We are seeking a postdoctoral scholar to work on chemical ecology of invasive piercing-sucking insects and pathogens of Christmas trees.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Primary duties of the Postdoctoral Scholar include but are not limited to the following: Design and conduct experiments to understand plant responses to invasive piercing-sucking insects and/or pathogens of Christmas trees to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying plant-insect/pathogen interactions. The Postdoctoral Scholar will be expected to conduct experiments, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, conduct molecular analyses, and carry out biochemical analyses of terpenes/phenolic metabolites.

The Postdoctoral Scholar will be specifically involved with:
(1) Incorporation of quantitative genetic information into experimental designs using information derived from Fraser fir progeny test datasets.
(2) Extraction of metabolites and RNA for downstream biochemical and molecular analyses
(3) Evaluation of molecular signatures and specialized metabolites at the site of insect feeding/pathogen infection
(4) Analysis of phenolic metabolites with UPLC equipped with a PDA detector and mass spectrometer
(5) Generation of genomic resources and analysis of downstream bioinformatic data.
(6) Write reports, Extension materials, and scientific manuscripts
(7) Collection of field data and perform experiments on field trees
(8) Present at scientific meetings and assist with Extension activities as part of the Christmas tree genetics program to disseminate results to stakeholders

Perform other related duties as assigned such as lab and greenhouse organization, assisting with other experiments in the lab as needed.

Requires experience working with plant interactions with other organisms. Candidates must have a working knowledge of transcriptomic data analysis and the use and application of bioinformatic tools. In-depth knowledge on plant-pest interactions at a molecular scale is also required.

Experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, RT-qPCR, RNA isolation, and molecular cloning is encouraged.

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NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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