Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Hulin lab @ MSU is excited to welcome applications for a molecular plant bacteriologist. They will work collaboratively on projects focused on plant pathogenic bacteria evolution, focused on how host range and pathogenicity of Pseudomonas syringae is genetically determined. The position will be roughly split between the laboratory (60%), computational analysis (30%) and field (10%).

Laboratory duties will include general molecular and biochemistry techniques, bacterial mutant generation, genome sequencing and conducting pathogenicity assays in growth chambers. Bioinformatics analysis of data will include use of population genomics techniques, phylogenetics and machine-learning development. The successful candidate will be expected to write up results as manuscripts for publication and present their research at conferences/professional meetings. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Biological Sciences, Plant Pathology or Microbiology

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Biological Sciences, Plant Pathology or Microbiology 
• Experience with molecular bacteriology 
• Ability to plan, organize and execute projects independently 
• Confidence with computational biology including use of programming languages such as R, python and some familiarity with high performance computing
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

Desired Qualifications

• Previous research on plant pathogenic bacterial genomics and evolution
•  Experience with and understanding of population genomics analyses
• Experience with and understanding of machine-learning development

Required Application Materials

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Name and contact information for 3 Professional References

Special Instructions

Further inquiries regarding position can be sent to Dr. Michelle Hulin (hulinmic@msu.edu)

Review of Applications Begins On

07/06/2026

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.