Postdoctoral Research Associate – VectorBorne Plant Pathology
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Posted on:
Yesterday
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate VectorBorne Plant PathologyAppointment Type:
Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The OlmedoVelarde Lab at Iowa State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on integrated research projects focused on vectorborne plant pathogens in corn and soybean systems with an emphasis on corn stuntassociated pathosystems.
The OlmedoVelarde Lab studies vectorborne plant pathosystems by integrating plant pathology entomology virology vector biology and molecular biology to develop innovative and sustainable management strategies for major field crops. The successful candidate will contribute to fundamental applied and translational research examining plantvectorpathogen interactions molecular diagnostics and novel control strategies in agroecosystems.
A major component of this position will involve developing fielddeployable molecular diagnostics (e.g. recombinase polymerase amplification RPA) for corn stuntassociated pathogens. The role will also include mechanistic studies of pathogen effectors and host interactions.
Required Minimum Qualifications (for temps/postdocs only delete for all other positions):
Ph.D. in Plant Pathology Entomology Microbiology Virology Molecular Biology or a closely related field
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong background in molecular biology and molecular diagnostics including experience with lowtiter or phloemlimited pathogens
- Experience working with plantassociated and/or vectorborne pathogens including insect vector systems (e.g. aphids leafhoppers psyllids)
- Background in effector biology hostpathogen interactions and/or plant immunity
- Experience developing fielddeployable or highthroughput diagnostic tools and conducting greenhouse and/or fieldbased plant pathology experiments
- Demonstrated publication record in peerreviewed journals with the ability to work independently and collaboratively (mentoring or grant experience a plus)
Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Plant Pathology Entomology and Microbiology (PPEM) at Iowa State University advances research teaching and extension focused on improving pest management and preventing disease. The Department houses interdisciplinary expertise across plant pathology entomology and microbiology supported by stateoftheart facilities and strong collaborations that address current and emerging challenges in agriculture and plant health.
Department Unit/Website:
Plant Pathology Entomology and Microbiology
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits including medical and dental as well as:
- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
- Generous vacation holiday and sick time and leave plans
- Onsite childcare (Ames Iowa)
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Various voluntary benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing program
- Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when where and how you do your work. For more information please speak with the Hiring Manager.
If you have questions regarding this application process please email or call or Toll Free: 1-.
Proposed Start Date:
August 3 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:
Full timePay Grade:
Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:
May 7 2026Posting Close Date:
May 14 2026Job Requisition Number:
R19152Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race color age ethnicity religion national origin pregnancy sexual orientation genetic information sex marital status disability or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity 2680 Beardshear Hall 515 Morrill Road Ames Iowa 50011 Tel. email .
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Attending Iowa State University of Science and Technology (ISU) can be a whirlwind experience for some. ISU is a public land-grant institution offering higher education courses and programs with an emphasis on science, technology, and related areas. It's also home to the Cyclones athl ... View more
