Fellow (Post Doc)

The Liu laboratory in the Plant Pathology department at Kansas State University seeks a highly motivated candidate interested in research projects related to crop genetics and genomics.

About This Role

The Liu laboratory in the Plant Pathology department at Kansas State University seeks a highly motivated candidate interested in research projects related to crop genetics and genomics. The ideal candidate is expected to have excellent technical skills in bioinformatics. Specifically, The position will lead genome assembly, comparative genomics, and population genetics analyses to uncover the genetic basis of sugar biosynthesis in sugar beet. The position will also involve developing computational tools and analytical pipelines to support genetic and genomic research. Self-guidance and resourcefulness are necessary qualities for success in the position. The Liu Lab is currently supported by both the NSF, USDA, and DOE on research projects, including plant disease resistance, plant regeneration, and genomic analysis for both plants and pathogens. More project information can be found at the lab website: https://liu3zhenlab.github.io/.

About Us

The Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University comprises a large and varying group of scientists with excellent reputations in research, teaching, and extension. Our strengths are in applied plant pathology, microbiology, biosecurity, disease diagnosis, management, host-parasite resistance genetics, pathogen and microbe genetics and genomics, genomics and biotechnology.

Kansas State University is located in Manhattan, KS, in the scenic tallgrass prairies of the Flint Hills of NE Kansas. Manhattan is 125 miles west of Kansas City and 50 miles west of Topeka. Kansas State University is the nation’s first land-grant institution and currently enrolls ~24,000 students. Check the local Convention & Visitors Bureau website (http://www.manhattancvb.org/) for more information.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, plant genetics, computational biology, or related fields.
  The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.
• Demonstrated proficiency in programming, particularly in Python.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics.

Sponsorship eligibility:

This position is eligible for sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of Interest
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Name, email and phone number for three professional references

Application Window

Applications close on: November 1, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$53,000-$60,000