Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation (Miranda)

Position Summary:

The Department of Plant Sciences at North Dakota State University is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow to work in the soybean breeding/genetics program. The research project will focus on the genetic improvement of Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation (SNF) by using new/modern tools to identify and select optimal combinations using soybean genotypes. Additional work will include greenhouse, laboratory, and field activities focused on the genetic analysis of breeding and genetic populations by using genotypic and phenotypic data and its application into soybean improvement. The successful applicant is also expected to collaborate with scientists in other departments and institutions to better understand the genetic mechanisms of SNF in soybean. The candidate is expected to be familiar with the use and application of both new and available omics tools (phenomics, genomics, metabolomics, etc.) along with computational biology tools to develop soybean cultivars in increased SNF efficiency. Reporting and budget management duties will be made in coordination with the project leader. Project is initially planned for ~1 year with a possibility of a renewal/extension.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in plant sciences, genetics, agronomy, genomics, plant biology, plant pathology, microbiology, or closely related field of study.
• Demonstrated experience in Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation (SNF) research or related areas.
• Computer literacy in recording and statistically analyzing large datasets, especially for genome-wide association studies, genomic predictions, machine learning, coding and algorithm development, and related technologies.
• Laboratory and greenhouse experience mainly involving DNA extraction and molecular marker techniques with emphasis in SNP platforms, next gen sequencing, high throughput genotyping and phenotyping.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a multi-cultural research team.
• Demonstrated success with meeting deadlines on industry entry forms, research grants, publications, agreements, forms, releases, presentations, meetings, etc.
• Good record of publishing research in peer-reviewed journals and other forms.
• Handling of some hazardous chemicals may be required.
• Ability to work under adverse environmental conditions during the field growing season (spring, summer, fall).
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to possess or obtain a valid US driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in crop breeding focused on the use and application of omics tools for the improvement of breeding efficiency.
• Experience handling relational databases.
• Practical field experience in a commercial breeding program focused on cultivar development, especially in soybean breeding and/or genetics.
• Molecular biology and bacterial genetics experience
• Experience as a supervisor of personnel, and greenhouse management experience.
• Teaching experience.

Advertised salary: $55,000

Application Materials Needed:

Applicants must submit: 1) a cover letter discussing how the stated qualifications are met; 2) a detailed curriculum vitae; 3) unofficial academic transcripts from all institutions attended; and 4) contact information (including phone numbers, institutional addresses, and email addresses) of three current references from the most recent positions held.

Screening Date:

Review of applications will begin on April 30, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. Our main campus is located in Fargo, ND with Extension Service and Research Experiment Station locations across the entire state. NDSU has been listed in the Top 100 public research universities in the United States for research and development in agricultural sciences, psychology and social sciences, based on reported research expenditures.

NDSU is an exciting place to work offering a stimulating and diverse environment richly populated with people pursuing life-long learning and personal growth. Employees often attend on-campus cultural events, lectures, athletic events and enjoy walks through our beautiful campus.

NDSU employs over 6000 full-time and part-time employees across the state, making it the second largest employer in the community. NDSU is the best college in ND, according to Money Magazine (September 2018). NDSU was named a 2019 Best Value College by Forbes. Fargo made Livability.com’s top 10 list of cities to find a job and ranked at #11 for best places to live overall.

NDSU offers a wide array of professional opportunities including faculty, executive, managerial, professional, technical, paraprofessional, office support, servers and crafts/trades. Like a small city, NDSU operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Full time employees are offered a superb benefit package to include 100% company paid health insurance premiums and tuition assistance for employees and immediate family members. All of us at NDSU play an important role in serving our students and public constituencies. We encourage motivated and talented team members that thrive in a higher-ed environment to join our university!

Mission

With energy and momentum, North Dakota State University addresses the needs and aspirations of people in a changing world by building on our land-grant foundation.

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

EO/AA Statement:

North Dakota State University is an Equal Opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable.

Veteran’s Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements.