The Department of Horticulture and Crop Science in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position. This role focuses on advancing our understanding of interactions between pathogenic and non-pathogenic microbes and plant leaf systems.

This is a primarily research-focused position, with approximately 90% effort dedicated to research activities and 10% to outreach and extension efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Research (90%)

• Design and conduct independent and collaborative research on plantmicrobe interactions, with an emphasis on foliar microbiology.
• Investigate mechanisms by which pathogenic and non-pathogenic microbes interact with plant leaves.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using appropriate methodologies.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and seminars.
• Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and other researchers within the department and across disciplines.

Outreach (10%)

• Contribute to outreach and extension activities that communicate research findings to stakeholders, including growers, industry partners, and the public.
• Assist in developing educational materials and participating in workshops or presentations.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research on plantmicrobe interactions as part of doctoral training.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with foliar pathogens, microbiomes, or plant defense mechanisms.
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Familiarity with laboratory and/or molecular techniques relevant to plantmicrobe research.

Work Environment

This position is based on the Columbus campus within the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment within a leading agricultural college.