Position Type:Other Academic
Department:LSUAG PL1 - DPPCP - Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Jonathan Richards (00057607))
Work Location:0302 Life Sciences Building
Pay Grade:Other Academic
Job Description:
This is a grant-funded, full-time (40 hrs/week) non-tenure track position through 08/31/2027. Funding is available for one year, but continuation past the first year is contingent on successful annual review and available funding.
Work Location: Department of Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Position Description: The postdoctoral research associate will be involved in several projects focusing on bioinformatics analyses of whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and metagenomic/metatranscriptomic datasets derived from fungi and plants. The postdoctoral research associate will be expected to lead all data analyses, contribute to the execution of greenhouse/growth chamber experiments, write manuscripts, present results at meetings and conferences, and mentor undergraduates. Prior experience with developing reproducible computational pipelines on a high-performance computing framework, conducting transcriptomic and comparative genomics analyses, and a background in plant and/or fungal evolutionary biology is preferred. Laboratory experience in DNA/RNA extractions and sequencing library preparation would also be beneficial.
Qualification Requirements: PhD degree in biology, biochemistry, mycology, botany, ecology, plant pathology or other related field. Demonstrated experience (publications) carrying out genomic, transcriptomic, or evolutionary biology studies, preferably in the context of plant or fungal biology, is required. Preference will be given to those with a background in the genomics of plants or fungi. Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and a willingness and ability to interact and collaborate with other scientists are essential to the success of the research. A valid Louisiana State driver’s license and ability to drive is required at the time of appointment.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: August 1, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and contact information for references. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted. Questions or requests for additional information regarding this position can be sent to:
Dr. Vinson P. Doyle
Chair and Professor of Mycology
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
302 Life Science Building
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
Dr. Jonathan K. Richards
Associate Professor
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
302 Life Science Building
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.
Additional Job Description:Competencies:NoneSpecial Instructions:
Skills Needed:
Preferred Skills:
Posting Date:July 15, 2026
Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):
Additional Position Information:
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some childcare and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Essential Position (Y/N):
The LSU AgCenter, is one of eight campuses within the broader LSU enterprise (LSU System). The LSU AgCenter includes the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, which conducts agricultural-based research, and the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, which extends the knowledge derived from research to the people of the state. The AgCenter is headquartered in Baton Rouge and has 12 “on campus” academic departments and five regions which are made up of 15 branch research stations and an extension office in each parish. For more information, visit the AgCenter’s website at www.lsuagcenter.com.
The LSU Agricultural Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.HCM Contact Information:
Questions or concerns can be directed to the LSU AgCenter Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-2258 or emailed [email protected].
Skills Required
- PhD in biology, biochemistry, mycology, botany, ecology, plant pathology, or related field
- Demonstrated experience (publications) in genomic, transcriptomic, or evolutionary biology studies
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and ability to collaborate with other scientists
- Valid Louisiana State driver's license and ability to drive at time of appointment
- Prior experience developing reproducible computational pipelines on a high-performance computing framework
- Experience conducting transcriptomic and comparative genomics analyses
- Background in plant and/or fungal evolutionary biology
- Background in the genomics of plants or fungi
- Laboratory experience in DNA/RNA extractions and sequencing library preparation
- Satisfactory pre-employment background check
What We Do
LSU is the flagship institution of Louisiana and is one of only 30 universities nationwide holding land-grant, sea-grant and space-grant status. Since 1860, LSU has served its region, the nation, and the world through extensive, multipurpose programs encompassing instruction, research, and public service. The university brings in more than $150 million annually in outside research grants and contracts, a significant factor for the Louisiana economy
