Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available to conduct research at Michigan State University in the Blackwood lab in the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences. We are seeking an individual interested in examining the role of plant and fungal diversity in contributions to soil carbon and species coexistence.

The research associate will work collaboratively on a USDA-funded project investigating switchgrass bioenergy systems, taking advantage of collaborations at the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center and Kellogg Biological Station Long Term Ecological Research sites, as well as other locations. There is also opportunity for involvement with other projects related to our broad interests, including plant-fungal and plant-plant interactions belowground, soil carbon sequestration, and mechanisms of community assembly. 

This position presents a great opportunity to establish new experiments and leverage existing projects, field sites, and datasets. The position will require fieldwork at sites that may involve overnight stays and/or working in adverse conditions, as well as laboratory analyses in molecular barcoding and soil biogeochemistry. The postdoctoral associate will also be responsible for writing publications and communicating effectively with other scientists, students, and the public. 

MSU has a vibrant research community for postdocs, including many programs for professional development. Additional opportunities include writing grant proposals, outreach activities, and networking with MSU's large community of plant scientists, ecologists, and evolutionary biologists. MSU is located in East Lansing, MI, which has a very favorable cost-of-living . Salary is commensurate with experience 

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 -Ecology, soil biology, plant biology, microbiology or related

Minimum Requirements

(1) Ph.D. (Ecology, soil biology, plant biology, microbiology, or a related field);

 (2) Record of publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals;

(3) Evidence of working independently as well as in a collaborative team environment;

(4) Evidence of skills in experimental design, statistical analysis;

(5) Excellent communication skills;

(6) Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment 

Desired Qualifications

 (1) Expertise in molecular analysis and bioinformatics related to barcoding of plant or fungal communities;

(2) Expertise in plant root ecology, mycorrhizae, and soil carbon dynamics;

(3) Evidence of success in project management, research mentoring, and team leadership 

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter

Resume/CV

Name and Contact Information for Three (3) Professional References 

Special Instructions

Please feel free to email inquiries to Chris Blackwood (blackw79@msu.edu)

Review of Applications Begins On

07/02/2025

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.