Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Prosser, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Plant Pathology at Washington State University’s Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington, will conduct independent research on root microbiomes associated with dry peas and lentils. The research will identify pathogens associated with the root rot complex and beneficial organisms that may help manage root rot diseases and promote plant health. The successful candidate will participate in field, laboratory, and greenhouse projects to characterize root rot pathogens and identify promising biocontrol or plant-growth-promotion agents to improve commercial production of these crops. The work will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with USDA-ARS in Prosser.

The position is initially for one year and may be renewed annually depending on performance, the need for an extension, and funding availability. It is a full-time, temporary appointment expected to run from November 16, 2026, through November 15, 2027. The position is overtime eligible. The candidate must be willing to travel independently to research sites during the study.

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular genetics.
• Experience isolating and identifying fungi or bacteria from plant tissues.
• Possess, or be able to obtain by the date of hire, a valid driver's license.
• Willingness to travel independently to research sites.

Nice To Haves

• Proven expertise in molecular characterization of pathogens, microbiome research, biological control of pathogens, or field-based research.
• Publication experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and communicate respectfully in the workplace, including in a multicultural team setting.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on root microbiomes associated with dry peas and lentils.
• Determine pathogens associated with the root rot complex and beneficial organisms that could manage root rot diseases and promote plant health.
• Participate in field, laboratory, and greenhouse projects to characterize root rot pathogens.
• Identify promising biocontrol or plant-growth-promotion agents to improve commercial production of dry peas and lentils.
• Collaborate with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with USDA-ARS in Prosser.
• Travel independently to research sites throughout the study.

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Medical insurance for employees and dependents
• Dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Life insurance for employees and dependents
• Disability insurance for employees and dependents
• Retirement
• Deferred compensation
• Optional supplemental retirement accounts

What This Job Offers

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