Postdoctoral Fellow - Postharvest Pathologist

A postdoc fellowship opportunity is available at the USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS), San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center (SJVASC), located in Parlier, California.

The San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center conducts research to support the sustainability, quality, and productivity of specialty crops industries across California’s Central Valley. The Commodity Protection and Quality Research Unit focuses on improving postharvest quality and reducing losses of horticultural specialty crops caused by fungal pathogens, physiological disorders, and the control of quarantine insect pests that threaten market access and export opportunities.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to support research focused on postharvest disease management and quality of fresh fruits. The position has two primary responsibilities. First, the candidate will examine the susceptibility of table grape breeding lines to gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea, including developing and conducting scalable, high throughput phenotyping methods to assess susceptibility and evaluate established or newly developed screening approaches.

Second, the role also includes developing and evaluating innovative preharvest and postharvest treatments aimed at controlling postharvest diseases of fresh fruits. This position offers opportunities to contribute to high value research that directly supports industry resilience and helps strengthen postharvest disease control.

• Experience in plant pathology — Demonstrated hands‑on experience conducting research on fungal diseases, or in a closely related field. Experience working with Botrytis species or other fungal pathogens such as Alternaria, Cladosporium, Mucor, or Penicillium is a plus.
• Applied research skills — Strong understanding of applied research, including experimental design, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Scientific communication — Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven track record of scientific publications and presentations.
• Sample management — Experience managing, organizing, and archiving biological samples.
• Independent and collaborative research — Ability to conduct research independently and work effectively as part of a diverse research team.

• Anticipated Appointment
  
  Start Date:
  
  September 1, 2026.
• Appointment Length:
  The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of ARS and is contingent on the availability of funds.
• Participant Stipend:
  The participant will receive a monthly stipend. The annual stipend is $75,000.
• Citizenship Requirements:
  This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens only.