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Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

The project integrates microbial ecology, soil science, microbial physiology, microfluidics ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME ...

Penn State University

$55 - $75/hr

Opportunities may include microbial ecology, bioinformatics, microbial physiology, microscopy and ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is ...

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The Pennsylvania State University

$48K - $65K/yr

... postdoctoral scholar.The position start dates are flexible, with an ideal start date in Fall 2024. Research in the Bletz Lab liesat the intersection of disease ecology, microbial ecology, and ...

Zymtronix Catalytic Systems Inc

NY · On-site

$62.23 - $88.75/hr

Postdoctoral Research Associate The Johnson lab is seeking to welcome a postdoctoral research ... The ideal candidate will bring expertise in microbial ecology and microbiome sequencing and/or ...

New

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

$62 - $83/hr

... microbial ecology, drawing from modern computational methods and evolutionary theory. St. Jude ... St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic ...

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The Pennsylvania State University

... Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct research on plant viruses, mycoviruses, and virome dynamics in ... D. or equivalent doctorate in plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, plant sciences, or ...

Thecentermemphis

$73 - $98/hr

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Salvador Almagro ... microbial ecology, drawing from modern computational methods and evolutionary theory. St. Jude ...

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How much do postdoctoral microbial ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral microbial ecology 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 microbial ecologist?

A Postdoctoral Researcher in Microbial Ecology is a scientist who has completed their PhD and is conducting advanced research on the interactions, roles, and functions of microorganisms in various environments. This position typically involves designing and performing experiments, analyzing microbial communities using molecular and computational techniques, and publishing research findings. Postdocs often work in academic, government, or industry labs and may mentor students while building their own research portfolio.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral microbial ecologist?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Microbial Ecologist, you need a Ph.D. in microbiology, ecology, or a related field and expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and microbial community profiling. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (such as DNA sequencing), bioinformatics software (like QIIME or R), and statistical analysis tools are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills will help you excel in collaborative research and publication. These competencies are vital for producing high-quality research that advances understanding in microbial ecology and meets academic and funding expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral microbial ecologists, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers in microbial ecology often encounter challenges such as securing funding for independent research, managing large and complex datasets, and balancing collaborative work with developing their own research niche. Navigating interdisciplinary teams can also require strong communication skills to bridge gaps between microbiology, ecology, and bioinformatics. To address these challenges, postdocs can actively seek out mentorship, participate in grant writing workshops, and foster collaborations that provide opportunities for skill development and networking within the scientific community.
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What states have the most Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology jobs are:

Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Microbial Ecology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Soil Microbial Ecology

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 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

236th of 629 rated colleges and universities

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 Soil Microbiomes Laboratory of Dr. Estelle Couradeau is seeking a highly motivated scientist for a Postdoctoral Scholar position. The successful candidate will join the NSF CAREER-funded project:
CAREER: Breaking Ground: Uncovering the Fate of Biocrust Microbiome in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands.
This interdisciplinary project investigates how biological soil crust (biocrust) microbial communities respond to environmental change and the consequences for soil ecosystem functioning. The project integrates microbial ecology, soil science, microbial physiology, microfluidics, microscopy, omics approaches, and education and outreach activities. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and supportive research environment and contribute to advancing our understanding of microbial resilience in dryland ecosystems.
Key Responsibilities
  • Contribute to research investigating the response of biocrust microbial communities to environmental change in arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
  • Design and conduct laboratory, field, and/or mesocosm experiments.
  • Apply molecular, microbiological, imaging, physiological, computational, and omics approaches as appropriate to the candidate's interests and expertise.
  • Analyze and interpret complex datasets and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
  • Collaborate with students, staff, and national and international project partners.
  • Participate in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Contribute to educational and outreach activities.

Because this is a broad and interdisciplinary project, specific responsibilities will be tailored to the interests, expertise, and career goals of the successful candidate. Opportunities may include microbial ecology, bioinformatics, microbial physiology, microscopy and image analysis, microfluidics and SoilChip development, field ecology, carbon cycle research, mentoring, and science outreach.
The successful candidate will work closely with the PI to develop a research program that both advances project goals and supports their long-term professional development.
Qualifications
  • Experience in environmental microbiology, microbial ecology, soil science, or related disciplines.
  • Strong quantitative, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment

Desired Attributes
  • A generous team member dedicated to fostering collaboration and building communities.
  • A curious mind with a strong drive for advancing research in the field.

If you are passionate about advancing our understanding of soil microbiomes and their resilience, we encourage you to apply.
The successful candidate must have completed all degree requirements by the appointment date.
Application
Candidates should apply online at https://hr.psu.edu/careers and should provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for two references.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
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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