Work Location: Department of Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803.
Position Description: One Postdoctoral Researcher position is available to work principally on epidemiology, population genomics, and genome sequencing of Cercospora leaf blight (CLB) of soybean and wild hosts. This project also includes the development of assays for the detection of resistance to DMI, QoI, and SDHI fungicides. The research projects are collaborative efforts across the labs of Drs. Jonathan Richards, Vinson Doyle, and Sara Thomas-Sharma.
The postdoc will work on population biology/genomics of Cercospora spp. associated with CLB and Phytolacca americana. This project aims to understand population dynamics and genomic signatures of host adaptation and fungicide resistance evolution of CLB pathogens across the mid-southern United States. This project will primarily be focused on computational and lab work. Lab/computational work will include reference genome development (nanopore, Pacbio sequencing), RNAseq, differential gene expression analysis, demographic analysis, etc. This project will also leverage population genomic data to design assays for rapid screening of fungicide resistance (for QoI, DMI, and SDHI fungicide chemistries) and identify additional SNPs that might be associated with fungicide resistance. Field work may include sampling from agricultural and non-agricultural habitats and experimental field plots. Skills gained at the end of project period will thus include sequencing library preparation, bioinformatics, assay development, among others.
The successful candidate will be expected to participate in scientific meetings, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and apply for independent funding opportunities.
Qualification Requirements: PhD degree in biology, mycology, botany, ecology, plant pathology or other related field. Demonstrated experience (publications) carrying out evolutionary or genomics studies is preferred. Preference will be given to candidates with bioinformatics experience. Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and a willingness and ability to interact and collaborate with other scientists are essential to the success of the research. A valid Louisiana State driver’s license and ability to drive is required at the time of appointment.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort, and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2023 or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching cover letter along with a current resume/CV, letter of interest describing why you are interested in this position and your experiences that may be relevant to this project (maximum one page), official university transcripts, and two letters of reference. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the reference letters online, they may be sent directly to all 3 contacts below along with any questions:
Dr. Vinson P. Doyle
Associate Professor of Mycology
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
302 Life Science Building
Email: vdoyle@agcenter.lsu.edu
Dr. Jonathan K. Richards
Assistant Professor
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
302 Life Science Building
Email: jrichards@agcenter.lsu.edu
Dr. Sara Thomas-Sharma
Assistant Professor
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
302 Life Science Building
sthomassharma@agcenter.lsu.edu
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
