Post-Doctoral Associate

Fusarium head blight and the resulting presence of deoxynivalenol (DON) and ergot sclerotia are a major food and feed safety hazard in winter rye. We are seeking a skilled and dedicated individual who will find answers to best manage these two disease threats and impediments to widespread adoption of winter rye as an alternative to corn in swine rations. This position is housed at the Northwest Research & Outreach Center, Crookston, MN, and works closely with the Principal Investigator and a collaborating faculty member in the Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at North Dakota State University. This position will report directly to the project's Principal Investigator and the collaborating faculty member at NDSU.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in plant pathology. The position requires the ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and consistently uphold high standards of work ethic, attention to detail, and timeliness.

Key Responsibilities

• (25%) Develop and implement greenhouse disease screening protocols for genetic resistance to ergot and Fusarium head blight in commercially available winter rye cultivars and hybrids.
• (25%) Determine the efficacy of registered fungicides to reduce the incidence and severity of FHB and ergot in field trials
• (50%) Publish findings in relevant scientific journals and develop best management practices for the management of FHB and ergot for Minnesota and North Dakota's winter rye producers

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in plant pathology or related field
• Evidence of strong organizational and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in training and supervising undergraduate students

Pay Range: $64,099; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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