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Phd Plant Genetics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New Mexico State University

Post Doctoral

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

... Cramer, PhD, Professor of Horticulture in the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences ... Ph.D. in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Genetics, Crop Production, Plant Physiology ...

New Mexico state Universoty

Post Doctoral

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

... Cramer, PhD, Professor of Horticulture in the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences ... Ph.D. in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Genetics, Crop Production, Plant Physiology ...

Syngenta

Product Placement Scientist

Aliquippa, PA

Advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Plant Genetics, or related field, with 3+ years of relevant experience. * Proven expertise in plant variety ...

Oxman

Plant Synthetic Biologist

New York, NY · On-site

$116K - $145K/yr

PhD or equivalent, with a focus on bioengineering/synthetic biology and its applications in the plant kingdom. * Minimum 3 years of industry or academic experience in plant biology research, genetic ...

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How much do phd plant genetics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd plant genetics in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a PhD in plant genetics?

A PhD in plant genetics prepares individuals for research and development roles in academia, government agencies, and the agricultural industry. Graduates often work as plant geneticists, crop scientists, or biotech researchers, utilizing skills in molecular biology, genomics, and laboratory techniques to improve crop traits and develop new plant varieties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD plant geneticist?

To thrive as a PhD Plant Geneticist, you need advanced knowledge in genetics, molecular biology, and plant sciences, typically supported by a doctoral degree in a related field. Expertise with laboratory techniques (such as PCR, CRISPR, and sequencing), bioinformatics tools, and data analysis software is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong collaboration skills help you design experiments and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, producing reliable research, and advancing solutions in agriculture and plant science.

How much does a Phd plant genetics make?

A PhD in plant genetics typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and sector such as academia, government, or industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in molecular techniques or bioinformatics can earn higher salaries.

What are some common career advancement opportunities for professionals with a PhD in plant genetics?

Professionals with a PhD in Plant Genetics can advance their careers in several directions, including academic research and teaching, leading research teams in government or private sector labs, or moving into roles such as project manager or principal investigator. Many also transition into biotechnology or agricultural companies, where they contribute to product development or regulatory affairs. Networking within professional organizations and publishing research can further enhance growth prospects. Additionally, some PhD holders choose to specialize in areas like genomics, bioinformatics, or intellectual property, opening doors to interdisciplinary leadership roles.

What is a PhD in plant genetics?

A PhD in Plant Genetics is an advanced research degree focused on understanding the genetic makeup of plants and how genes influence traits such as growth, disease resistance, and adaptation. Students in this program conduct original research, often in laboratory and field settings, to discover new insights into plant biology and genetics. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, biotechnology, agriculture, or conservation, working to solve challenges related to food security, crop improvement, and environmental sustainability.

What is the difference between Phd Plant Genetics vs Plant Breeder?

AspectPhd Plant GeneticsPlant Breeder
Required CredentialsPhD in Plant Genetics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science or related field, often with experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companiesField sites, greenhouses, research facilities
Industry UsageAcademic research, biotech, crop improvement researchCrop development, commercial seed production

Phd Plant Genetics focuses on advanced research in plant DNA, gene functions, and genetic modification, often within academic or biotech settings. Plant Breeders apply genetic principles to develop new plant varieties, primarily in agricultural settings. While both roles require knowledge of plant genetics, Phd Plant Genetics emphasizes research and discovery, whereas Plant Breeding centers on practical application and crop improvement.

What can I do with a PhD in plant genetics?

A PhD in plant genetics prepares individuals for research and development roles in academia, government agencies, and the agricultural industry. Graduates often work as plant geneticists, crop scientists, or biotech researchers, utilizing skills in molecular biology, genomics, and laboratory techniques to improve crop traits and develop new plant varieties.

How much does a PhD in plant genetics make?

A PhD in plant genetics typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and sector such as academia, government, or industry. Salaries tend to be higher in private industry and research institutions that require advanced expertise in genetics and biotechnology tools.
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What job categories do people searching Phd Plant Genetics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Plant Genetics jobs are:
Phd Plant Genetics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Plant Genetics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Post Doctoral

New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

New Mexico State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

334th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Contact: Christopher Cramer, 575-646-2657, cscramer@nmsu.edu
Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants
Advertising Summary: The Onion Breeding and Genetics Research Program at NMSU seeks a postdoctoral researcher to work on several research projects and manage the day-to-day operations of the program. Apply today and join our college!
Position Details
Position Title: Post Doctoral
College/Division: Agricultural,Consumer & Env Sci Col
Department: 301400-PLANT AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
Location: Las Cruces
Offsite Location (if applicable):
Target Hourly/Salary Rate: 55,000
Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0
FLSA Status: Exempt
Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding
Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)
If Not a Standard Work Schedule:
Job Duties and Responsibilities: ** This is a 2 year appointment**
Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate the work of assigned staff. Oversee and/or conduct research. Assist in technical support for delegated projects. Create new opportunities by preparing and submitting new project proposals to national funding agencies. Perform related duties as required.
The Onion Breeding and Genetics Research Program seeks a postdoctoral researcher to work on several research projects and manage the day-to-day operations of the program. The research projects include evaluating onion cultivars for mechanical harvesting suitability; screening onion germplasm for resistance to Fusarium basal rot (FBR); understanding the genetic mechanisms of onion host plant resistance to FBR; high-throughput phenotyping of onion plant traits; and seed regeneration of short-day onion plant introduction accessions. In addition to these research projects, the researcher will manage the day-to-day operations of the research program, including growing onions for both bulb and seed production, managing physical and financial resources, and supervising student employees. The researcher will be involved in data collection, statistical analysis, manuscript generation, project reporting, and grant proposal submission. The researcher will work in both field and laboratory settings. The researcher will work under the collaborative leadership and direction of Christopher Cramer, PhD, Professor of Horticulture in the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences.
Environment: Includes both field and laboratory settings. Field conditions can be hot, cold, dry, wet, and/or dirty depending upon the time of year and location. Working remotely is not available for the position.
Physical Effort: Position can require substantial physical effort. The position may require lifting heavy objects, standing or walking for long periods, and manual labor under hot, cold, rainy, dry, or dirty conditions.
Lifting requirements: Position requires the ability to lift 50 lbs or more.
Risk: Position will have some exposure to physical risk associated with sun exposure.
Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:Required Education:Doctorate degree in related field.; Required Experience:No previous work experience required.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:
Equivalent Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:Ph.D. in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Genetics, Crop Production, Plant Physiology, or Plant Pathology.
Experience with plant pathology, plant breeding, plant genetics, crop production, and statistical analysis.
Experience working in field and laboratory settings.
Experience with student supervision and management.
Computer knowledge and SAS programming skills.
Excellent writing and data presentation skills.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to speak Spanish (moderate to fluent).
Ability to drive a motor vehicle and possess a valid US driver's license.
Special Certification/Licensure:
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.
Lifting Requirements: Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds.
Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

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