This position is funded by a USDA-NIFA-Agricultural Microbiome grant and by industry grants to characterize the functionality of the microbiome on apple flowers and the role of the microbiome in disease resistance, pollinator interactions, and fruit development. This postdoc will be hosted in the laboratory of Dr. Quan Zeng and will be co-mentored by Dr. Blaire Steven. Starting salary of this position is $51,622 annually with competitive fringe benefits.

We are seeking a recent Ph.D. with training in microbial ecology, molecular-plant microbe interactions, bacteria-plant interactions, plant pathology, or a related field. A significant record of productivity as demonstrated through refereed publications is preferred. Experience in high-throughput sequencing, metagenomics and metatranscriptomics will be given preference. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to work cooperatively, must be able to work independently as well as part of a team, have a willingness to learn, and possess strong written and verbal communication skills.

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A letter of application describing your interest in the position, research interests and career goals, and a brief overview explaining how your research experience will help you succeed with the position duties.

2) A Curriculum Vitae;

3) The names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references.

Please send the above materials to Dr. Quan Zeng at quan.zeng@ct.gov or to Dr. Blaire Steven at blaire.steven@ct.gov.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station is the nation’s first state Agricultural Experiment Station, founded in 1875. The CAES is a state-supported scientific research institution dedicated to improving the food, health, environment, and well-being of Connecticut residents. The main campus is located in New Haven, Connecticut. The CAES also encompasses a 75-acre research farm in Hamden, a satellite research facility and farm in East Windsor, and a research farm in Griswold. CAES scientists also have access to numerous state-of-art research facilities and equipment at the adjacent Yale University through an institutional agreement.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station commits to inclusive excellence by advancing equity and diversity in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.