Post-doctoral Position in Molecular Plant Pathology and Functional Genomics
University of California Davis, Department of Plant Pathology
BACKGROUND
The Stergiopoulos lab at the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of California Davis is seeking for a highly skilled and motivated post-doctoral fellow in the field of molecular plant pathology and functional genomics, to study molecular mechanisms of fungicide resistance in the grape powdery mildew (GPM) fungus Erysiphe necator. The lab’s research portfolio includes studying the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenesis on plants, fungicide resistance, and RNA silencing in fungi. For our studies, we use system-level approaches that integrate genomics with classical genetics and biochemical analyses to identify and functionally characterize target genes and cellular processes in fungi.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The post-doctoral candidate will be drawn from the field of Molecular Plant Pathology, Molecular Plant Sciences, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related disciplines and will focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of fungicide resistance in GPM, using functional genomics. Specific lines of research include, but are not limited to, identifying markers for fungicide resistance through comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses, functionally analyzing candidate gene targets for resistance by RNAi or heterologous expression in other systems, monitoring fungicide resistance in GPM, and developing diagnostic tools for resistance. The position is initially for one year, renewable for a second year upon satisfactory performance. Salary is based on experience and qualifications according to UC Davis pay-scales (https://grad.ucdavis.edu/postdoctoral/appointment-promotion). UCD provides a highly vibrant intellectual atmosphere, a pleasant college environment, and career development activities specifically designed for post-doctoral scholars (https://grad.ucdavis.edu/postdoctoral).
EXPERIENCE
Highly motivated candidates with an interest in molecular plant pathology are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Molecular Plant Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or related disciplines. Experience in analyzing RNAseq or genomic data is a plus but not a pre-requisite. A strong record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications, demonstrated ability to conduct experiments independently, troubleshot experiments, analyze results statistically, and to meet project deadlines, are a requirement. Solid verbal and written communication skills are also a must.
APPLICATION
Interested candidates should send a single pdf file to Prof. Ioannis Stergiopoulos (istergiopoulos@ucdavis.edu) that includes (i) a brief cover letter explaining their interest for this position and their future career goals, (ii) their full CV, and (iii) contact information of three references. The position is immediately available and applications will be reviewed in the order that they are received.