Postdoctoral Scholar

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

TheKantor lab inPenn State University's Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks onePostdoctoral Scholar to design, conduct, and analyze a comparative greenhouse host-range test of Litylenchus crenatae spp. mccanii(Lcm) nematode on native host species. The scholar will explore if any other North American native trees besides beech are hosts for the beech leaf nematode andwill generate comparison data on resistance to beech leaf nematode.

The Postdoctoral Scholar will have priority tasks in the following areas:

• Independent experimental design, implementation, analysis, time management, and reporting.
• Various experimental tasks, including but not limited to sample collection, nematode DNA extraction, PCR and qPCR, nematode identification, and counts.
• Collect samples, extract, and sterilize Lcm nematodes from leaves and buds.
• Conduct greenhouse tree inoculations with Lcm.
• Evaluate the impact of Lcm nematodes on inoculated trees.
• Data collection, data analysis, statistics, and different microscopy techniques.
• Synthesize data, prepare scientific manuscripts, and present research results at local and national scientific conferences.
• Assistance with lab management and ongoing nematology,microbiology, and molecular biology experiments, as assigned.
• Assist in training research technicians and undergraduate researchers when appropriate.
• Gain experience in grant project management.

This position requires a PhD in nematology (preferred), forestry, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, or a related field. Candidates with experience in working with plant-parasitic nematodes, greenhouse operations, and sequence analysis are preferred. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills are also highly desired.

Additional Information:

Application materials should include a single pdf with (i) a cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job, (ii) a CV that includes contact information for at least three references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address). This position is funded until September 30th, 2026, and is contingent on the availability of funds. Please contactmpk6148@psu.edufor additional information.

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CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: