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 on root microbiomes associated with dry peas and lentils and determine pathogens associated with the root rot complex and beneficial organisms that can be used to manage root rot diseases and promote plant health. The successful candidate will participate in field, laboratory, and greenhouse projects to characterize root rot pathogens and determine promising biocontrol or plant growth promotion agents that could be used to improve commercial production of these crops. This position requires demonstrated expertise in molecular genetics and experience isolating and identifying fungi or bacteria from plant tissues. 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. Possess, or be able to obtain by date of hire, a valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications: Proven record of expertise in any of the following areas is desired: molecular characterization of pathogens, microbiome research, biological control of pathogens, and field-based research. 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 Instructions: Applicants must upload the following required documents to their online application. Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requireme