A Soil or Plant Scientist studies soil composition and nutrition, the impact of soil treatment practices on plant or crop growth, and soil conservation and management methods relevant to farming and forestry.
Business Unit North Dakota State University Location Fargo Posted 09/01/2026 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 & Biotechnology at North Dakota State University invites applications for a Post doctoral Research Fellow to join a collaborative research program (between NDSU and
USDA-ARS
Cereal Disease Laboratory at St. Paul, MN) focused on Fusarium Head Blight and other cereal diseases. The successful candidate will focus on use of doubled haploid (DH) production combined with genome editing technology (Hi-Edit) for improving resistance to FHB, rusts and other diseases in common wheat and durum wheat. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to design and conduct independent experiments, analyze and interpret experimental data, prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, present research findings at scientific meetings, and contribute to collaborative grant proposals. The initial appointment is for one year and is renewable annually thereafter based on funding availability and satisfactory performance.
Key responsibilities include:
Designing and executing experiments on vector constructions Maize transformation using established protocols; Generate and genotype haploid plants through the wheat and maize wide hybridization method; Disease screening in greenhouse and field; Managing greenhouse and field experiments and plant materials; Collaborating with breeders and interdisciplinary research teams; Presenting research findings at scientific conferences; Preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Plant Science, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Genomics, or a closely related field; Experience in modern molecular and genetic approaches in crop or model plants, including PCR and Real-time
PCR, DNA
sequencing, molecular cloning, plant transformation, and gene functional analysis; Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment; Strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals; Ability to communicate effectively in English.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with FHB and other diseases of cereal crops; Experience in gene transformation and tissue culture; Experience working on the interaction between host and pathogen; Experience with CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing; Excellent written and oral communication skills.
TO APPLY
For full consideration, applicants should submit: 1. A cover letter describing research interests and how their qualifications match the position. 2. A curriculum vitae, including a complete publication list. 3. Contact information for at least three professional references. Questions regarding the position may be directed to: Dr. Yueqiang Leng Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology & Biotechnology 306 Walster Hall North Dakota State University Fargo, ND 58105-5012
Email:
yueqiang.leng@ndsu.edu
Phone:
+1-701-231-7153
SALARY :
$50,000-$60,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience Screening of applications will begin on Sep. 29th, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.
Note:
Incomplete applications and applications submitted solely by email will not be considered. 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, Long-Term Care Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
Supplemental Retirement Plans Explore Full Benefit Details:
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, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable.
Direct inquiries to:
Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 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 .
