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Faculty Positions
Assistant Professor of Teaching in Microbiology
Posted: 11/22/2023
The Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Teaching position (also termed Lecturer with Potential Security of Employment, LPSOE) beginning July 1, 2024. The emphasis will be on teaching classes in microbiology.
The LPSOE series parallels that of the traditional Professor series but with emphasis on excellence in teaching and other instruction-related activities. Individuals in this position are expected to provide outstanding teaching and engage in professional activity and service related to the pedagogical mission of the university, including leadership in maintaining UC’s academic excellence, facilitating student success, and expanding learning opportunities for students beyond campus. Faculty in this series are full members of the Academic Senate. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
The duties of the successful applicant will consist of lecture and laboratory instruction in upper division undergraduate microbiology courses (six 10-week courses per academic year), innovation in undergraduate teaching, curriculum development for existing or new courses, supervision and training of teaching and lab assistants, and participation in program assessment, pedagogy, and other student enrichment programs for the UCR Microbiology major. In addition to general microbiology courses, there may be opportunities to teach courses in specialized areas depending on the candidate's expertise and interest.
The UC salary consists of a base pay of $74,600 - $97,200 for Assistant Professors and additional off-scale to be commensurate with market value, qualifications and experiences. The off-scale portion of the salary will be maintained as long as satisfactory academic progress is made. Additionally, the off-scale will be maintained subject to market adjustments to the UC salary scale.
Required qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include: Demonstrated excellence in teaching.
Preferred qualifications for this position include: Experience with curriculum development, innovation in teaching, science education, educational research and/or educational grant writing, and a commitment to the educational success of college students, especially underrepresented and first-generation college students.
Additional qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of hire include: Ph.D. in Microbiology or a closely related discipline.
Advancement through the Professor of Teaching ranks is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations occurring every two to three years, each of which includes substantial peer input. Scholarly activity is strongly considered for the promotion and merit process, and may consist of
microbiology education, scholarship of teaching and learning, preparation of extramural grants to support curricular reforms and studies of student success, and/or the development of undergraduate research initiatives. Helping to implement these curricular changes will constitute additional scholarly opportunities for the successful applicant, as would performing community outreach and/or collaborating with other faculty.
To apply: Submit all materials to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01847
● Cover Letter addressed to the search committee (1 page maximum)
● Curriculum Vitae
● Statement of Teaching (3 page maximum) - Applicants should summarize their teaching philosophy and teaching experiences.
● Statement of Research/Scholarly Activities (2 page maximum) - Applicants should summarize professional and scholarly experience for the position, such as relevant subject matter training and research.
● Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence (2 page maximum) – 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.
● Demonstrated evidence of teaching excellence, including student evaluations
● At time of submission, applicants should provide contact information and request letters of recommendation from 3 referees to be submitted through AP Recruit. Letters will need to be submitted to AP recruit from the letter writers by January 15, 2024.
Review of applications will commence on January 15, 2024, 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, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, at ansel.hsiao@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Melissa Resendez, Academic Personnel, at melissa.resendez@ucr.edu. For more information about the Department, please visit the following link: https://microplantpath.ucr.edu/.
The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) as well as the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HRSU). 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 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 University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
Assistant Professor in Fungal Biology
Posted: 11/06/2023
The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California Riverside invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Professor position in Fungal Biology. We invite candidates with broad expertise in mycology including but not limited to host-pathogen interactions, symbiosis biology, metabolism and biotechnology, development/morphology, ecology/climate change, and evolution. The final candidate will utilize systems biology, genomics, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, next generation sequencing, advanced statistical modeling, and/or metabolomics approaches in their research, examining fungal species or complexes of fungi with hosts or other microbes (microbiomes). The position is an academic year (9-month) appointment in the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences housed on UCR campus and available to start as early as July 1, 2024. The candidate is expected to establish an internationally recognized, externally funded research program, to work in an integrative multidisciplinary environment, to communicate their work effectively to a broader public, to teach undergraduate and graduate courses, to mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and to participate in departmental and campus service.
The UC salary consists of a base pay of $74,600 - $97,200 for Assistant Professors and additional off-scale to be commensurate with market value, qualifications and experiences. The off-scale portion of the salary will be maintained as long as satisfactory academic progress is made. Additionally, the off-scale will be maintained subject to market adjustments to the UC salary scale. Appointment level and salary are commensurate with experience.
