USDA-ARS Postdoctoral Fellowship: Engineering Plant for Enhanced Crop Production/Disease

Project Description:

The

USDA-ARS

laboratory in Wapato, Washington is seeking a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral researcher to join an innovative research team developing a transformative platform in plant biotechnology. Our group is pioneering a novel approach based on engineered "Symbionts" —non-pathogenic, gall-like structures formed through controlled expression of plant growth regulatory (PGR) genes derived from Agrobacterium tumefaciens . Unlike traditional genetic modification strategies, these Symbionts are vascularly integrated with the host plant and function as living bioreactors, enabling localized production and delivery of beneficial molecules. This platform represents a new paradigm for enhancing crop productivity, resilience, and protection against pathogens. Research Focus & Opportunities The successful candidate will contribute to advancing this platform through a combination of molecular biology, plant engineering, and translational applications.

Areas of work include:

Design and assembly of plasmid constructs for targeted gene expression Plant transformation and development of engineered phenotypes Manipulation of plant metabolic and signaling pathways to produce protective or bioactive compounds Development of Symbiont-based strategies to suppress or eliminate plant pathogens Phenotypic and physiological characterization of engineered plants Primary work will focus on cherry , with parallel development and rapid testing in model systems including Arabidopsis thaliana , Nicotiana benthamiana , and tomato. Optimization of Therapeutic Molecule Production Engineer and refine Symbiont systems to achieve high-yield, stable, and uniform production of targeted bioactive compounds, including antimicrobial peptides and other defense molecules. Enhanced In Planta Delivery Systems Elucidate and optimize mechanisms governing the movement of Symbiont-derived molecules into host vascular tissues (particularly phloem), enabling efficient systemic distribution and biological efficacy. Discovery of Anti-Phytoplasma Agents Identify, screen, and functionally characterize molecules capable of targeting and suppressing phytoplasmas, including those responsible for X-disease in economically important crops.

Develop and optimize scalable production strategies—such as Symbiont-derived tissue cultures and temporary immersion systems—to enable high-throughput and cost-effective generation of therapeutic molecules for agricultural deployment. Responsibilities Development of Scalable Production Platforms Design, implement, and optimize systems for large-scale production of Symbiont-derived molecules, including in vitro culture systems and plant-based platforms. Experimental Design & Execution Conceive and perform rigorous experiments integrating in vitro and in planta approaches to advance Symbiont engineering and function. Advanced Technical Applications Utilize and further develop cutting-edge techniques in molecular biology, microbiology, and plant physiology, including plant transformation, plasmid engineering, and phenotypic analysis.

Analyze complex datasets, draw meaningful conclusions, and lead the preparation of high-impact manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

Present findings at national and international conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.

Work closely with an interdisciplinary team of scientists, contributing to a highly collaborative and innovation-driven research environment.

Data Analysis & Scientific Communication Dissemination of Research Collaborative Research Qualifications:

US Citizenship:

Applicants must be citizens of the United States. Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field. Strong background in plant tissue culture, molecular cloning, and gene expression analysis. Experience with Agrobacterium -mediated transformation and plant genetic engineering is highly desirable. Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Required Expertise & Skills Development We are seeking candidates with a strong foundation in molecular plant biology , ideally with demonstrated experience in plant genetic engineering, host-microbe interactions, or related fields. This position offers the opportunity to further develop and apply advanced skills in: Plant Molecular Biology & Transformation . Tissue culture, plant regeneration, and genetic transformation systems (e.g., Agrobacterium -mediated approaches), with an emphasis on construct design and stable/transient expression. Molecular & Genetic Analysis . PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, cloning, and vector construction, as well as evaluation of genome modification and transgene expression. Host-Microbe Interaction Systems . ELISA, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry for detection and quantification of target molecules. Fluorescence microscopy and advanced imaging techniques for spatial and cellular analysis.

Transcriptomics, proteomics, and genomics approaches to characterize engineered systems and biological responses. Quantitative data analysis, statistical interpretation, and integration of multi-omics datasets.

Protein & Immune-Based Assays Microscopy & Imaging Data Analysis & Bioinformatics Benefits:

Access to state-of-the-art research facilities Opportunities for professional development and career advancement Collaborative and supportive research environment apply: https://www.zintellect.com/Opportunity/Details/USDA-ARS-HQ-2026-0032

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$72,553.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Location:

Wapato, WA 98951 (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Wapato, WA 98951 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Wapato, WA 98951: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person