Pennsylvania State University
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6 days ago
Postdoctoral Scholar in Genome Editing and Plant–Microbe Interactions The Pennsylvania State University in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Microbiology
Funding
The position is initially funded for one year from the date of hire, with possible reappointment for additional years subject to satisfactory performance, university need, and funding availability. It is supported by multi-year grants and offers a competitive salary based on the NIH postdoctoral scale plus generous full-time employee benefits.
Country
United States
University
Pennsylvania State University
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About this position
The Burghardt Lab in the Plant Science Department at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar at Penn State University Park, United States.
The postdoctoral researcher will study genome editing and validation of bacterial genes underlying beneficial plant–microbe interactions in agroecosystems. Grant-funded research focuses on genetically rewiring rhizobia–legume interactions to influence competitive fitness inside and outside the host and optimize nitrogen fixation. Work will include identifying genetic candidates, engineering modified bacterial strains, testing downstream effects on plant and rhizobial traits, and communicating findings through publications and presentations.
Applicants need a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in Microbiology, Biology, or a related field, with experience in bacterial genome modification and evaluating plant and microbial phenotypes. Preferred experience includes Medicago and rhizobia experiments, Golden Gate cloning, rhizobial genome engineering, functional genomics, bacterial tagging, generalized linear models, multivariate statistics, collaborative and independent research, student mentoring, and peer-reviewed publications.
The initial appointment is funded for one year, with possible renewal based on performance and grant funding. Compensation follows the NIH postdoctoral salary scale and includes generous benefits. Applicants must meet background-check and driver’s-license requirements.
Apply through Penn State’s Job Posting Board. Submit one PDF named “lastname_Postdoc_BurghardtLab.pdf” containing a cover letter, CV, and contact details for three references. Review begins immediately and continues until a suitable candidate is selected.
Funding details
The position is initially funded for one year from the date of hire, with possible reappointment for additional years subject to satisfactory performance, university need, and funding availability. It is supported by multi-year grants and offers a competitive salary based on the NIH postdoctoral scale plus generous full-time employee benefits.
What's required
Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in Microbiology, Biology, or a related field, and must provide evidence of degree completion before hire. Excellent communication skills and experience modifying and manipulating bacterial genomes and assessing effects on plants and microbes are required. Preferred qualifications include plant or greenhouse experiments with Medicago and rhizobia; genome engineering such as Golden Gate cloning and rhizobial genome deletion/addition, ideally involving Sinorhizobium meliloti; statistical analysis using generalized linear models and multivariate statistics; functional genomics, bacterial genomes, and bacterial tagging; success working independently and in diverse teams; interest in mentoring students; and first-authored peer-reviewed publications and successful collaborations. A valid driver's license, motor vehicle records check, standard background checks, and successful completion of employment clearances are required.
How to apply
Apply through Penn State’s Job Posting Board at https://hr.psu.edu/careers. Upload one PDF titled “lastname_Postdoc_BurghardtLab.pdf” containing a cover letter describing scientific interests, qualifications, future goals, and preferred start date, plus a CV with contact information for three references. Application review begins immediately and remains open until a suitable candidate is identified. Questions may be sent to [email protected].
Make your next move.
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.