Required qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include: a Ph.D. in Fungal Biology, Mycology, Microbiology, Pathology or a closely-related discipline; a record of strong research productivity and scholarship; the ability to teach mycology, microbiology, genetics, or other related classes; and excellent communication skills.
Preferred qualifications for this position include: Postdoctoral experience and experience of teaching undergraduate and graduate classes are highly desired.
Advancement through the Assistant Professor 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 a Cover Letter describing background and interests, Curriculum Vitae, Statement of Research/Scholarly Activities with solid evidence of a Future Research Plan (3 page maximum), Statement of Teaching Philosophy (2 page maximum), Statement on Contributions to Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (2 page maximum), and 3-5 letters of recommendation (due by January 6, 2024) to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01824. Review of applications will commence on January 6, 2024, 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. Hailing Jin, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, at hailingj@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Melissa Resendez, Academic Personnel, at melissa.resendez@ucr.edu.
The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) as well as the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HRSU). 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 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 University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
Postdoctoral Positions
Postdoctoral Scholar in Fusarium Biology and Management
Posted: 1/16/2024
Description
The University of California, Riverside is recruiting a Postdoctoral Scholar in biology and management of the lettuce Fusarium wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae in California. The Scholar will play a key role in Specialty Crop Block Grant- and commodity-funded efforts to respond to the emergence of Fusarium wilt as a production constraint to lettuce in coastal California. The Scholar will characterize newly-detected variation in host virulence among the pathogen population using both phenotypic and genomic approaches. As part of a collaborative team that includes breeders, plant pathologists at other institutions, and extension personnel, the Scholar will support field trials to evaluate commercial cultivars and resistant germplasm, and efforts to develop assays to diagnose race variants. Professional development opportunities available to the Scholar include grant proposal writing, interaction with industry stakeholders, and travel to national conferences.
Responsibilities
- Perform greenhouse experiments to identify pathogenic race and characterize novel race types.
- Perform population genomic analysis of race variants and the overall population using both short- and long-read sequencing.
- Develop protocols to increase the throughput of virulence phenotyping.
- Assist with data collection from cultivar or breeding field trials, and with sample collection to expand the pathogen isolate collection.
- Analyze data, and prepare conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
- Assist with mentoring staff and students participating in this project.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Microbiology, or a closely related discipline by start date, with less than three years of postgraduate research experience by start date.
- Experience with fungal plant pathogens and with standard molecular wet lab techniques.
- 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 with Fusarium oxysporum or similar soilborne pathogens.
- Knowledge and experience in population genetics or bioinformatics, and applied data science using R and SAS.
- Experience conducting pathogenicity experiments with fungal plant pathogens.
- Experience with agricultural field work and collaborating with growers and industry clientele.
Appointment
The position is 100% time and available immediately with an expected start date in Winter or Spring 2024. The successful candidate will be initially appointed for two years, with the possibility of additional years contingent on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The position will be based on the University of California, Riverside main campus, and will include travel to field locations in coastal 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 both Dr. Alexander Putman (alexander.putman@ucr.edu) and Dr. Jason Stajich (jason.stajich@ucr.edu). Review of applications will begin February 7 2024 and continue until the position is filled.
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 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.
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
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. Alexander Putman (alexander.putman@ucr.edu) or Dr. Jason Stajich (jason.stajich@ucr.edu) with any questions.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant-Microbe Interactions
Posted: 12/18/2023
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 plant-microbial interactions with emphasis on plant response to biotic and abiotic stress. This research seeks to understand the mechanisms regulating plant microbial associations using molecular biology, biochemistry, genomics, genetics, and cell biology approaches.
Job Requirements: The successful candidate will primarily focus on the biochemical and functional characterization of several plant and microbe candidate genes associated with response to abiotic stress. The postdoc will integrate the data from transcriptomics, and metabolomics studies conducted in the lab and use several functional genomics approaches to determine the function of these candidate genes. This position entails laboratory and greenhouse work. The appointee will analyze large datasets, write progress reports, and publications in a timely manner. The postdoc will work in a team that includes other postdocs, assistants, national and international collaborators, graduate, and undergraduate students.
Minimum qualifications:
- A Ph.D. in plant biology, plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related areas.
- Highly motivated candidates with an interest in using cutting-edge functional genomic, proteomic, and biochemistry approaches to the study of plant-microbe interactions are encouraged to apply.
- Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA- and RNA-based techniques) demonstrated by publications.
- Experience working with Arabidopsis and/or soybean demonstrated by publications.
- Expertise coding in R and/or Python
- Excellent oral and written communication, since this position involves writing manuscripts and assisting the PI in grant writing activities and progress reports for funding agencies.
- A record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications.
- Work independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred qualifications:
- Expertise with sterile technique and bacterial or fungal culturing techniques.
- Experience with microscopy techniques.
- Experience with execution of bioinformatic pipelines for genome and transcriptome sequencing analyses.
- Demonstrated skills and experience analyzing Next Generation Sequencing data.
How to apply: Candidates should apply directly to Dr. Emma Gachomo via email to emma.gachomo@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. Please name your PDF as such: “LastName_FirstName_postdocapp2023.pdf”. The subject of the email should be “Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant Microbe Interactions”: Screening will start on December 15, 2023, and will continue until the position is filled. All UC Riverside Postdoctoral scholars are eligible to participate in the Postdoctoral Scholar Benefit Plans, which include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
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 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 Researcher
Posted: 12/13/2023
Job Details: A post-doctoral research position is available in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside to study molecular plant-bacterial interactions with emphasis on functional genomics. This research seeks to investigate the genetic drivers of host-specific virulence among the subspecies of the phytopathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, using molecular biology, computational biology, genomics, genetics, biochemistry, metabolomic, and cell biology approaches.
Job Requirements: The successful candidate will primarily focus on the biochemical, functional characterization of several plant and pathogen candidate genes associated with host-specific virulence among X. fastidiosa subspecies. The postdoc will integrate the data from transcriptomics, metabolomics, and culturomics studies conducted in the lab and use several functional genomics approaches to determine the function of these candidate genes. This position entails laboratory and greenhouse work. The appointee will analyze large datasets, write progress reports, and publications in a timely manner. The postdoc will work in a team that includes other postdocs, assistants, national and international collaborators, graduate, and undergraduate students. The position is initially for one year, but renewable upon satisfactory performance.
Minimum qualifications:
• A Ph.D. in plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, microbial genomics, molecular biology, and a keen interest in host-microbe interactions.
• Good lab bench work experience, including microbiology, molecular biology, genetics skills.
• Highly motivated candidates with an interest in using cutting-edge functional genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and biochemistry approaches to the study of plant-microbe interactions are encouraged to apply.
• Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA- and RNA-based techniques) demonstrated by publications.
• Experience with basic biochemistry techniques routinely used in MPMI studies (i.e. protein expression, yeast two hybrids, and Co-immunoprecipitation studies) demonstrated by publications.
• Additional work experience or knowledge about plants and insects as bacterial hosts would be an advantage.
• Excellent oral and written communication, since this position involves writing manuscripts and assisting the PI in grant writing activities and progress reports for funding agencies.
• A record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications.
• Work independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred qualifications:
• Expertise with sterile techniques and bacterial culturing techniques.
• Experience with genetic transformation and mutagenesis in bacteria.
• Experience with microscopy techniques.
• Experience with execution of bioinformatic pipelines for genome and transcriptome sequencing analyses.
• Demonstrated skills and experience analyzing Next Generation Sequencing data.
How to apply: Candidates should apply directly to Dr. Olakunle Olawole via email to olakunlo@ucr.edu. Attach to your email 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. Please name your PDF in the order “LastName_FirstName_xylellapostdoc.pdf”. The subject of the email should be “’Application for Xylella Postdoc”: Screening will start on January 2, 2024, and will continue until the position is filled. All UC Riverside Postdoctoral scholars are eligible to participate in the Postdoctoral Scholar Benefit Plans, which include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) as well as the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HRSU). 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 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.
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Plant Microbe Interactions (MPMI)
Posted: 4/6/2022
(Manosalva Lab)
The Manosalva lab is seeking for a highly motivated and skilled post-doctoral fellow to work on elucidating the molecular basis of plant immunity to Phytophthora spp. and P. cinnamomi pathogenicity and host adaptation using model plants and crops.
The most notorious oomycetes belong to the Phytophthora genus (the so-called “plant destroyers”), which are arguably the most devastating pathogens for agriculture. The Manosalva lab’s research portfolio includes studying the mechanisms underlaying Phytophthora cinnamomi pathogenicity, host adaptation, and plant immunity to P. infestans and P. cinnamomi using molecular, genetics, biochemical, and oomic approaches to identify plant and/or pathogen targets that can be used to engineer resistant crops through conventional breeding or genetic engineering.
