Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Prosser, WA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Washington State University’s Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington, is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate in viticulture to independently investigate the usefulness of proximal sensors for predicting grape leaf tissue nutrient and water status. The position involves field and greenhouse research and collaboration with USDA-ARS researchers, using USDA-ARS facilities and instruments. The appointment is temporary, full-time (100% FTE), overtime eligible, and expected to run from April 1, 2027, through March 31, 2028. It may be renewed annually depending on performance, the need for an extension, and funding availability.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated expertise in plant physiology or a related field, evidenced through publications, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. The role requires working under field conditions and traveling independently during the study. The position is based at WSU’s Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington. The annual salary is $62,232. Work visa sponsorship may be available. A background check is required.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, Plant Biology, Botany, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Ability to work under field conditions.
• Must have, or be able to obtain by the time of hire, a valid driver’s license and meet applicable university and departmental driving standards.
• Must meet requirements to obtain and maintain access to USDA-ARS vehicles, facilities, and equipment required for the position.
• Demonstrated expertise in plant physiology or a related field through publications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to conduct greenhouse and field-based research and travel independently.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in plant physiology, ecophysiology, plant water relations, plant nutrition, viticulture, remote sensing, or field-based research with grapevines or other perennial fruit species.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent data handling and statistical analysis skills.
• Ability to work well in a multicultural team setting.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on the usefulness of proximal sensors for predicting grape leaf tissue nutrient and water status.
• Participate in field and greenhouse experimental design.
• Correlate soil and grape leaf nutrient and water status measurements with sensor responses.
• Develop industry guidelines for using proximal sensors in vineyard settings.
• Conduct greenhouse and field-based research.
• Travel independently throughout the course of the study.
• Work with USDA-ARS collaborators and use USDA-ARS facilities and instruments.

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 benefits
• Deferred compensation
• Optional supplemental retirement accounts

What This Job Offers

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