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Plant Genetics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

... Postdoctoral Research Scientists - Plant Genetic Improvement to conduct research on genetic ... D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field (plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding or ...

Maine's Public Universities

Research Assistant

Orono, ME · On-site

$37K/yr

Responsibilities focus primarily on activities of plant genetics laboratory at the University of ... Postdoctoral Fellow, Research Associate and faculty supervisors. Typical hiring salary for this ...

Maine's Public Universities

Research Assistant

Orono, ME · On-site

$37K/yr

Responsibilities focus primarily on activities of plant genetics laboratory at the University of ... Postdoctoral Fellow, Research Associate and faculty supervisors. Typical hiring salary for this ...

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc

NY · On-site

$62K - $88K/yr

... genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Cornell University embraces ...

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How much do plant genetics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant genetics postdoc in the United States is $38.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $50.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant genetics postdoc?

Plant Genetics Postdocs are early-career scientists who have completed their PhD and are engaged in advanced research focused on the genetic makeup and improvement of plants. They typically work in academic, government, or industry labs, conducting experiments to understand plant genes, traits, and how these can be manipulated for better yield, disease resistance, or environmental adaptation. Their responsibilities include designing studies, analyzing genetic data, publishing research findings, and sometimes mentoring students. These positions are usually temporary, lasting 2-4 years, and are intended to prepare researchers for independent academic or industry roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant genetics postdoc, and why are they important?

To excel as a Plant Genetics Postdoc, you need a PhD in plant genetics or a related field, with expertise in experimental design, molecular biology techniques, and data analysis. Familiarity with bioinformatics tools, next-generation sequencing platforms, and statistical software such as R or Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively are highly valued. These skills are crucial for conducting rigorous research, interpreting complex genetic data, and effectively sharing findings with the scientific community.

What are some common challenges faced by plant genetics postdocs, and how can they be addressed?

Plant Genetics Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, adapting to rapidly advancing technologies, and managing large datasets. To address these, it's helpful to develop strong project management skills, stay current with emerging genetic analysis tools, and actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues. Engaging in regular lab meetings and interdisciplinary collaborations can also foster problem-solving and professional growth.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Genetics Postdoc jobs?

For Plant Genetics Postdoc jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plant Genetics Postdoc 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 $79,605 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar -- Plant Genetic Improvement

University Park, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Penn State Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The laboratory of Mark Guiltinan and Siela Maximova in the Department of Plant Science at The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA seeks to employ a highly motivated scientist for the position of Postdoctoral Research Scientists - Plant Genetic Improvement to conduct research on genetic improvement of Theobroma cacao, the chocolate tree as part of an interdisciplinary team. We seek applicants who have experience in conducting highly controlled laboratory and greenhouse plant experiments, collection of various forms of phenotypic and molecular data, statistical analysis of complex datasets. Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to work well in a collaborative research environment are essential.
Applications must be submitted electronically at https://hr.psu.edu/careers and include a resume that includes educational background, publications, and work experience (Ph.D. thesis and beyond), as well as a brief statement of research interests and goals. Please also provide contact information for at least three references.
Applicants are required to have or near to having, a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field (plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding or related disciplines) and provide evidence all requirements have been meet for the completion of the Ph.D. prior to the effective date of hire. More information about Penn State and resources for Postdoctoral scholars can be found in the following website: https://www.research.psu.edu/opa.
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 our Benefits 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.
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