Washington State University
3 days ago
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Pathology and Genetic Resistance to Ascochyta Blight in Winter Pea Washington State University in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Molecular Biology
Funding
Full-time, 100% FTE temporary employee position with an annual salary of $62,232–$66,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Washington State University provides paid sick and vacation leave, paid holidays, medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and deferred compensation benefits. The appointment is initially for one year, from November 16, 2026 through November 15, 2027, with renewal dependent on performance, extension needs, and available funding.
Deadline
Nov 11, 2026
Country
United States
University
Washington State University
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About this position
Washington State University is hiring a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Plant Pathology at the Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington, USA.
The researcher will investigate pathogens associated with the Ascochyta blight complex affecting winter pea and develop management strategies based on genetic resistance. Work will include field and greenhouse screening of genotyped pea lines, pathogen isolation and identification from plant tissues, disease-resistance scoring, molecular genetics, and genome-wide association mapping to identify candidate genes linked to tolerance or resistance. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist at the USDA Agricultural Research Service in Prosser.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Plant Pathology, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, or a related field. Experience with molecular characterization of pathogens, plant germplasm screening, fungal identification, disease-resistance assessment, genome-wide association studies, and analysis of mapping results is preferred. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaborative skills are valued, and independent travel to research sites is required.
The appointment is initially for one year, from November 16, 2026 to November 15, 2027, with possible annual renewal subject to performance and funding. The salary is $62,232–$66,000 per year, with comprehensive employee benefits. This position does not offer work visa sponsorship.
Applications must include a resume and cover letter and be submitted online by November 11, 2026. Questions may be directed to [email protected].
Funding details
Full-time, 100% FTE temporary employee position with an annual salary of $62,232–$66,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Washington State University provides paid sick and vacation leave, paid holidays, medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and deferred compensation benefits. The appointment is initially for one year, from November 16, 2026 through November 15, 2027, with renewal dependent on performance, extension needs, and available funding.
What's required
Applicants must hold a PhD in Plant Pathology, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, or a related field. A valid driver’s license must be held or obtainable by the time of hire, and candidates must meet Washington State University and departmental driving requirements. Preferred qualifications include expertise in molecular characterization of pathogens, isolating and identifying fungi from plant tissues, screening plant germplasm for resistance to plant pathogens, scoring plants for disease resistance, conducting genome-wide association studies, and analyzing mapping results. Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, collaboration, and respectful communication skills in a multicultural team setting are desired. Candidates must be willing to travel independently to research sites. The position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship.
How to apply
Apply online through the Washington State University Workday job portal before 11:59 p.m. on November 11, 2026. Upload a resume and cover letter in the application documents section; materials may be submitted together or separately, preferably as PDFs. Reference information will be requested later in the process.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.