Postdoctoral Associate - Plant Pathologist

Virginia Tech’s Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center is recruiting a full-time postdoctoral associate to join a multistate, transdisciplinary team investigating the boxwood blight pathogen biology and epidemiology, and developing sustainable management solutions for this emerging disease. Boxwood is the No. 1 evergreen shrub crop in the U.S., and an iconic plant in American landscapes, including many historic gardens. Boxwood blight is affecting everyone on the horticultural chain from grower to consumer, while posing an increasing risk to the American boxwood heritage.

This position presents tremendous opportunities not only to shape the future of boxwood and boxwood heritage through research and development but also to set a new model for plant biosecurity in the 21st century through stakeholder partnership and international collaboration. It also offers great opportunities for junior scientist to develop and advance professional career by honing her/his skills and connecting with peers and industry leaderships. Self-motivated scientists with a doctoral degree received within the past 4 years are encouraged to apply.

The primary responsibilities of this position are to improve the survival, colonization and performance of selected biological control agents through lab (60%), greenhouse (20%) and field studies (20%). The selectee is expected to present research results at project meetings and professional conferences, and publish them in refereed journals in a timely manner.

• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• A PhD degree in microbiology, molecular biology or a closely related discipline awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of the appointment with a minimum of one year of eligibility remaining.
• A basic understanding of plant pathology, epidemiology, and plant disease management.
• Field and greenhouse experience with plants.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Restricted

October 3, 2022

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.