Post Dococtoral Research Fellow - S. Islam

Position Summary:

Wheat Quality and Cereal Chemistry

The Department of Plant Sciences at North Dakota State University (NDSU) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Wheat Quality Research Program, under the leadership of Dr. Shahidul Islam. This is a full-time, 24-month, grant-funded position focused on advancing wheat quality research through state-of-the-art analytical techniques. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research involving biochemical and rheological evaluation of hard red spring (HRS) wheat, with a particular emphasis on North Dakota production.

A significant component of the role will involve the development of predictive models for wheat quality traits using large and complex datasets. This is a grant-funded position initially offered for two years. Subject to an annual performance review, and continuation for the subsequent year depends on satisfactory progress. The position may be renewed for up to two additional years, contingent upon both performance and the availability of funding.

Primary Responsibilities:

* Conduct comprehensive biochemical, compositional, and rheological assessments of wheat flour and its constituents.

* Analyze data related to protein composition, starch properties, dietary fiber, and gluten network functionality.

* Lead and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in experimental design, laboratory procedures, and data analysis.

* Oversee daily laboratory operations, including maintenance and calibration of equipment.

* Collaborate with national and international stakeholders, including the North Dakota Wheat Commission and U.S. Wheat Associates.

* Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications and present research findings at scientific conferences and industry meetings.

Minimum Qualifications:

* Ph.D. in Cereal Science, Food Chemistry, Bio-chemistry, or a closely related field.

* Demonstrated expertise in analytical chemistry.

* Demonstrated experience in Image processing and prediction modeling for grain quality analyses.

* Strong record of scholarly publications.

* Excellent oral and written communication skills.

* Proven ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and multicultural research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience on hyperspectral imaging-based prediction modeling for wheat grain quality.

* Demonstrated publication in statistical modeling, predictive analytics, or machine learning applications in grains.

* Familiarity with tools such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FTIR, NMR, NIR, Hyperspectral Imaging,

* Farinograph, Alveograph, Extensograph, Glutopeak, RVA, and Dietary Fiber Analyzer.

* Prior involvement in developing regression or classification models for grain quality research.

Advertised salary: $50,000 +/yr

Application Materials Needed:

Applicants must submit:
1) a cover letter discussing research experience and how the stated qualifications are met;
2) a detailed curriculum vitae;
3) list of publications
4) contact information (including phone numbers, institutional addresses, and email addresses) of three professional references from the most recent positions held.

Screening Date:

Review of applications will begin on July 11, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health & Wellness

* 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage

* Choice of PPO/Basic or High-Deductible Health Plan with HSA

* Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date

* Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation

Exceptional Retirement Plan

* Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position

(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.

Time Away & Support

* Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays

* Employee Assistance Program for confidential support

* Supportive work-life balance

Education Benefits That Grow With You

* Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)

* 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents

Additional Optional Benefits

* Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care

* Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)

* Supplemental Retirement Plans

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