Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Prosser, WA

11d • 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 identifying pathogens associated with the Ascochyta blight complex on winter pea and managing these pathogens through genetic resistance. The work includes field and greenhouse studies screening genotyped pea lines for resistance to pathogens in the complex and using genome-wide association mapping to identify potential candidate genes associated with tolerance or resistance.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with USDA-ARS in Prosser. The candidate must be willing to travel independently to research sites. The appointment is initially for one year and may be renewed annually depending on performance, the need for an extension, and funding availability. This is a full-time, temporary, overtime-eligible position, with an expected appointment from November 16, 2026, through November 15, 2027.

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 applicable university and departmental driving requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Proven 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.
• Investigate management of the pathogens through genetic resistance.
• Conduct field and greenhouse studies screening genotyped pea lines for resistance to pathogens in the complex.
• Use genome-wide association mapping to identify potential candidate genes associated with tolerance or resistance.
• Collaborate with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with USDA-ARS in Prosser.
• 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

What This Job Offers

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