This is a full-time (40 hrs/week) position with available funding for two years. Continuation past the first year is contingent on a successful annual review.
Work Location: Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, LA.
Position Description: The Field Crop Pathology Lab at Louisiana State University is recruiting two postdoctoral research associates to study diverse aspects of the pathogens causing Cercospora leaf blight on soybean. Projects include the study of lipid droplets in toxin sequestration, developing tools to monitor fungicide resistance, and development of disease prediction tools. Depending on the project, the postdoctoral research associate will be expected to lead and contribute to designing lab/field experiments, collect and analyze field samples, conduct field fungicide trials and spore trapping experiments, and develop assays to study pathogen biology. Responsibilities also include writing manuscripts, presenting results at meetings and conferences, and mentoring students. Prior experience with developing culture assays, fungicide resistance detection tools, data mining, disease prediction, and/or microscopy is highly preferred.
Qualification Requirements: PhD in plant pathology or other related field. A successful candidate will have demonstrated experience working with fungal plant pathogens. Preferred qualifications include experience working with field crops, fungicide trials, microscopy, culture assays, and/or data mining. Excellent oral and written communication skills and ability to collaborate with colleagues within and among departments are required. A valid Louisiana State driver’s license and ability to drive is required at the time of appointment or soon thereafter.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. For detailed description of this position and benefits, please visit us at http://www.lsuagcenter.com/en/administration. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options, such as retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances, Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan, university holidays, 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 of full-time and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: June 14, 2023 or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Must apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching a letter of interest (describing your experiences relevant to the projects above), resume, cover letter, official university transcripts, and contact information for two references. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching recommendation letters online, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. Sara Thomas-Sharma
Assistant Professor of Field Crop Pathology
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
Email: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.
