Post-doctoral Associate

University of Maryland • College Park, MD

2d • $62,000 - $70,000

About The Position

The TomatoLab at the University of Maryland, College Park, is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to lead a project characterizing a novel gene that controls flowering time in tomato. The funded project is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year. The position leads a joint effort between the TomatoLab at UMD and USDA ARS, focusing on genetic mapping and functional validation using reverse genetics, including CRISPR-based mutagenesis.

The associate will manage day-to-day experimental workflows, data analysis, and project timelines; plan and carry out functional assays, gene expression profiling, and phenotypic characterization; and coordinate research with USDA ARS scientists. The role also includes guiding undergraduate and graduate students, preparing manuscripts, and presenting results at national and international conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning, gene expression analysis, and functional genomics in plants.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience working with tomato or other solanaceous crop models.
• Strong publication record.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage experimental workflows, data analysis, and project timelines for the UMD–USDA ARS collaboration.
• Plan and execute functional assays, gene expression profiling, and phenotypic characterization of the novel mutant and other genes associated with flowering time.
• Coordinate with USDA ARS research scientists to integrate resources and share findings.
• Co-author peer-reviewed publications and draft manuscripts for publication.
• Help guide undergraduate and graduate students in the lab.
• Present research results at national and international conferences.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree