Job Opportunities

Interested in working in the department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology? See the open job positions below.

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Assistant Professional Researcher in Molecular Gut Physiology and Microbiology

Posted: 1/20/2022

The Departments of Microbiology and Plant Pathology and Molecular, Cell & Systems Biology at the University of California invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Professional Researcher in Molecular Gut Physiology and Microbiology to conceive and conduct research for the laboratories of Drs. James Borneman and Frances Sladek. The purpose of this position is to determine the molecular basis (host, microbes, and their interactions) of diet-induced obesity, diet-induced diabetes, diet-induced inflammatory bowel disease, and the role of the gut microbiome and the liver in these diseases. The final candidate will formulate hypotheses based on literature searches, design experiments to test those hypotheses, perform the experiments, analyze the data, and present the findings of the research in written and oral formats – all in the field of Molecular Gut Physiology and Microbiology. They will also write the manuscripts with input from Drs. Borneman and Sladek and submit the them to journals for review; they will participate in responding to the reviewers’ comments. The successful applicant will have experience in writing grant applications and will take the lead in writing grant proposals for the projects they are involved in.

Required qualifications at time of application for this position include:

Ph.D. in the life sciences
At least five years of relevant postdoctoral training
Experience performing: mouse experiments including breeding, diet-based mouse experiments, transcriptomic analyses, ELISAs, qPCRs, histology experiments, Westerns, Illumina amplicon microbiome analyses, isolating anaerobic gut and tissue bacteria, cultivating anaerobic gut and tissue bacteria, germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse experiments, metabolomic analysis, and cell-based assays to confirm the in vivo findings.
Demonstrated expertise in writing manuscripts for publication, including: first author publications, as well as grant proposals as PI and/or co-PI.
Experience in supervising others in the lab and training other researchers.

Advancement through the Professional Researcher ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input.

To apply: Submit: (i) a Curriculum Vitae, (ii) a Cover Letter describing why you are interested in the position, (iii) a Statement of Research that includes a description of the publications that demonstrate that you have the required qualifications listed above, (iv) names and contact information for three references and, (v) a Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01524. Review of applications will commence on February 25, 2022, and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. James Borneman, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, at borneman@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Rocio McFadden, Academic Personnel, at rocio.mcfadden@ucr.edu.

UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

University of California COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy
As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees must (a) provide proof of receiving at least one dose of a COVID-19 Vaccine no later than 14 calendar days after their first date of employment and provide proof of Full Vaccination no later than eight weeks after their first date of employment; or (b) if applicable, submit a request for Exception or Deferral no later than 14 calendar days after their first date of employment. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

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Assistant Professor of Extension in Plant Pathology

Posted: 12/3/2021

The University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), a statewide organization with local delivery, in collaboration with the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (CNAS), UC Riverside, invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Professor of Extension in the area of Plant Pathology for Subtropical Crops.

The position is 80% Extension and 20% Research with an academic career-track, 11-month appointment in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at UC Riverside (https://microplantpath.ucr.edu/). The position will be available after January 2022. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Required qualification for this position at the time of application is a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or a closely related discipline.

Preferred qualifications for this position at the time of application include: postdoctoral experience, documented experience with subtropical crops, applied management of plant diseases, and detection of plant pathogens or crop production.

Additional qualifications for this position, required at the time of employment, include:

Demonstrated expertise or appropriate training in plant pathology and plant protection.
Demonstrated ability or potential to develop an extension and outreach program with local and regional application, statewide impact and national recognition.
Demonstrated ability or potential to develop an applied research program in one or more aspects of sustainable disease management of subtropical crops.
Documented evidence of applied research activity and a record of scientific publication productivity.
A record of acquisition of extramural funding or the potential to do so.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work with others in a collegial team atmosphere.
Evidence of or potential for leadership and initiative.
Evidence of or potential for extending applied research and conducting outreach education for growers, nurseries, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Subtropical crops are critical industries to Central and Southern California, and California comprises a significant percentage of production and consumption of these crops in the U.S. These commodities are currently at a crossroads. The very existence of the iconic California citrus is threatened by the Huanglongbing disease, and avocado is at risk from the invasive pathogen Raffaelea lauricola, the causal agent of laurel wilt. In addition, Pierce's disease continues to threaten wine and table grape production and the invasive Fusarium dieback-shot hole borer disease-pest complex is rapidly destroying trees in urban and native ecosystems in Southern California. Growers also experience losses from a range of endemic fruit, foliar, branch, and root pathogens and the problems are exacerbated by abiotic stresses related to climate change such as extreme heat, drought, and water quality and salinity.

The successful candidate will develop an innovative educational extension program with local and regional application, statewide impact, and national recognition. The incumbent will collaborate closely with colleagues in CNAS, across UC, and within the UC ANR Cooperative Extension network who specialize on subtropical crops, IPM, and plant protection for the dissemination of science-based information and provide field and laboratory diagnostic services. The incumbent will also develop productive working relationships with commodity groups, agro-biochemical industry personnel, state and federal agricultural and regulatory agencies, and non-government organizations to advance their program.

The successful candidate will develop a creative, extramurally funded, productive applied research program. Collaboration with relevant personnel, including county-based UC ANR Advisors, Agricultural Experiment Station faculty at UC campuses, and USDA-ARS scientists is expected. Research will be focused on relevant sustainable and integrated disease management strategies for subtropical crops, such as citrus, avocado, and grapes, and related diseases that will complement the extension program and lead to scholarly contributions. Areas of research could include the etiology and epidemiology of endemic and invasive diseases, improved methods of pathogen detection, understanding the influence of microbial communities and climate change on disease outbreaks, and development of new and improved disease management practices.

Responsibilities

Extension and Outreach: Provide leadership for statewide extension activities on diseases and pathogens of subtropical crops through: 1) development of educational programs on how to diagnose diseases and apply appropriate disease management strategies through extension of science-based information through the network of UC ANR Advisors and Cooperative Extension personnel; 2) conducting workshops, speaking at appropriate events, and providing diagnostic and pathogen detection services; 3) interacting in a two-way manner with growers, nurseries, pest control advisors, chemical and biological plant protection industry personnel, shippers, commodity organizations, allied professionals and agricultural organizations, environmental and other state and federal agencies, and non-government organizations, and academic clientele such as UC ANR Advisors, AES faculty, and Master Gardeners, to identify and be responsive to their needs; 4) acting as a liaison between industry organizations, the public, the University of California, and state and federal agencies; 5) participating in graduate academic programs (MS, PhD) of the campus and participate in classes involving field and laboratory diagnostics, disease management, and other courses offered through the Department; and 6) development of web-based resources, training courses, and publications of lay and peer-reviewed literature.

Research: The successful candidate will develop a creative and productive applied research program on relevant sustainable and integrated disease management strategies for subtropical crops such as citrus, avocado, and grapes and related diseases affecting urban or natural ecosystems that will complement the extension program and lead to scholarly contributions. The incumbent will provide leadership in directing research projects of professional researchers and graduate students, or postdoctoral scholars, and publish results in peer-reviewed professional and scientific journals and appropriate UCCE outlets. Areas of emphasis will be based on the needs identified and feedback received from the extension and outreach program, and could include: etiology and epidemiology of endemic and emerging diseases, improved methods of pathogen detection, understanding the influence of microbial communities and climate change on pathogens and disease outbreaks, mitigation of the spread of invasive pathogens, and developing new or improved disease management practices. Research areas could also include the use of new epidemiological tools, improved training modalities for growers and first responders that optimize pathogen and disease comprehension. Additional research areas could include the use of information technologies, big data, and forecasting for the improvement of best practices for disease outbreaks prevention and minimization of losses impacting subtropical crops of economic importance in California. Collaborations within the UC ANR network (e.g., Advisors, Specialists, AES faculty), state (CDFA) and federal partners (USDA-ARS and USDA-APHIS) and funding from extramural sources, is a fundamental and indispensable requirement of the position.

Service: University and public service through committee work at the department, college, campus, or system wide level and participation in professional organizations, continuing education and other appropriate means is required. Providing field and laboratory diagnostic services is expected.

Relationships: This position is responsible to the Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology for program direction, job performance, administrative matters, and operational methods. The incumbent will serve as the contact person for communications with/among USDA, CDFA, and UC ANR Advisors and other personnel, industry, IPM and plant pathology experts of the state. The incumbent will act in an advisory capacity to pest control advisors, farm advisors and other specialists in plant pathology matters and for technical advice on disease prevention and management.

Affirmative Action: Comply with all applicable federal, state laws and regulations, University, Campus, and Division policies and procedures related to civil rights, affirmative action, and equal employment opportunity. Promote in all ways consistent with the other responsibilities of this position accomplishment of Campus and Division affirmative action and equal opportunity goals. Collaborate with County Cooperative Extension staff to meet affirmative action and equal opportunity goals.

Advancement through the Professional ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input.

To apply: submit the following to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01501:

Cover Letter – A letter of intent outlining special interest in the position, relevant qualifications and experience, and career goals.
Curriculum Vitae – Most recently updated C.V.
Statement of Extension and Outreach Vision.
A Statement of Research Vision Supported by Previous Accomplishments.
Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence – Applicants should summarize their past and/or potential future contributions to promoting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, which can be reflected through research, teaching, supervision, mentoring, community engagement, service, and any of the other varied activities that are a part of an academic career.
Letters of Recommendation: Applicants should provide a minimum of three professional letters of recommendation.

Review of applications will commence on February 7, 2022, and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Georgios Vidalakis, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, at georgios.vidalakis@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Mrs. Rocio McFadden, Academic Personnel, at rocio.mcfadden@ucr.edu.

UCR is a land-grant world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body while its Agricultural Experiment Station has provided over 110 years of service to California’s and U.S.A.’s agriculture. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students as well as promote the wellbeing and advancement of all Californians. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.

University of California COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees must (a) provide proof of receiving at least one dose of a COVID-19 Vaccine no later than 14 calendar days after their first date of employment and provide proof of full vaccination no later than eight weeks after their first date of employment; or (b) if applicable, submit a request for Exception or Deferral no later than 14 calendar days after their first date of employment. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

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Specialist in Microbiology

Posted: 12/3/2021

The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for a full time Specialist to conduct applied research for the Hsiao Lab in Riverside, CA. The purpose of this position is to maintain germfree mouse colonies and support microbiology research activities under the direction of Dr. Ansel Hsiao. The final candidate will be responsible for basic mouse husbandry with germfree/gnotobiotic mouse isolators, including monitoring and replenishment under sterile conditions of food, water, and supplies. In addition to animal husbandry and maintenance, the candidate will support experiments using gnotobiotic animals to probe the relationship between human gut microbes and gastrointestinal pathogens.

Required qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include: 4-year undergraduate degree in life sciences associated field (e.g. Biology, Microbiology, pre-medical or pre-nursing etc.).

Preferred qualifications for this position include: prior experience with rodent animal husbandry and microbiological sterile technique.

Salary is competitive and will be determined based on qualifications and experience.

Advancement through the Specialist ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input.

To apply: submit 1) resume or CV and 2) 2 contacts for references to ansel.hsiao@ucr.edu. Review of applications will commence on January 1, 2022, and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Ansel Hsiao, Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, at ansel.hsiao@ucr.edu.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

University of California COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy: As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy. All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. For new University of California employees, the applicable deadline is eight weeks after their first date of employment.

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Assistant Specialist in Systems Engineering for Plant Pathology

Posted: 11/3/2021

The Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside is seeking a highly motivated individual with a proven track record of productivity and the ability to conduct research as a part-time Assistant Specialist in Systems Engineering for Plant Pathology to conduct applied research for the Vidalakis Lab, in Riverside and San Bernardino, CA.

The purpose of this position is to engineer, develop and improve a plant/citrus tissue processing system accompanied by an automated paperless sample registering system. The final candidate will be engineering, developing and improving a plant/citrus tissue processing system including the mechanical design and downstream processes for high throughput and bulk sample processing. This system will include an automated paperless sample tracking system that links a phone app with the engineered instrument, namely Tissue Extractor, in an online webserver. The phone app will utilize NFC to link trees with their corresponding samples and upload the linkages to the online server. The Tissue Extractor will use NFC to scan the sample. While extracting the sample, the Tissue Extractor will record weights and processing times for every sample to be linked online. The final candidate will automate the Tissue Extractor and its downstream processes to optimize processing time and quality of pathogen testing and detection. This will require designing and manufacturing electrical and fluidic systems. The final candidate will write safety software to ensure secure connections and quality standards are met before each sample is run.

Required qualifications at time of application for this position include:

M.S. in Bioengineering with experience in Database management.
Experience with developing and maintaining a Django webserver with a PostGis backend, NFC communication, and phone app development.
Proficiency in Python, Java, C, JavaScript, and HTML.
Knowledgeable in designing complex electrical circuits in Eagle and mechanical designs in SolidWorks.
Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, such as nucleic acid extraction and RT-qPCR, and woody plant tissue processing.
Willing to work with minimum supervision and within a research group of plant pathologists, molecular and plant cellular biologists, and engineers.
Excellent communication skills to include written communication and the ability to communicate across many different fields.

Preferred qualifications for this position include:

Experience working with pathogen detection of citrus or other woody perennial tree crops.
Experience with GIS programs such as Openlayers, GeoDjango, and PostGIS.

To apply: submit a letter of interest/cover letter, curriculum vitae including a publication list, a Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence, and the contact information of three current, professional references to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01448. Review of applications will commence on November 26, 2021, and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.

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Assistant Specialist in Fungal Ecology

Posted: 10/22/2021

The Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Specialist in fungal ecology to conduct applied research for the Glassman Lab. The purpose of this position is to manage the wet lab aspects of the Glassman lab.

The final candidate will be responsible for 1) keeping the lab safe and enforcing any extra safety precautions necessary during covid-19 pandemic 2) keeping the lab neat and organized 3) purchasing supplies and maintaining chemical and lab safety standards for the lab 4) conducting field work and/or greenhouse work 5) setting up ecological experiments with fungal and bacterial cultures 6) performing DNA extractions 7) setting up 16S, 18S and ITS Illumina MiSeq libraries 8) performing qPCRs of 16S and 18S 9) performing techniques associated with identifying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal spores and root colonization 10) growing bacterial and fungal cultures and making stocks 11) training undergraduate and graduate students 12) performing laboratory microcosms 13) making conceptual figures or science communication artwork in Adobe Illustrator 14) performing bioinformatics and analyzing data in R 15) contributing to manuscript writing.

Required qualifications at time of application for this position include:

Master’s Degree in Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics or a related field.
Expertise in laboratory safety
Expertise in ordering and purchasing within the UC system
Expertise with molecular protocols including DNA extractions, PCRs, qPCR, Sanger Sequencing, Illumina MiSeq sequencing and preparation of amplicon libraries for 16S and ITS.
Willingness to do field work and greenhouse work
Expertise in training undergraduate and graduate students in molecular and sterile techniques
Expertise at culturing bacteria and fungi
Expertise in bioinformatics for Illumina MiSeq
Expertise at performing basic microbial ecology statistics in R
Positive and collaborative attitude
Willingness to give honest feedback
Expertise in greenhouse and field work as well as laboratory safety, purchasing, and training.

Preferred qualifications for this position include:

Minimum 2 years of experience working in a lab
Excellent oral and written communication
Expertise in Adobe Illustrator
Excellent troubleshooting abilities
Contribution to manuscript writing

To apply: submit CV, Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence, and the contact information for three references to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01465. Review of applications will commence on November 22, 2021, and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Sydney Glassman, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, at sydney.glassman@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Ms. Kendall Dunmore, Academic Personnel, at kendall.dunmore@ucr.edu.

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Postdoctoral Scholar in Plant Virology

Posted: 10/13/2021

The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside invite applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position to conduct research in Plant Virology under the supervision of Professor Georgios Vidalakis. The purpose of this position is to conduct independent research in citrus virology and to study the biological and molecular properties and potential transmission of a novel plant associated virus-like RNA species tentatively named iRNA (i.e., citrus yellow-vein associated virus, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2021.683130/full).

The selected candidate will work at the Citrus Clonal Protection Program (CCPP) towards citrus transmission experiments to study iRNA tree delivery protocols (Agro-infiltration, RNA, mechanical, grafting etc.), transmissibility (insect, pollen, pruning, seed etc.), mobility, host range, symptomatology, interactions with other citrus viral pathogens as well as effects on tree physiology, growth, and fruit production and quality of commercially important citrus scion and rootstock varieties. The selected candidate will also test samples from USA citrus producing areas to develop information on the iRNA distribution in the country. The selected candidate will be responsible for managing the research project, ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and reporting requirements; mentoring students and performing other CCPP related duties as assigned.

Required qualifications for this position include: Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or Entomology with experience in Plant Virology and a background in RNA biology particularly plant viruses and their transmission. Candidates must have hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques (nucleic acid extraction, cloning, Agro-infiltration, RT-qPCR, protoplast work, library construction, recombinant protein expression and purification, hybridization, ELISA etc.) as well as knowledge of executing and care of plant and insect transmission experiments in greenhouse, screenhouse, growth chamber, and field. Excellent communication skills to include written communication and ability to compose manuscripts for peer reviewed technical journal publications are expected. Candidates must be able to drive in California and work under hot greenhouse and field conditions. Preferred qualifications include: Experience working with citrus or other woody perennial tree crops. Experience in protoplast extraction and transfection, cloning and sequencing, conducting insect transmission experiments, data analysis and bioinformatics would be considered an asset.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae including a publication list and the names of three current, professional references to include e-mail address and telephone number to Prof. Vidalakis via email to vidalg@ucr.edu with cc to carolyna@ucr.edu and kiran.tnau@gmail.com

Review of applications will commence on November 15, 2021 and proceed until position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications by the above date.

For more information about this position, please contact Carolyn Anderson at carolyna@ucr.edu.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Remote Sensing of Biotic Stress

Posted: 8/9/2021

Description

The University of California, Riverside is recruiting a Postdoctoral Scholar to develop improved tools for the detection of biotic stress (diseases and weeds) in annual crops in the Southwestern U.S. The Scholar will support the USDA-NIFA-funded project “Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Water, Nutrient, Salinity, And Pest Management in The Western U.S.” (https://ai4sa.ucr.edu/). The overall goal of this project is to develop advanced tools for early stress (abiotic and biotic) detection and decision support for crop management. The Scholar will work with agricultural scientists, extension personnel, and growers and other industry clientele to collect imagery via unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and satellites, and georeferenced data on pest outbreaks via field surveys. The Scholar will use these data in collaboration with computer scientists to develop machine learning algorithms for the detection and management of biotic stress. The crops and pest systems to be included in this project are flexible but are expected to be relevant to agriculture in Arizona and California.

Responsibilities

Manage small plot field experiments on detection of diseases or weeds with remote sensing.
Collect imagery of controlled experiments and commercial fields using a UAS and satellite platforms(s).
Collect georeferenced data on the incidence and severity of disease and weed outbreaks.
Collect and assemble weather or environmental data associated with areas of interest, and collate epidemiological or phenological information on diseases and weeds from the literature.
Develop models and/or algorithms to detect the presence of biotic stress (weeds, pathogens) on vegetable crops.
Mentor undergraduate students participating in this project.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in an agricultural science (e.g., plant pathology, weed science), agricultural engineering, computer science, or a related discipline.
Demonstrated ability to independently plan and conduct research, and communicate results at professional meetings and in peer-reviewed journals.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, and the ability to actively participate in a mutually-supportive and respectful team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge and experience in plant pathology, weed science, or pest management.
Experience with agricultural field work and collaborating with growers and industry clientele.
FAA Part 107 certification or experience with UASs.
Knowledge and experience in data science including spatial and temporal analysis of imagery data, GIS, or machine learning.

Appointment

The position is 100% time and available immediately with an expected start date in Fall 2021. The successful candidate will be initially appointed for one year, with funding available for reappointment of up to two additional years based on satisfactory performance. The position will be based on the University of California, Riverside main campus, and will include travel to field locations in Southern California. Information on salary ranges, benefits, and other aspects can be found here.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, current curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references to Dr. Milt McGiffen (milt.mcgiffen@ucr.edu) and Dr. Alexander Putman (alexander.putman@ucr.edu). Review of applications will begin September 6, 2021 and continue until the position is filled.

Additional Information

In the heart of Inland Southern California, UC Riverside is located on nearly 1,200 acres near Box Springs Mountain in Southern California; the park-like campus provides convenient access to the vibrant and growing Inland region. The campus is a living laboratory for the exploration of issues critical to growing communities' air, water, energy, transportation, politics, the arts, history, and culture. UCR gives every student, faculty and staff member the resources to explore, engage, imagine and excel. UC Riverside is recognized as one of the most ethnically diverse research universities in the country boasting several key rankings of which we are extremely proud. For example, UC Riverside is the top university in the United States for social mobility (U.S. News 2020) and is a member of the University Innovation Alliance, the leading national coalition of public research universities committed to improving student success for low-income, first-generation, and students of color.

Questions

Feel free to contact Dr. Milt McGiffen (milt.mcgiffen@ucr.edu) and/or Dr. Alexander Putman (alexander.putman@ucr.edu) with any questions.

Junior Specialist Position

Manosalva Laboratory

Posted: 7/12/2021

The UCR avocado rootstock breeding program is recruiting a highly motivated scientist to work on different research projects recently funded by USDA and various industry partners. The UCR breeding program is a very active and recognized avocado breeding program worldwide. The goal of the program is to develop and release the next generation of avocado rootstocks resistant to biotic (i.e. Phytophthora cinnamomi) and/or abiotic stresses (i.e. salinity, drought) using traditional breeding complemented with genomic-assisted breeding approaches.

Job description. The successful candidate will conduct mainly greenhouse and field work. The candidate will work under the supervision of senior personnel and will work in collaboration with several members from the Manosalva Laboratory as well as collaborators from other institutions. The duties for this position are described below:

Maintenance and cultural care of avocado liners, seedlings, and trees at the greenhouse and fields at UCR (Riverside), South Coast Extension and Research Center (Irvine), and other off- campus cooperator sites on public and private land (Southern and Northern California).
Assist in the establishment of new rootstock trials and collect field data quarterly from all rootstock trials (Southern and Northern California). The data collection will be conducted in collaboration with other lab members.
Conduct a field experiment aiming to test the efficacy of essential oils on controlling plant diseases in avocado growing at organic certified orchards in California.
Conduct the statistical analyses of the field data. This task will be performed under the supervision of senior personnel.
Assist lab members in all the activities related to the screening of avocado for resistance to pathogens and other stressors under laboratory and greenhouse conditions.

Minimum qualifications and requirements for this position.

Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s degree in Biology, Soil and Crop Science, Plant Protection, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, or related areas.
Statistical analysis skills.
Highly organized person that works independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
Possession of valid driver’s license.
This position requires travel outside of normal business hours and overnight travel (1-day to up to one-week trips) to different locations in California (Northern, Central Valley, and Southern). Travel and subsistence expenses will be covered by the program.
Work outdoor in warm weather especially during hot summer months for data collection at the rootstock field trials.
Ability to carry up to 50 pounds.

Preferred qualifications

Experience working with tree crops.
Experience conducting greenhouse and field experiments.
Ability to drive Gator utility vehicles.
Knowledge of using weather stations, GPS and satellite information, as well as sensor agriculture equipment and tools.

How to Apply/Contact. The position is immediately available. Screening will start on July 31st, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position is renewable for an additional year, depending upon performance. Candidates should apply directly to Dr. Patricia Manosalva by submitting a single PDF file containing: a cover letter indicating how you meet the minimum qualifications and skills, a curriculum vitae (CV), and contact information for three references to patricia.manosalva@ucr.edu. The subject of the email should be “Junior Specialist Position.”

Two Postdoctoral Positions- Jin Lab

Posted: 3/10/2021

Two postdoctoral positions supported by a NIH R35 MIRA grant are available immediately in Dr. Hailing Jin’s lab
Position Description: Two postdoctoral researcher positions are available in Dr. Hailing Jin’s Laboratory at University of California, Riverside to study RNA trafficking and extracellular vesicle-mediated communications between plants and pathogens (Science 2018, 360:1126-1129; Science 2013, 342:118-123; Nature Plants 2016, 2:16151; Nature Plants 2021, DOI:10.1038/s41477-021-00863-8). The successful candidate will utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and cell biology approaches to study the functional mechanisms of extracellular vesicles, the transferred RNAs and other molecules in plant immunity and pathogen virulence.

The University of California is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. UC Riverside provides a vibrant intellectual atmosphere and a pleasant working environment, as well as career development activities designed for post-doctoral researchers. The position is initially for one year and renewable upon satisfactory performance. Salary is based on experience according to UC Riverside pay scales with a minimum annual salary of $54,540.

Qualification and Experience
Applicants should have recently received a Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, fungal biology, plant biology or related disciplines. Highly motivated candidates with strong background and experience in RNA biology, vesicle transport and trafficking and/or host-pathogen interactions are encouraged to apply. Good publication record and prior experience in bioinformatics are highly desirable. Good written and oral communication skills and the ability to work well in a collaborative environment are also required.

Application
Please send a single PDF file including a personal statement, a full CV, contact information of three references to: Prof. Hailing Jin at hailingj@ucr.edu. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Positions will remain open until filled.

Postdoctoral Position- Jin Lab

Posted: 3/10/2021

A postdoctoral position supported by a USDA NIFA grant is available immediately in Dr. Hailing Jin’s lab
Position Description: A postdoctoral researcher position is available in the Jin Lab at University of California, Riverside to develop effective solutions to control citrus Huanglongbing (PNAS, 2021, DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2019628118; Plant Biotechnology Journal, 2020, doi: 10.1111/pbi.13502). The successful candidate will utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and cell biology approaches to study the functions of antimicrobial peptides, and other positive and negative regulators of citrus immune responses.

Qualification and Experience
Applicants should have recently received a Ph.D. in molecular biology, plant biology or related disciplines. Highly motivated candidates with strong background and experience in citrus greening, citrus biology, plant immunity and plant bacterial interaction are encouraged to apply. Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to work well in a collaborative environment are also required.

Postdoctoral Position in Viral Immunity

Posted: 3/2/2021

The Morrison lab at the University of California, Riverside, is now accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the area of virus-host interactions.

Research in the Morrison lab focuses on understanding the impact of virus-host interactions on viral pathogenesis and virus-mediated disease progression. Specifically, the Morrison lab studies (1) roles of lung myeloid populations in respiratory virus infections, (2) mechanisms of interferon antagonism by emerging viruses, (3) unknown aspects of interferon signaling regulation, and (4) host responses to viral pathogens. The recruit has the potential to lead ongoing projects in the Morrison lab or propose their own independent idea relevant to ongoing projects in the lab.

Eligible candidates should have, or be close to completing, a Ph.D. or equivalent in immunology, virology, or related fields. Highly motivated individuals with experience in cellular immunology, molecular virology, protein biochemistry, and/or animal experimentation will be given high priority. Additional minimum qualifications include (1) at least one peer-reviewed first-author publication in a related field, (2) willingness to perform animal experiments, (3) effective written and oral communication skills, (4) the ability to work well independently and in a collaborative environment, and (5) a passion for host-virus interaction research. Previous experience with transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and/or bioinformatics is preferred. UC Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.

How to apply: The position could commence as early as May 1, 2021 but no later than August 30, 2021. Screening will begin March 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Salary for first year Postdoctoral Scholars begins at $54,540; additional Postdoctoral employment information is available at https://graduate.ucr.edu/postdoctoral-studies. All UC Riverside Postdoctoral Scholars are eligible to participate in the Postdoctoral Scholar Benefit Plans, which include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. Interested applicants should apply directly to Dr. Juliet Morrison via email at juliet.morrison@ucr.edu by submitting a single PDF containing: a curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter indicating your research interests and how you meet the minimum qualifications, and a list of three references and their contact information. The subject of the email should be “Postdoctoral Position in Viral Immunity”.

