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ID 2960160

Business Unit North Dakota State University Location Fargo Posted 11/02/2026 Full/Part Time Full-Time Department AES Plant Path, Micro &Biotech Close Date Open Until Filled Add to My Favorite Jobs Email this Job Position Information

DESCRIPTION

The Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology and Biotechnology, North Dakota State University, has available a postdoctoral research scientist position in the laboratory of Dr. Barney Geddes to work on rhizobia and plant-microbe symbiosis. The Geddes Lab studies the genetics, engineering, and ecology of nitrogen-fixing symbioses. The selected candidate will contribute to projects spanning the microbial ecology of host-symbiont interactions, the genetic engineering of bacterial symbionts, and the phenotyping of plant-microbe interactions using next-generation sequencing (including amplicon/community sequencing and RNA-seq). The researcher will be responsible for bacterial strain construction and engineering, symbiosis and nodulation assays, and the design and analysis of sequencing experiments, with the specific project focus matched to the candidate's strengths and interests. The researcher will be expected to mentor students, interpret and analyze data, and publish results in peer-reviewed journals. This position is available for one year, with subsequent years contingent upon funding and performance.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Applicants must have an earned Ph.D. in microbiology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, plant-microbe interactions, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should possess prior experience in microbial molecular biology and bacterial genetics, and with next-generation sequencing and analysis (e.g., amplicon/community sequencing, RNA-seq, or genome sequencing). Candidates are expected to work independently and as part of a team, and to initiate and accomplish research goals including publication of results in refereed scientific journals.

PREFERRED

Experience with rhizobia-legume symbiosis or other plant-microbe/root symbiosis systems (e.g., nodulation, mycorrhizae); a background in microbial ecology, symbiosis genetics, or natural genetic variation in host-symbiont interactions; bacterial strain engineering skills (cloning, strain construction, genome editing); familiarity with microbiome/community-sequencing data analysis and bioinformatics; and a strong publication record with excellent communication and writing skills.

TO APPLY

For full consideration, interested individuals should submit the following materials: 1) a letter of application discussing how the stated qualifications are met; 2) a detailed curriculum vitae with a list of publications; and 3) contact details for at least three references. If you have any questions about the position, please email Dr. Barney Geddes, barney.geddes@ndsu.edu. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Our commitment to caring for our employees isn't just words—it's proven. In NDSU's most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development. " My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person " and " I have the opportunities to learn and grow", were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you'll experience here.

NDSU OFFERS OUTSTANDING BENEFITS!

Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success. Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits: Health & Wellness 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation Exceptional Retirement Plan Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26% , depending on position (One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows. Time Away & Support Generous annual leave , sick leave , and 10 paid holidays Employee Assistance Program for confidential support Supportive work-life balance Education Benefits That Grow With You Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year) 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents Additional Optional Benefits Supplemental Life, Dental & Vision Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)

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Benefits | Human Resources |

NDSU About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment. NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country. NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live. NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a U.S. veteran, or participation in lawful activity off the employer's premises during nonworking hours which is not in direct conflict with the essential business-related interests of the employer, as applicable. Direct inquiries to Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 100, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu .

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

Veteran's Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information:

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu .