Penn State University · 4 months ago
Postdoctoral Scholar - Root Crop Physiology
University Park, PA
Internship
Onsite
InternPenn State University is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position in the Root and Tuber Crop Lab, focusing on investigating root system architecture and carbon allocation in sweetpotato under stress conditions. The role involves leading integrative research, conducting experiments, and mentoring researchers while contributing to academic publications and grant proposals.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Design and conduct experiments to characterize root system architecture and anatomy under field and controlled conditions
Investigate carbon allocation, sink–source dynamics, and carbohydrate metabolism under nutrient stress and environmental constraints
Assess root hydraulic conductivity and explore links between water transport, nutrient acquisition, and plant productivity
Implement SimRoot modeling to simulate root growth dynamics and performance trade-offs under varying soil conditions
Integrate physiological, anatomical, and modeling datasets to identify key traits for improving stress tolerance
Analyze large, multidimensional datasets using advanced statistical and computational approaches
Prepare peer-reviewed manuscripts, contribute to grant proposals, and present findings at conferences
Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers and collaborate with faculty and interdisciplinary teams
Qualification
Required
Ph.D. in Plant Science, Crop Physiology, Agronomy, Plant Biology, or related discipline
Expertise in root system architecture, plant physiology, or root phenotyping
Strong background in carbon allocation, plant–soil interactions, and/or nutrient-use efficiency
Proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals and strong scientific communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team
Selected candidate must possess a U.S. driver's license and will be required to complete a motor vehicle record background check
Preferred
Experience with sweetpotato or other root/tuber crops in field and controlled environments
Familiarity with image-based phenotyping pipelines and root hydraulic measurements
Experience with SimRoot modeling or other computational frameworks
Knowledge of nutrient-use efficiency and plant responses to drought and heat stress
Interest in fostering collaborations across research groups at Penn State and beyond
Benefits
Full Penn State benefits
Competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
Company
Penn State University
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Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
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