Post Doctoral Research Fellow (Liu/UDA)

The Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology & Biotechnology at North Dakota State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join a collaborative research program focused on the genetic and molecular characterization of disease resistance and important agronomic traits in barley.

The successful candidate will contribute to the identification, fine mapping, cloning, and functional characterization of genes controlling disease resistance and other agronomic traits. Research responsibilities include developing mapping populations, pathogen inoculation and phenotyping, marker development and genetic mapping, molecular cloning and construct development, plant transformation, protein–protein interaction assays, and functional validation using forward and reverse genetic approaches, including gene editing where appropriate.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to design and conduct independent experiments, analyze and interpret experimental data, prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, present research findings at scientific meetings, and contribute to collaborative grant proposals. The initial appointment is for two years and is renewable annually thereafter based on funding availability and satisfactory performance.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in plant genetics, plant pathology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should have demonstrated expertise in modern molecular and genetic approaches in crop or model plants, including genetic mapping, DNA sequencing, molecular cloning, protein interaction assays (e.g., yeast two-hybrid and co-immunoprecipitation), plant transformation, and gene functional analysis. Experience with CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing, bioinformatics, or next-generation sequencing is desirable but not required.

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment. Excellent written and oral communication skills, a strong publication record, and evidence of scientific productivity are highly preferred.

SALARY: $50,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience

TO APPLY:
For full consideration, applicants should submit:
1. A cover letter describing research interests and how their qualifications match the position.
2. A curriculum vitae, including a complete publication list.
3. Contact information for at least three professional references.

Questions regarding the position may be directed to:

Dr. Zhaohui Liu
Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology & Biotechnology
306 Walster Hall
North Dakota State University
Fargo, ND 58105-5012
Email: zhh.liu@ndsu.edu
Phone: 1-701-231-7454

Screening of applications will begin on September 17, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.

Note: Incomplete applications and applications submitted solely by email will not be considered.

North Dakota State University is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

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Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health & Wellness

• 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

Exceptional Retirement Plan

• 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.

Time Away & Support

• Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
• Supportive work-life balance

Education Benefits That Grow With You

• Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)
• 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents

Additional Optional Benefits

• Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
• Supplemental Retirement Plans

Explore Full Benefit Details:

Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

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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.

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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, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

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 ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu.