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Postdoctoral Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Postdoctoral Scholar will conduct or coordinate research computational analysis and pattern ... This position requires a PhD in food science, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology ...

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Postdoctoral Food Science information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do postdoctoral food science jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral food science in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Postdoctoral Food Science job?

A Postdoctoral Food Science job is a research-focused position for individuals who have completed a Ph.D. in food science or a related field. It typically involves conducting advanced research on food safety, quality, processing, or nutrition, often within a university, government agency, or industry setting. Postdocs work under the supervision of senior researchers, contribute to publications, and may gain experience in teaching or mentoring students. The position is usually temporary, lasting one to three years, and helps researchers build expertise before pursuing faculty roles or industry positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Postdoctoral Food Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Food Science professional, you need a PhD in Food Science or a related discipline, experience in experimental design, and strong research and analytical skills. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software (such as SAS, R, or MATLAB), and scientific publishing is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management abilities set standout candidates apart. These skills enable successful project execution, clear dissemination of findings, and effective collaboration in academic or industry research settings.

What are the typical responsibilities and focus areas for a Postdoctoral Food Science position?

Postdoctoral Food Science roles primarily involve conducting original research, developing and optimizing food products or processes, and publishing related findings in peer-reviewed journals. Responsibilities may include designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, collaborating with other scientists or industry partners, and mentoring graduate or undergraduate students. The focus areas can vary based on the research group or employer, ranging from food safety and microbiology to sensory science and product development. Candidates will often work within cross-functional teams and may have opportunities to present findings at conferences, helping to build their professional network for future career growth.
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Food Science jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Food Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Food Science jobs? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Food Science jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Food Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Food Science jobs include:
Microbial Ecologist/Soil Microbiologist - Postdoctoral Scholar

Microbial Ecologist/Soil Microbiologist - Postdoctoral Scholar

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 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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