Fellow (Post Doc)

The successful candidate will contribute to an innovative project focused on developing a novel viral vector for gene and guide RNA delivery into cereal crops, including sorghum. Our lab recently identified a new plant RNA virus infecting cereals. This discovery provides a unique opportunity to explore the virus biology and leverage its potential as a delivery vector for virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and gene-editing applications in monocots, including major cereal species. The position offers excellent opportunities for both basic and translational research.

Responsibilities may include:
* Design and perform advanced molecular cloning.
* Facilitate transient expression of modified viral RNAs in plants and protoplasts.
* Conduct advanced PCR-based assays, northern and western blot analysis.
* Constructing cDNA libraries for high-throughput sequencing and perform data analysis.
* Utilize confocal microscopy for research purposes.
*Collaborate effectively with team members and external partners and assist in mentoring
graduate and/or undergraduate students as needed.
* Prepare scientific manuscripts reporting research methodology, results, and interpretations.
* Assist the PI in annual report preparation for the funding agency.

The Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University comprises a large and varying group of scientists with excellent reputations in research, teaching, and extension. Our strengths are in applied plant pathology, microbiology, biosecurity, disease diagnosis, management, host-parasite resistance genetics, pathogen and microbe genetics and genomics, genomics and biotechnology.
Kansas State University is located in Manhattan, KS, in the scenic tallgrass prairies of the Flint Hills of NE Kansas. Manhattan is 125 miles west of Kansas City and 50 miles west of Topeka. Kansas State University is the nation's first land-grant institution and currently enrolls ~24,000 students. Check the local Convention & Visitors Bureau website (http://www.manhattancvb.org/) for more information.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Virology, Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, or a related field.
  The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in molecular biology techniques including advanced molecular cloning.
• Experience in engineering viral vectors.
• Expertise in cDNA library preparation for high-throughput sequencing and data analysis.
• Experience in protoplast isolation and transfection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, teamwork, and organizational abilities.

Sponsorship eligibility:

This position is eligible for sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

• Letter of Interest
• Resume
• Name, phone number, and email address of three professional references

Applications close on: July 2, 2026

$50,000 - $58,000