Research Associate – Symbiont Technology (Plant Systems & Field Biology)

We are seeking two highly motivated and independent Research Associates to lead and advance research on symbiont technology in plant systems with a strong emphasis on field validation and translational biology. These positions offer a unique opportunity to drive an active high-impact project with direct connections to USDA ARS and multi-state collaborative partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead coordination of ongoing symbiont field trials in collaboration with internal and external partners ensuring timely execution of monitoring data collection and experimental milestones
• Design and conduct experiments to advance symbiont technology including export mechanisms and related molecular innovations
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and lead synthesis of results across field and laboratory studies
• Supervise and mentor technical staff providing daily guidance on experimental design execution and data collection
• Coordinate closely with project collaborators including regular reporting of progress to USDA ARS leadership
• Maintain compliance with institutional safety and regulatory requirements (e.g. EHS APHIS permitting)
• Contribute to budget tracking and project management in coordination with administrative staff
• Prepare manuscripts reports and presentations for scientific and stakeholder audiences

The successful candidate will operate with a high degree of independence while embedded in a collaborative team that includes PhD-level scientists and experienced technical staff. The position includes access to established field sites greenhouse and laboratory facilities and a travel budget to support field-based research activities.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated prior experience with symbiont technology and development of symbiont-forming constructs is required
• Ph.D. in plant biology plant pathology entomology or a related field is required
• Demonstrated experience in experimental design data analysis and project leadership is required
• Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple components of a complex research program is required
• Experience with citrus field research plantmicrobe interactions genome editing in grape or translational agricultural systems is preferred