Job Description: The successful candidate will primarily focus on the biochemical and functional characterization of several plant and pathogen candidate genes associated with resistance and pathogenicity respectively using model plants and crops. To do this, the postdoc will integrate the data from comparative genomics and transcriptomics studies conducted in the lab and will use several functional genomics approaches to determine the function of these candidate genes. In addition, the postdoc will explore new approaches including P. cinnamomi transformation, to conduct the functional studies of pathogen genes. This position entails laboratory and greenhouse work. The appointee will analyze large datasets, write progress reports, and publications in a timely manner. The postdoc will work in a team that includes other postdocs, assistants, national and international collaborators, graduate, and undergraduate students. The position is initially for one year, renewable upon satisfactory performance.
Minimum qualifications:
- A Ph.D. in plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related areas.
- Highly motivated candidates with an interest in using cutting-edge functional genomic, proteomic, and biochemistry approaches to the study of plant-microbe interactions are encouraged to apply.
- Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA- and RNA-based techniques) demonstrated by publications.
- Experience with basic biochemistry techniques routinely used in MPMI studies (i.e. protein expression, yeast two hybrids, and Co-immunoprecipitation studies) demonstrated by publications.
- Excellent oral and written communication, since this position involves writing manuscripts and assisting the PI in grant writing activities and progress reports for funding agencies.
- A record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications.
- Work independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience/knowledge related to plant-oomycete molecular interactions and effectoromics will be a plus.
- Experience with genetic transformation in plant and/or microbes.
- Experience with microscopy techniques.
- Experience with execution of bioinformatic pipelines for genome and transcriptome sequencing analyses.
- Demonstrated skills and experience analyzing Next Generation Sequencing data.
How to Apply/Contact: The position could commence as early as May but no later than June 2022. Screening will start on May 1st 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience (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. Patricia Manosalva via email to patricia.manosalva@ucr.edu by submitting a single PDF file containing: Curriculum vitae (CV) listing the contact information of three references and cover letter indicating your research interest and how you meet the minimum qualifications for this position. The subject of the email should be “MPMI Postdoctoral Scholar”.
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. UCR is a worldclass 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.
University of California COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy: Job Postings/New Hires From Outside UC: 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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant Pathology
Posted: 10/20/2023
(Jin Lab)
Job Description: A postdoctoral researcher position is available in the Jin Lab at University of California, Riverside, USA to develop effective strategies 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, genomics and cell biology approaches to study the functions and molecular mechanism of antimicrobial peptides, and other positive and negative regulators of citrus immune responses.
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 very competitive and is based on experience according to UC Riverside pay scales.
Qualifications and Experience:
• Applicants should have recently received a Ph.D. in molecular biology, plant biology, plant pathology 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.
• Good written and oral communication skills and the ability to work well in a collaborative environment are also desired.
How to Apply/Contact: 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.
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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Two Postdoctoral Fellows in Plant Pathology
Posted: 10/20/2023
(Jin Lab)
Job Description: Two postdoctoral fellow positions are available in Dr. Hailing Jin’s Laboratory at University of California, Riverside, USA to study RNA trafficking and extracellular vesicle-mediated communications between plants and pathogens, or within microbial populations (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, Nature Communications 2023, doi: 10.1038/s41467-023-40093-4). The successful candidate will utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, genomics and cell biology approaches to study the function and molecular mechanism of cross-kingdom/species trafficking of different RNAs and other molecules between interacting organisms.
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. UCR offers competitive salary based on experience according to UC Riverside pay scales.
Qualifications and Experience:
• Applicants should have recently received a Ph.D. in molecular biology, fungal biology, plant biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines.
• Highly motivated candidates with strong background and experience in RNA biology, vesicle trafficking, and/or host-pathogen interactions are encouraged to apply.
• Good publication record, good written and oral communication, and prior experience in bioinformatics are highly desirable.
How to Apply/Contact: 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.
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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Research Positions
Assistant Specialists in Avocado Rootstock Research and Breeding Program
(2 Positions)
Posted: 12/18/2023
The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for two full-time Assistant Specialist positions to conduct applied research for the Manosalva Lab in Riverside, CA. This position will start as soon as possible. The purpose of this position is to conduct research related to avocado restock and breeding.
The current base pay range for this position is $59,200 - $65,900.
Basic qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include:
- Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science or Horticultural Science
- Experience in working with avocado rootstocks and its major pathogens including Phytophthora cinnamomi, Anthracnose and in Avocado Branch Canker pathogens
- Experience screening avocado for pathogen resistance and conduct avocado greenhouse and fields rootstock trials
- Experience working in avocado breeding activities, knowledge of using weather stations, GPS, satellite information, and sensor agriculture equipment tools
- Experience in P. cinnamomi isolation and diagnostics using molecular tools
- Have knowledge on testing organic products to control avocado diseases in organic orchards.
Additional qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of hire include:
- 2 years of experience in collecting and statistically analyzing field data
- Experience leading and/or conducting field and lab experiments
- Have research leadership and independence to conduct experiments under greenhouse and field conditions
- Work in research projects conducted in collaboration with more than five scientists or PIs at several USA institutions
- Experience in preparing written industry reports and deliver research presentations
Preferred qualifications for this position include:
- Experience using genetic biotechnology and statistical analysis to identify links between gene(s) and phenotypes
- Knowledge of Python coding language and image manipulation software
The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. UCR is a member institution of the American Association of Universities (AAU) as well as the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities (HSRU). 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.
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 a CV, Statement of Past and/or Planned Future Contributions to Advancing Diversity and Inclusive Excellence, and the contact information for 3 references to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01859. Review of applications will commence on January 18, 2024, 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. Patricia Manosalva, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, at patricia.manosalva@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Melissa Resendez, Academic Personnel, at melissa.redsendez@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 University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
Assistant Specialist in Plant Pathology
Posted: 11/2/2023
The Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Specialist position to conduct basic research on Molecular Detection and Diagnosis of Pathogens affecting citrus and avocado for the Fatemeh Khodadadi’s Lab in Riverside, CA.
Job Description. The purpose of this position is to conduct a wide range of basic and applied research on the main fungal and bacterial pathogens causing diseases on subtropical trees including but not limited to citrus, avocado and grapes in California. The successful candidate will primarily focus on characterization, molecular detection and identification of pathogens using qPCR and Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), genome analysis, molecular interaction between plant-pathogen, plant-vector, and pathogen-vector on a broad range of fungal and bacterial diseases including but not limited to Sun blotch viroid, anthracnose and Botryosphaeria species associated with Branch Canker and Dieback of Avocado, causal agents of anthracnose disease etc.
This position entails laboratory and greenhouse/field work. The appointee will analyze large datasets, write progress reports, write grants and publications in a timely manner and present research findings in professional meetings and scientific conferences. The postdoc will work in a team that includes other postdocs, assistants, national and international collaborators, graduate, and undergraduate students. This is a 1-year renewable position and contingent on performance and funding.
Minimum qualifications
· A Ph.D. in plant pathology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or related areas.
· Highly motivated candidates with an interest in using molecular biology techniques to the study of plant-fungi/bacteria interactions and genome analysis are encouraged to apply.
· Demonstrated skill and practical experience in pathogen detection using qRT-PCR, Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
· Extensive experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA- and RNA-based techniques) demonstrated by publications.
· A record of scientific accomplishment by peer-reviewed publications.
· Work independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
How to Apply/Contact: The position could commence on January 1st, 2024. Candidates should apply directly to Dr. Fatemeh Khodadadi via email to fatemeh.khodadadi@ucr.edu by submitting a single PDF file containing: Curriculum vitae (CV) listing the contact information of three references and cover letter indicating your research interest and how you meet the minimum qualifications for this position. The subject of the email should be “Molecular Detection and Diagnosis of Pathogens”.
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. 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.
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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Junior Specialist I Position in Molecular Biology
Posted: 9/25/23
The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for a Junior Specialist I position [full-time] in molecular biology techniques to conduct applied research for the Degnan Lab in Riverside, CA. This position will ideally start on October 17th, 2023. The purpose of this position is RNA extraction, cloning, and sequencing for the Degnan laboratory. The final candidate will possess specialized skills in basic molecular biology techniques. The position also requires the ability to work independently and interpret and implement new techniques and their analyses in collaboration with the PI and/or other Hansen lab members.
Required qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include: baccalaureate degree in molecular biology/ biology/ microbiology (or equivalent degree) and training and experience in molecular biology techniques. Also the individual must be highly organized and can wors independently and in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred qualifications for this position include: RNA/DNA extractions, PCR, cloning, 5’ RACE, and bioinformatics experience.
To apply: submit a c.v./resume with contact information for 2-3 professional references to patrick.degnan@ucr.edu. Position is available immediately; we plan to hire by October 2023.
For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to October 1st, 2023.
Advancement through the Specialist position ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years.
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 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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Assistant Project Scientist in Fungi-Plant Interaction
Posted: 6/1/23
(Jin Lab)
The Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California invites applicants for a full-time Assistant Project Scientist in Fungi-plant interaction to conduct applied research for the Hailing Jin Lab in Riverside, CA. This position will start on 8/1/23. The purpose of this position is to conduct research on Intercellular and Intracellular RNA Trafficking and Cross-kingdom RNA communication. Experience in extracellular vesicles from plants and fungal pathogens are highly desired. The final candidate will be responsible for performing all the experiments planned for the projects. A reasonable estimate for this position is $68,400 - $87,000.
Required qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of application include: Ph.D. in Biology.
Preferred qualifications for this position include: Experience in extracellular vesicles and sRNA profiling and imaging is highly preferred.
Additional qualifications for this position that must be met by the date of hire include: The candidate should have extensive experience on RNA biology and plant-microbial interaction.
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 your CV and Statement of Diversity to https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01718. Review of applications will commence on 7/1/23, 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. Hailing Jin, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, at hailingj@ucr.edu. For questions on application procedures and requirements, please contact Melissa Resendez, Academic Personnel, at melissa.resendez@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 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. Please refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for the deadlines applicable to new University of California employees. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
Junior Specialist Position
Posted: 7/12/2021
(Manosalva Lab)
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Staff Positions
Lab Manager/Assistant Position in Plant Pathology
Posted: 10/28/2022
(Khodadadi Lab)
The Khodadadi lab in the Microbiology and Plant Pathology Department at UC Riverside (https://plantpath.ucr.edu/) is seeking a motivated, organized, detail-oriented research technician to work on the molecular and applied activities of plant fungal and bacterial pathogens. We are open to hiring at multiple levels of experience: therefore, applicants with either a bachelor’s or Master’s are welcome to apply. The specialist will be responsible for 1) working with the lab team and leadership to run tests, analyze results, and report on data findings 2) purchasing supplies and maintaining chemical and lab safety standards for the lab 3) training undergraduate and graduate students in molecular methods 4) conducting field work and/or greenhouse work 5) growing bacterial and fungal cultures and making stocks 6) setting up lab/field experiments with fungal and bacterial cultures 7) performing DNA extractions from cultures, soils, and roots and performing PCR and qPCR for bacteria and fungi 11) performing basic bioinformatics associated with amplicon sequencing, and 12) keeping the lab neat and organized.
Required qualifications at time of application for this position include:
• Bachelor’s, or master’s degree in plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, biotecgnology, or related field is required.
• Experience as a lab assistant, or relevant experience in a lab environment • Fluent in oral and written English
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record
• Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently
• Able to work self-sufficiently or as an active member of a team
• Robust computer skills; Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
• Must be comfortable working with hazardous materials and must comply with all health and safety regulations
• Able to work evening hours, weekends, and extended shifts if needed
• Knowledge of sterile technique, experience with microbial culturing and expertise in pipetting and troubleshooting DNA extractions and PCR
• Interest in training undergraduates and graduate students and performing a mix of field work and benchwork is required.
Preferred qualifications for this position include:
• Experience with all of the above responsibilities (1-12) is not necessary but please indicate in your cover letter which of the above you have experience with and which you are interested in learning.
• Interest in fungi and bacteria or desire to learn about these organisms is a plus.
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 curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letter indicating your research interests and how you meet the required or preferred qualifications and provide the contact information of three references to Dr. Fatemeh Khodadadi at fatemeh.khodadadi@ucr.edu.
The position could commence as early as December 1, 2022. The position will be initially for one year with the hope that specialist will stay for multiple years if mutually desired. Screening will begin November 10, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date. All UC employees receive comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/.
For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Fatemeh Khodadadi, Chair of the Search Committee, Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology, at fatemeh.khodadadi@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.
EEO/AA/ADA/Vets Employer