Postdoctoral Research Associate
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 identifying pathogens associated with the Ascochyta blight complex on winter pea and managing these pathogens through genetic resistance. The successful candidate will conduct field and greenhouse studies to screen genotyped pea lines for genetic resistance to pathogens in the complex and use genome-wide association mapping to identify potential candidate genes associated with tolerance or resistance. The work will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with the USDA-ARS in Prosser, Washington. The initial appointment is for one year, from November 16, 2026, through November 15, 2027. Renewal may be considered annually, depending on performance, the need for an extension, and funding availability. This is a full-time, temporary, 100% FTE position and is overtime eligible. The position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship.
Requirements
- PhD in Plant Pathology, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, or a related field.
- Demonstrated expertise in molecular genetics.
- Experience isolating and identifying fungi from plant tissues.
- Experience scoring plants for disease resistance.
- Experience conducting genome-wide association studies and analyzing mapping results.
- Must have, or be able to obtain by the time of hire, a valid driver’s license and meet requirements under SPPM 7.10 and departmental driving standards.
- Willingness to travel independently to research sites.
Nice To Haves
- Expertise in molecular characterization of pathogens.
- Experience screening plant germplasm for resistance to plant pathogens.
- Experience conducting genome-wide association studies.
- 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.
- Publication experience.
Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research identifying pathogens associated with the Ascochyta blight complex on winter pea.
- Research management of Ascochyta blight complex pathogens through genetic resistance.
- Conduct field and greenhouse studies screening genotyped pea lines for genetic resistance to pathogens in the complex.
- Use genome-wide association mapping to identify potential candidate genes associated with tolerance or resistance.
- Collaborate with the USDA-ARS Research Plant Pathologist in Prosser, Washington.
- Travel independently to research sites throughout the study.
Benefits
- Paid sick leave
- Paid 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
