Postdoctoral Research Associate at Washington State University in Prosser, WA

Job description

Online applications must be received before 11:59pm on: November 11, 2026 If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details. Available Title(s): 306-YY_FACULTY - Postdoctoral Research Associate Business Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate Employee Type: Faculty (+) (Fixed Term) Position Term: 12 Month Position Details: The Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Plant Pathology at the Washington State University-Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, WA will conduct independent research identifying pathogens associated with the Ascochyta blight complex on winter pea and management of these pathogens through genetic resistance. The successful candidate will conduct field and greenhouse studies screening genotyped pea lines for genetic resistance to the different pathogens of this complex and utilize genome-wide association mapping to determine potential candidate genes associated with the tolerance or resistance. This position requires demonstrated expertise in molecular genetics, experience isolating and identifying fungi from plant tissues, and scoring plants for disease resistance. It also requires experience in conducting genome-wide association studies and analyzing mapping results. Publication and excellent communication and interpersonal skills are desired. The candidate must be willing to travel independently to research sites throughout the course of the study. The position is initially for one year and may be renewed annually based on performance and funding availability. The research will also be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Lyndon Porter, Research Plant Pathologist with the USDA-ARS in Prosser, WA. Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for Faculty and Total Compensation . For information or questions about Benefits, please contact HRS Benefits at 509-335-4521. Additional Information: Annual Salary: $62,232- $66,000 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications In accordance with RCW 49.58.110 , the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Successful candidates typically begin up to mid-point of the salary range. This is a full time (100% FTE), temporary position. This position is overtime eligible. Appointment Duration: This is a temporary position expected to start on November 16, 2026 and end on November 15, 2027 . Renewal is dependent on the need for extension and/or if additional funding is secured to extend employment. Required Qualifications: PhD in Plant Pathology, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, or a related field. Must have, or be able to obtain by time of hire, a valid driver’s license and meet requirements in accordance with SPPM 7.10 and departmental driving standards. Preferred Qualifications: Proven record of expertise in any of the following areas is desired: molecular characterization of pathogens, screening plant germplasm for resistance to plant pathogens, and experience conducting genome-wide association studies. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to collaborate effectively and communicate respectfully in the workplace, including when working in a multicultural team setting Position Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for work visa sponsorship About Department/College/Area/ Campus - https://iarec.wsu.edu/ Area/College: College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) Department Name: Plant Pathology Location: Prosser, WA Application I