Two Postdoctoral Scholar Positions in Plant Cell Biology and Immunity
We are seeking highly motivated and creative scientists interested in addressing fundamental questions about how plants sense, communicate, and respond to microbial pathogens. These positions provide opportunities to develop independent research directions, work in a highly collaborative environment, and apply advanced molecular, biochemical, and imaging approaches to uncover new mechanisms of plant immunity.
Position 1 — Extracellular Vesicles in Plant–Microbe Interactions
The successful candidate will lead a project investigating the roles and molecular mechanisms of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in plant–microbe interactions. The project will explore how EVs mediate communication between plants and microbes and contribute to immune responses, with opportunities to uncover new mechanisms governing intercellular and interorganismal communication.
Position 2 — Sensory Organelles and Immune Signaling
The successful candidate will lead a project investigating how sensory organelles recognize pathogens and initiate and relay immune signals in plants. This project seeks to uncover fundamental mechanisms connecting cellular sensing, pathogen recognition, and downstream immune signaling using multidisciplinary cell biological, molecular, biochemical, and imaging approaches.
Qualifications
We welcome applications from candidates who have:
• A PhD in Plant Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a closely related field.
• Strong experience in microscopy and biochemical characterization.
• Experience with molecular cloning, molecular biology, protein expression, and related experimental approaches.
• A strong interest in mechanistic and interdisciplinary research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to drive research projects independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research environment.
Candidates with complementary expertise and a strong record of research productivity are particularly encouraged to apply.
Research Environment
The positions offer an opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research within the highly interactive scientific environment of the Department of Plant Biology at UC Davis. Postdoctoral scholars will have opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, develop new experimental approaches, present their work at scientific meetings, and build a strong foundation for independent scientific careers.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Research Interests describing relevant research experience, future interests, and fit with one of the projects
• Contact information for references
Please indicate in your application whether you are interested in Position 1, Position 2, or both.
Application materials should be sent to:
Professor Savithramma Dinesh-Kumar
Department of Plant Biology
University of California, Davis
[email protected]