Postdoctoral Research Fellow - EIR; Contingent II​/Grant - Funded

Job Title

JR100525 Postdoctoral Research Fellow - EIR (Contingent II/Grant - Funded) (Open)

BSU Hydroponics Lab, JM

Non-Regular Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

05-07-2025

$40,000 - $45,000

The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will support a NASA‑funded hydroponics and aquaponics project with emphasis on metabolomics research in the Bowie State University Plant Metabolomics and Hydroponics and Aquaponics laboratory. The Postdoc will also participate in endophyte research and provide needed support for undergraduate research students in the lab.

• Coordinate all plant metabolomics, hydroponics, and aquaponics research and hands‑on laboratory activities associated with Undergraduate Research Experience (REU).
• Evaluate the metabolome and functional traits of kale and other plants grown hydroponically under simulated microgravity.
• Elucidate the effect of simulated microgravity on the photosynthetic efficiency of kale plants compared with the soil system.
• Conduct endophyte research.
• Help develop a new Plant Science / Smart Agriculture Program.
• Develop HPTLC‑MS and HPTLC methods for analyzing compositional variability of plant samples.
• Collect plant samples globally and process them.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in research.
• Compile technical reports for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Write grants to support the plant science laboratory.
• Write scientific papers from the work performed.
• Assist the PI in running the plant metabolomics, hydroponics, and aquaponics laboratory.
• Perform any other task assigned by the Principal Investigator (PI).
• Perform duties as assigned by the PI, Dr. Osano.

The candidate should have a PhD in Chemistry, Plant Science, or a related field.

• Knowledge of scientific analysis techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, titration, electrochemistry, X‑ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, and thermal analysis.
• Ability to prepare growth media and growth regulators for cultivation of endophytes.
• Skills in plant cultivation and greenhouse work/research.
• Proven track record of scientific publications in high‑quality peer‑reviewed journals.
• Proactive, innovative, independent problem‑solver and excellent team player.
• Supervision experience with students (undergraduates, MSc students, co‑supervision of PhDs).
• Excellent communication skills, able to interact with a multicultural research team.
• Ability to handle a high workload and work under challenging situations.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Experience in grant and research proposal writing.
• Proficiency in English and communication techniques.

Medical, dental, and prescription coverage; long‑term disability; accidental death and dismemberment insurance; life insurance; paid sick leave; annual leave; 10 paid holidays per year; tuition remission; and supplemental retirement.

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