1

Microbial Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

D. or equivalent doctorate in plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, plant sciences, or a related field, and be able to provide evidence that all requirements have been met for completion ...

Strong background in microbial ecology or related fields, with a distinct preference for expertise in microbial genomics. * Technical Tools: Significant, hands-on experience with Nextflow and Docker ...

Master's or PhD in Microbiology, Immunology, or related biological science Experience with virus production in cell monolayers, bioreactors, or fermenters Strong knowledge of microbial ecology and ...

Research Technician

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

The Kwon Laboratory (www.kwonlab.org) at the Ragon Institute has an opening for a highly motivated research technician to study microbial ecology and mucosal immune responses in the female genital ...

We utilize a combination of techniques to investigate how the microbial ecology of the gut, airway, urinary tract, and other mucosal surfaces interact with host factors to influence human health.

General microbiology, Microbial ecology and Environmental Chemistry. In your application Indicate all the courses and work experience that pertains to this position. Additional Information and/or ...

General microbiology, Microbial ecology and Environmental Chemistry. In your application Indicate all the courses and work experience that pertains to this position. Additional Information and/or ...

Candidate must have previously taken the course or have an excellent knowledge in all the following fields: general microbiology, microbial ecology and environmental chemistry. Please indicate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Microbial Ecology information

See salary details

$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do microbial ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbial ecology in the United States is $70,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common daily responsibilities for professionals working in Microbial Ecology?

Professionals in Microbial Ecology often spend their days designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing environmental samples, and managing large datasets using specialized software. They frequently collaborate with colleagues in related fields, such as environmental science, genetics, and bioinformatics, to interpret data and publish research findings. In addition to lab and fieldwork, daily tasks may include writing grant proposals, preparing reports, and presenting results at scientific meetings. This blend of hands-on research and collaborative work allows for a dynamic and engaging work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Microbial Ecology position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Microbial Ecology, a strong background in biology, environmental science, and microbiology—typically supported by a relevant advanced degree—is essential. Experience with molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics tools, and statistical software such as R or Python is highly valued in the field. Effective communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills enable professionals to work well within multidisciplinary teams and present complex findings clearly. These capabilities are crucial for advancing ecological research, publishing scientific results, and contributing to collaborative projects aimed at solving environmental challenges.

What is a Microbial Ecology job?

A Microbial Ecology job involves studying microorganisms in their natural environments, including their interactions with other organisms and ecosystems. Professionals in this field conduct research, analyze microbial communities, and explore their roles in processes like decomposition, nutrient cycling, and environmental remediation. They may work in academia, government agencies, or private industry, contributing to fields such as agriculture, healthcare, and environmental science.

More about Microbial Ecology jobs
What cities are hiring for Microbial Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Microbial Ecology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbial Ecology jobs? The most popular types of Microbial Ecology jobs are:
What states have the most Microbial Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Microbial Ecology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Microbial Ecology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.
Postdoctoral Scholar

Full-time

Re-posted 16 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 Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct research on plant viruses, mycoviruses, and virome dynamics in agricultural and forest ecosystems. The successful candidate will develop and apply molecular, genomic, and computational approaches to investigate virus epidemiology, emergence, and host-pathogen ecological interactions using high-throughput sequencing and Nanopore-based diagnostic technologies. Research activities will include virus detection, indexing, characterization, and ecological analyses across plant and fungal systems.

Applicants are required to have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, plant sciences, or a related field, and be able to provide evidence that all requirements have been met for completion of the Ph.D. prior to the effective date of hire.
Applicants should have virology and bioinformatics experience with the terminal and R; experience with other languages is a plus. Applicants should possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both oral and written) skills. A desire to participate in Penn State Virology and One Health Microbiome Center activities, as well as to provide outreach to groups underrepresented in STEM fields and other stakeholders, will be viewed positively.

The Postdoctoral Scholar will work within collaborative, transdisciplinary research teams and contribute to integrating molecular biology, bioinformatics, and ecological approaches to address emerging challenges in plant and fungal health. Additional responsibilities include mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, contributing to manuscript preparation, and supporting the development of competitive grant proposals.

This position is ideal for candidates interested in developing expertise at the intersection of viral genomics, bioinformatics, and disease ecology within a highly collaborative research environment.

Interested candidates should upload the following application materials: a cover letter describing research interests and experience, a curriculum vitae, a list of relevant publications, and three professional references with contact information. For questions regarding the position, please contact Assistant Professor Ricardo I. Alcala Briseno at ria5282@psu.edu.

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. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits 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.

Penn State 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.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines


Pennsylvania State University logo

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

Social media