science Department at Penn State University in University Park, PA. There will be ample opportunities to interact with other researchers, including through the Center for Root and Rhizosphere Biology, the Ecology Institute, and the Microbiome Center.

The position will include a competitive postdoc salary with benefits. This is a term position funded for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of refunding.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee soil and plant measurements in field research plots and greenhouses.
• Assess plant roots using physiological and/or molecular techniques.
• Draft and submit manuscripts.
• Actively engage in lab activities and contribute expertise to lab projects.
• Collaborate with the PI to align work activities with career goals through an Individual Development Plan.

Essential Qualifications:

• Applicants are required to have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field and be able to provide evidence that all requirements have been met for completion of the Ph.D. prior to the effective date of hire.
• Field, greenhouse, and/or lab research experience.
• The ability to manage and analyze large datasets.
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• The ability to work effectively both in a team and independently.
• This position requires operation of a motor vehicle as part of job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Desirable, but not Essential Qualifications:

• Research experience in plant ecophysiology, root biology, or soil biogeochemistry
• Familiarity with multivariate data analysis approaches, such as omics or spatial statistics.
• A track record in securing research funding and publishing peer-reviewed research.

Application Requirements and Start Date:

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and the names of at least 3 individuals who could provide recommendations with the online application (https://hr.psu.edu/careers). For more information, please contact Suzanne Fleishman at [email protected] . Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Start date is flexible, but Summer 2024 is desired.

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