Postdoctoral Researcher

Louisiana State University • Madison, WI

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for a USDA-NIFA grant focused on improving the sustainability of rice farming. This grant-funded, non-tenure-track position is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and is funded through March 31, 2028. Continuation depends on job performance, project requirements, and funding availability.

The research focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms and developing high-yielding rice breeding lines with improved tolerance to salinity, drought, and heat stress. The researcher will design experiments to select and validate genomic targets or candidate genes for genome-editing applications to improve abiotic stress tolerance in rice. Additional work includes publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals, presenting results at professional meetings, conferences, and workshops, and mentoring graduate students. Salary and benefits are commensurate with education and experience. The position is available upon completion of the selection process.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong publication record.
• Strong organizational, written communication, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work cooperatively with other lab members.
• Experience in plant tissue culture, genetic transformation, and genome editing in any plant species.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in gene editing in rice is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design experiments to select and validate genomic targets or candidate genes for genome-editing applications to improve abiotic stress tolerance in rice.
• Investigate molecular mechanisms and develop high-yielding rice breeding lines with improved tolerance to salinity, drought, and heat stress.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Present research results at professional meetings, conferences, and workshops.
• Mentor graduate students.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits.
• Multiple medical insurance options.
• Supplemental insurance options, including dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, and long-term care insurance.
• Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan for eligible child-care and medical expenses.
• 14 university holidays per year, typically including a week off at Christmas.
• Annual vacation leave and sick leave.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at LSU System campuses.

What This Job Offers

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