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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to research innovative biological control strategies for managing the North American beech leaf nematode. The scholar will lead or coordinate studies using naturally occurring bacteria from areas affected by Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) to suppress Litylenchus crenatae ssp. mccannii (Lcm) nematode populations. Additionally, the scholar will test our collection of bacterial pathogens for nematocidal activity against Lcm.

The Postdoctoral Scholar will: Will isolate bacteria from infected Lcm, assess the impact of isolated bacterial strains on Lcm nematodes through in-vitro assays, and identify bacteria deleterious to Lcm. Conduct in-situ greenhouse assays. Evaluate the off-target effects of these bacteria on non-parasitic nematodes and other forest insects, such as caterpillars. Plan, conduct, and analyze research. Synthesize data, prepare scientific manuscripts, and present research results at local and national scientific conferences. Assist in training graduate and undergraduate researchers. Gain experience in grant project management.

This position requires a PhD in nematology (preferred), plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, or a related field. Competitive candidates must have significant experience working with plant-parasitic nematodes, sequence analysis, and microbiology, along with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills (both oral and written).

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Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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