DESCRIPTION: The Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology and Biotechnology, North Dakota State University, has available a postdoctoral research scientist position in the laboratory of Dr. Barney Geddes focused on plant biology and plant–microbe symbiosis. The selected candidate will lead imaging-based phenotyping of root and plant–microbe interactions using confocal and other advanced microscopy together with quantitative image analysis, perform omics analysis of host responses (including RNA-seq), and generate and work with transgenic plants. The researcher will be responsible for establishing and scoring plant phenotyping assays, analyzing imaging and sequencing data, mentoring students, and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals. This position is available for one year, with subsequent years contingent upon funding and performance.
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED: Applicants must have an earned Ph.D. in plant biology, plant genetics, molecular biology, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should possess prior experience in advanced light microscopy and quantitative image analysis, and in plant transformation and work with transgenic plants. Candidates are expected to work independently and as part of a team, and to initiate and accomplish research goals including publication of results in refereed scientific journals.
PREFERRED: Experience in plant–microbe interactions, root/rhizosphere biology, or root symbiosis systems; familiarity with RNA-seq or other omics data analysis; molecular biology and gene-editing skills; plant tissue culture and aseptic technique; quantitative or computational modeling of biological systems; and a strong publication record with excellent communication and writing skills
SALARY: $55,000+ DOE
TO APPLY: For full consideration, interested individuals should submit the following materials: 1) a letter of application discussing how the stated qualifications are met; 2) a detailed curriculum vitae with a list of publications; and 3) contact details for at least three references. If you have any questions about the position, please email Dr. Barney Geddes, [email protected]. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
screening will begin 9/18/26
Our commitment to caring for our employees isn’t just words—it’s proven. In NDSU’s most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development. “My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person” and “I have the opportunities to learn and grow”, were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you’ll experience here.
Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success.
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
-
100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage
-
Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA
-
Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date
-
Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation
-
Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position
(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.
-
Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
-
Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
-
Supportive work-life balance
-
Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)
-
50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents
-
Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care
-
Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
-
Supplemental Retirement Plans
About Us:
North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.
NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.
NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.
NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of 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. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, [email protected].
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.
Veteran’s Preference Notice:
This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran’s Preference requirements.
Reasonable Accommodation Information:
North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or [email protected].