Fellow (Post Doc)

The Nouri Lab (Plant Virology) in the Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University is seeking a motivated and qualified postdoctoral researcher to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to an innovative project focused...

  • 520749
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Plant Pathology
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing on: Dec 15 2025
  • On-site

About This Role

The Nouri Lab (Plant Virology) in the Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University is seeking a motivated and qualified postdoctoral researcher to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to an innovative project focused on developing a novel viral vector for gene and guide RNA delivery into cereal crops, including sorghum.

Our lab recently identified a new plant RNA virus infecting cereals. This discovery provides a unique opportunity to explore the virus biology and leverage its potential as a delivery vector for virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and gene-editing applications in monocots, including major cereal species. The position offers excellent opportunities for both basic and translational research.

About Us

We study plant health to understand life. Plants, animals, and microbes share common basic features. Research on plant genomics helps define gene function in other forms of life, even humans. Plants feed, clothe, and protect us. They provide energy for a variety of uses. They enhance the quality of our lives. They are crucial to our existence.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Virology, Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, or a related field.
    The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong background in molecular biology techniques, including advanced molecular cloning.
  • Experience in engineering viral vectors.
  • Expertise in cDNA library preparation for high-throughput sequencing and data analysis.
  • Experience in protoplast isolation and transfection.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, teamwork, and organizational abilities.

Sponsorship eligibility:

This position is eligible for sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and career goals.
  • Current curriculum vitae (CV).
    Contact information for three professional references.

Application Window

Applications close on: December 15, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$50,000 - $58,000

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.