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Postdoctoral Scholar position in fungal ecology

Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, UCR

Posted: 1/12/2021

The Glassman Lab at the University of California, Riverside is now accepting applications for a postdoctoral scholar position focused on fungal ecology research. The Glassman lab studies ectomycorrhizal, arbuscular mycorrhizal, and saprobic fungal ecology, bacterial-fungal interactions, decomposition, the impacts of fires on fungi and bacteria, and the use of microbes to improve post-fire regeneration. The recruit has the potential to lead ongoing projects in the Glassman lab or propose their own independent idea relevant to ongoing projects in the Glassman lab. We use a combination of approaches including fieldwork, greenhouse work, culturing, molecular ecology, next generation sequencing, bioinformatics and multivariate statistical analyses to advance fungal ecology. For more information on the Glassman lab please visit our website: https://sydneyglassman.wordpress.com.

Applicants should have, or be close to receiving, a PhD in microbial ecology, mycology, molecular ecology, or a closely related area. Applicants with experience working with arbuscular and/or ectomycorrhizal fungi will be given high priority. Additional minimum qualifications include: at least one peer-reviewed first-author publication in a related field, willingness to perform field work in California, effective written and oral communication skills, ability to work well independently and as part of a team, and passion for fungi. Additional necessary qualifications include: bacterial or fungal culturing, expertise in ecological experimental design, programming in R, advanced multivariate statistical analysis, bioinformatics, and molecular techniques including DNA extractions, PCRs, and 16S or ITS sequencing. Experience with or desire to learn network analysis, metagenomics, genomics, or transcriptomics would be a bonus.

UC Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification.

How to apply/contact: The position could commence as early as April 15, 2021 but no later than July 15, 2021. Screening will begin February 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Salary scales for first-year postdoctoral scholars begin at $53,460 and are available on this website (https://graduate.ucr.edu/postdoctoral-studies). All UC Riverside Postdoctoral scholars are eligible to participate in the Postdoctoral Scholar Benefit Plans, which include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. Candidates should apply directly to Dr. Sydney Glassman via email to sydneyg@ucr.edu by submitting a single PDF file containing: Curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letter indicating your research interests and how you meet the minimum qualifications, and listing the contact information of three references. The subject of the email should be “Postdoctoral Scholar in Fungal Ecology”.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Plant Biology

University of California, Riverside

Job Details: A post-doctoral research opportunity is available in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside to study the mechanism of plant response to various types of stresses using integrated molecular, genetic, bioinformatic and metabolomic approaches in the model plant Arabidopsis. We are seeking a motivated and skilled postdoc to conduct research that focuses on plant response to biotic and abiotic stress, and cross talk with phytohormones.

In addition to conducting research, the incumbent will have roles in training undergraduate and graduate researchers within the lab, preparing manuscripts and cooperating with other team members and collaborators.

Job Requirements: A Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, Plant Biology, or a closely related field. The position requires significant experience in working with Arabidopsis thaliana and strong analytical ability. Experience in abiotic stress will be an advantage. The successful candidate must possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills, including a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. Expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics will be required. Ideally, the candidate should have received their Ph.D. within the past 1-2 years.

To Apply: Please send a single .pdf file that includes: (1) cover letter detailing your research experiences, interests and career goals; (2) currriculum vitae, and (3) contact information for three references to Dr. Emma Gachomo (emma.gachomo@ucr.edu).

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Opportunities

Interested in working in the department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology? See the open job positions below.

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Assistant Professional Researcher in Molecular Gut Physiology and Microbiology

Assistant Professor of Extension in Plant Pathology

Specialist in Microbiology

Assistant Specialist in Systems Engineering for Plant Pathology

Assistant Specialist in Fungal Ecology

Postdoctoral Scholar in Plant Virology

Postdoctoral Scholar in Remote Sensing of Biotic Stress

Junior Specialist Position

Two Postdoctoral Positions- Jin Lab

Postdoctoral Position- Jin Lab

Postdoctoral Position in Viral Immunity

Postdoctoral Scholar position in fungal ecology

Postdoctoral Scholar in Plant Biology

College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences