Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Wenatchee, WA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This position will be working on research to identify the physiological mechanisms affecting carbon movement within sweet cherry trees that are infected by x-disease phytoplasma. This research is critical for the x-disease task force and for an industry that has faced millions of dollars in losses from this pathogen. This position will support the research activities in physiology in tree crops in Washington and to conduct research on plant physiology-pathogen interactions for sweet cherry. The person will conduct research, prepare project reports and presentations for conferences, and write manuscripts for journals. Furthermore, the person will perform professional-level work in scientific research, utilizing advanced skills and knowledge to execute the following tasks: plan field and laboratory experiments based on the season and phenology, run established research protocols, and modify and develop new procedures to achieve research goals. Moreover, the incumbent will collect, process, and analyze field and laboratory data and help coordinate data collection and logistics. The incumbent will be responsible for supervising graduate/undergraduate students, research assistants and hourly employees as needed.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field within 5 years of hire
• 3 years of experience in horticulture
• Demonstrate capacity to write papers independently
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers and software applications
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
• Technical skills in the laboratory, including microscopy and spectrophotometry
• Demonstrated ability to interact with large groups and individuals at all work levels
• Record showing commitment to the previous research groups
• Flexibility in response to issues and opposing points of view
• Demonstrated record of, or potential for, ensuring access and opportunity in all aspects of the educational experience in alignment with WSU's land-grant mission
• Must have, or be able to obtain by time of hire, a valid driver’s license and meet requirements in accordance with SPPM 7.10 and departmental driving standards

Nice To Haves

• Experience with writing papers, laboratory instruments, and field equipment
• Experience working with perennial fruit crops
• Experience with whole tree physiology research methods

Responsibilities

• Conduct research
• Prepare project reports and presentations for conferences
• Write manuscripts for journals
• Plan field and laboratory experiments based on the season and phenology
• Run established research protocols
• Modify and develop new procedures to achieve research goals
• Collect, process, and analyze field and laboratory data
• Help coordinate data collection and logistics
• Supervise graduate/undergraduate students, research assistants and hourly employees as needed

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents
• Retirement
• Deferred compensation
• Optional supplemental retirement accounts

What This Job Offers

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