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Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position requires a PhD in food science, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology ... BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to ...

Scientist

Kerman, CA · On-site

$69K - $100K/yr

Associate Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services, and our ... Propose and modify existing soil science SOPs for use in our lab * Drive innovative solutions and ...

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Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral information

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$35.5K

$54.2K

$61K

How much do full time soil science postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time soil science postdoctoral in the United States is $54,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral, you need a Ph.D. in soil science or a related field, with expertise in soil analysis, experimental design, and data interpretation. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, statistical software such as R or SAS, and GIS tools is typically required. Strong written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help you excel in research environments and interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential to conduct high-quality research, publish findings, and contribute to advancements in soil science.

What is the difference between Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral vs Full Time Soil Scientist?

AspectFull Time Soil Science PostdoctoralFull Time Soil Scientist
CredentialsPh.D. in Soil Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Soil Science or related field, often with professional certification
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, labsGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, agricultural companies
Job FocusResearch, data analysis, publishingPractical application, fieldwork, project management
DurationTypically 1-3 years, postdoctoral positionFull-time, ongoing employment

In summary, a Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral is primarily focused on research and academic development, often as a temporary position for recent Ph.D. graduates. In contrast, a Full Time Soil Scientist is a permanent role centered on applying soil science principles in practical settings, such as environmental management or agriculture.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers in soil science, and how can they be navigated successfully?

Postdoctoral researchers in soil science often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing time effectively between laboratory and fieldwork, and securing funding for ongoing studies. Navigating these challenges involves proactive communication with mentors and team members, staying organized with project timelines, and seeking professional development opportunities, such as grant writing workshops. Building a strong network within the academic and industry communities can also provide valuable support and open doors for future career advancement.

What is a Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral position?

A Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral position is a temporary research role for individuals who have recently earned a Ph.D. in soil science or a related field. Postdocs work on advanced research projects, often collaborating with faculty, industry, or government agencies to further scientific understanding of soil properties, functions, and management. These positions are designed to help researchers gain additional expertise and experience before moving on to permanent academic, industry, or government roles. Responsibilities typically include conducting experiments, publishing research findings, mentoring students, and contributing to grant writing.
More about Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs? The most popular types of Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral jobs include:
Infographic showing various Full Time Soil Science Postdoctoral job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,223 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Microbial Ecologist/Soil Microbiologist - Postdoctoral Scholar

Microbial Ecologist/Soil Microbiologist - Postdoctoral Scholar

The Pennsylvania State University

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Microbial Ecologist/Soil Microbiologist as Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct and manage research investigating the ecology of predation of human and plant pathogens in organic production systems through a multi-institutional USDA/OREI funded project. The Postdoctoral Scholar will conduct or coordinate research computational analysis and pattern discovery from large scale amplicon sequencing data, development of qPCR primers for specific predator, pathogen, or other organismal groups, and large-scale microcosm experiments for predation of pathogens and beneficial microorganisms. The scholar will plan, conduct and analyze research, synthesize data, prepare and scientific manuscripts, and present research results at stakeholder and national scientific conferences. The incumbent will gain experience in grant project management through the coordination of PSU's grant related goals in project management meetings.

This position requires a PhD in food science, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, soil microbiology, or related field. Competitive candidates must have sequence analysis and microbiology experience and possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both oral and written) skills. A desire to participate in Penn State One Health Microbiome Center activities, as well as provide outreach to groups underrepresented in STEM fields and other stakeholders will be viewed positively.

Candidates should apply online at https://hr.psu.edu/careers. Candidates should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for three references.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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