Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

We seek to recruit a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to investigate how nematodes respond to chemical and environmental cues, with the goal of advancing plant resilience through improved understanding of plant-nematode interactions and stress tolerance mechanisms.

This position supports two research initiatives. In collaboration with researchers from Center for Sustainable Plant Innovation and Resilience through International Teamwork  (C-SPIRIT), the successful candidate will investigate the effects of plant-derived compounds on nematode physiology, behavior, and survival, with the goal of discovering natural products that protect crops from parasitic nematodes such as root-knot nematodes. A second focus will be on understanding the molecular mechanisms of desiccation tolerance in the model nematode C. elegans, particularly in the dauer stage, in partnership with the Water and Life Interface Institute (WALII).

The postdoctoral researcher will be based in the Rhee Lab and will work closely with MSU nematode experts and international partners.

Detailed description of work/duties:

Responsibilities:

• Design and execute experiments to evaluate the impact of plant-derived metabolites on nematode survival, stress responses, and behavior

• Apply microscopy, genetics, and physiology techniques to investigate desiccation tolerance mechanisms in nematodes, focusing on dauer formation and recovery 
• Leading research independently, preparing publications, and presenting research in scientific 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 -Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology or related field

Minimum Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, or a related field by the time of appointment

• Proven experience working with C. elegans or other nematode models

• Strong communication, organizational, and team collaboration skills

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with high-throughput screening, microscopy, and emerging tools in live imaging such as expansion microscopy, confocal imaging, and super-resolution microscopy
• Experience with worm husbandry and molecular genetics

• Familiarity with compound screening or receptor-ligand interaction assays

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter detailing research experience and motivation for joining the C-SPIRIT and WALII initiatives, a curriculum vitae and contact information for three references. 

Special Instructions

The position is open immediately and will close upon the determination of an ideal candidate. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt of the individual’s material.

1 year and annual reappointment upon satisfactory completion

Review of Applications Begins On

09/12/2025

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.