Postdoctoral Research Scholar - DEPP

Postdoctoral Research Scholar - DEPP

Posting Details

Position Overview

We seek a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scholar to conduct research in nematode genomics and molecular plant-nematode interactions. The position will focus on both basic and translational research aimed at understanding root-knot nematode (RKN) virulence, host adaptation, and mechanisms associated with resistance breaking in crops. The major focus of the project will be characterizing virulence-associated genes in M. enterolobii and investigating their interactions with crop hosts, including sweet potato.

Additional projects will involve the integration of multi-omics datasets to better understand RKN-hosts interactions. The postdoc scholar will lead both laboratory experiments and computational analyses. The work will combine molecular biology, nematology, genomics, bioinformatics, and comparative transcriptomics. Depending on research interests and project needs, the successful candidate may also contribute to functional characterization of candidate nematode genes and host-resistant associated genes.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with collaborators at NC State University and other institutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory and greenhouse experiments related to plant-nematode interactions, nematode virulence, and host resistance
• Perform molecular biology experiments, including DNA and RNA extractions, PCR, qPCR, preparation of samples for genomics and transcriptomics analyses
• Conduct bioinformatics analyses using high-performance computing environments
• Maintain clear research records and contribute to reproducible bioinformatics workflows

Other Work/Responsibilities:

• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students
• Lead the preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts and contribute to grant proposals
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings
• Work collaboratively with researchers in the laboratory and with collaborators across NC State University and other institutions

Requirements and Preferences

Work Schedule
- Monday
- Friday, 8am - 5pm

Department Required Skills
- General knowledge of plants and pathogens including nematodes Ability to clearly and concisely present scientific data both orally and in writing Ability to design experiment, conduct independent research, and lead the preparation of manuscripts

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education
- The ideal candidate will have Ph.D. in plant pathology, nematology, molecular biology, plant biology, genomics and bioinformatics, or a closely related field Experience studying plant-pathogen interactions, plant-nematode interactions, or related host-microbe systems is preferred Experience with molecular biology techniques is desirable Experience using bioinformatics tools, and analyzing RNA-Seq, genomics, or other high-throughput sequencing datasets is strongly preferred A strong publication record appropriate to the candidate's career stage is highly desirable Candidate should have strong scientific writing, data interpretation, communication skills, and an ability to work both independently and collaboratively Candidate should be a highly motivated and curious scientist with a strong interest in advancing research on plant-nematode interactions

Recruitment

Recruitment Details

Anticipated Hiring Range - $59,000 - $62,000

Recruitment Dates

Job Open Date - 07/24/2026