The Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for a highly motivated and enthusiastic post-doctoral research associate. This is a full-time, 12-month (calendar year) special appointment. The apportionment is 100% research and will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska.
This position will be working in the Kim Lab, investigating the molecular virulence mechanisms of Puccinia sorghi in maize and sorghum plants. The main area of responsibility will be in the NSF/USDA-funded project on the investigation of molecular and cellular bases of the maize/Puccinia sorghi interaction in collaboration with researchers at the University of Wyoming and North Carolina State University.
The successful candidate will join research elucidating 1) molecular virulence mechanisms of Puccinia species in maize during the pathogenesis, 2) the role of calmodulin-related proteins for plant immunity, or 3) the mechanisms of non-host resistance in sorghum/Puccinia sorghi system. Our lab uses an interdisciplinary approach involving molecular biology, virology, genetics, and bioinformatics to accomplish our research goals.
Research-related activities include keeping up to date on relevant scientific literature, writing manuscripts, presenting the project at international conferences, and assisting the PI with reports and the writing of grant proposals. This position will also devote time to mentoring and supervising student researchers.
In addition to the above-described duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, and/or university level.
Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the Department of Biochemistry are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.
As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation.
Minimum Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in plant pathology, plant biology, molecular biology, or genetics.
Preferred Qualifications
- Record of first-author, peer-reviewed research publications investigating plant-microbe interactions, studies on effector biology, and plant immunity.
- Research experience in maize model system.
- Demonstrated expertise in the protoplast assay, co-IP, yeast two hybrid, and confocal microscopy.
- Experience in genomics/transcriptomics/translatomic-based gene discovery.
How to Apply
Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the information form. Attach the following documents:
A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions, and your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum. For questions or accommodations related to this position contact: Marci Sturek: msturek2@unl.edu
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date): 05/18/2023