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Phd Plant Genetics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

PhD in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Plant-Microbe Interactions, or a closely related discipline with ... Ability to connect fungal biology, host resistance, genetics, and phenotyping data to support ...

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 ...

Plant Synthetic Biologist

New York, NY ยท 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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Phd Plant Genetics information

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How much do phd plant genetics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 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 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.

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 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.

More about Phd Plant Genetics jobs

What cities are hiring for Phd Plant Genetics jobs?

Cities with the most Phd Plant Genetics job openings:

What states have the most Phd Plant Genetics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Phd Plant Genetics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Phd Plant Genetics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Plant Geneticist Advisor (Onsite)

National Experienced Workforce Solutions

Poplarville, MS โ€ข On-site

$75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Plant Geneticist Advisor (Onsite)ID:ARS-SEA-061Location:PoplarvilleProgram:ARS
Wage/Hr:$75.00Hours/Week:15Minimum Age:55

For over 25 years, National Experienced Workforce Solutions (NEW Solutions) has specialized in connecting experienced workers (ages 55+) with full-time and part-time job opportunities that support the critical missions of Federal Agencies across the United States.

NEW Solutions connects experienced workers (ages 55+) with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS). These experienced professionals provide administrative, scientific, and technical support to the Agricultural Research Service through the Experienced Worker Program (EWP).

Positions listed here do not guarantee employment for any definite period. Enrollment in the Experienced Worker Programs administered by NEW Solutions is temporary. The enrollment relationship between NEW Solutions and the Enrollee is an ?at-will? relationship. This means that an Enrollee is free to terminate enrollment at any time during the enrollment period, and NEW Solutions and the Agency have the right to terminate the relationship with the Enrollee.

PLEASE NOTE: An ?Enrollee? is not a federal employee, nor an employee of NEW Solutions. An ?Enrollee? is a participant in a grant program established through a Cooperative Agreement funded by the agency and administered by NEW Solutions. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

This opportunity applies to applicants legally eligible to work in the United States.

*This position will be open until filled.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 20 year(s) of experience in Plant Genetics and Breeding OR PhD Degree in Genetics, Plant Breeding or related field.

  • N/A
  • Experience required with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel
Duties:

Analyze data on blueberry and muscadine germplasms and cultivars and identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline working with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars. The enrollee shall not sign federal documents, authorize the use of federal funds, nor initiate or conduct federally funded research projects. The enrollee shall not author articles for publication as a federal employee, nor coordinate scientific research between the Government and private industry. The enrollee shall not present themselves as a Government employee or Government representative at meetings both foreign and domestic or when coordinating federal agencies? areas of research. The enrollee shall not make decisions on federally based research on behalf of Government policy makers, and the enrollee shall not supervise any Government employees.

  • Analyze data on blueberry germplasm and cultivars, identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline, and work with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars.   40%
  • Analyze data on muscadine germplasm and cultivars, identify cultivars for advancement in the breeding pipeline, and work with scientists and technicians in the development and release of promising germplasm and cultivars. Contribute to activities associated with the release of two muscadine cultivars.   30%
  • Provide training to scientists and technicians on the maintenance and breeding of blueberry and muscadine crops.   20%
  • Provide guidance to the researchers in the development of a streamlined blueberry and muscadine inventory.   5%
  • Review the progress and questions related to ongoing internal and collaborative programs in blueberry and muscadine crops and advise scientists on the path forward.   5%

Other:
  • Physical requirements: N/A Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

NEW Solutions is committed to promoting equal opportunity and to an environment free from discrimination and harassment in any form administering Experienced Worker Programs under cooperative agreements with federal agencies. It is NEW Solutions' policy to comply with all applicable laws that provide equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in enrolling participants in the federal programs.