Research Associate-Fixed Term

Working/Functional Title

Research Associate: Dry Bean Breeding & Pathology

Position Summary

Join Our Team: Research Associate Position Available! The Dry Bean Breeding Program in the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences is seeking exceptional candidates for an exciting opportunity as a Research Associate. This fixed-term position is dedicated to exploring the fascinating realm of breeding dry beans for quantitative disease resistance, with population development and genomics as primary areas. 

As a Research Associate, you will play a pivotal role in our dynamic team, contributing to groundbreaking research on understanding how comprehensive datasets on disease resistance and target resistance and pathogenesis gene information can be leveraged to develop systems for the evaluation of germplasm and improvement of quantitatively-inherited disease resistance (QDR). In particular, QDR diseases of interest are white mold (S. sclerotiorum) and root rot complexes. However, other QDR diseases could be incorporated into research projects. Your efforts will be instrumental in designing innovative strategies aimed at developing new crop varieties with enhanced QDR. 

Key Responsibilities:

• In addition to the primary research responsibilities outlined, the incumber will participate in a collaborative environment with team of MSU experts to contribute valuable insights and findings.
• Design and implement experiments to advance our understanding of QDR, pathogenesis and pathogen-host genomics in common bean.

 Why Join Us: Be part of a vibrant and collaborative research community. Contribute to cutting-edge research with real-world implications. Shape the future of agriculture through innovative solutions. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the field of plant breeding and possess the required qualifications, we invite you to apply for this exciting Research Associate position. To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and relevant credentials.

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 -Plant Breeding, Genetics, Plant Pathology or related fields

Minimum Requirements

A Ph.D.  in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Plant Pathology or related fields. 

Desired Qualifications

• Proven expertise in researching disease resistance, particularly in the context of pathogenesis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Strong bioinformatics skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter

Resume/CV

Name and Contact Information for Three (3) Professional References 

Special Instructions

For inquires about the position please contact Dr. Valerio Hoyos-Villegas (hoyosval@msu.edu)

Review of Applications Begins On

03/19/2025

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.