Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Vector‑Borne Plant Pathology

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Olmedo‑Velarde Lab at Iowa State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on integrated research projects focused on vector‑borne plant pathogens in corn and soybean systems, with an emphasis on corn stunt–associated pathosystems.

The Olmedo‑Velarde Lab studies vector‑borne plant pathosystems by integrating plant pathology, entomology, virology, vector biology, and molecular biology to develop innovative and sustainable management strategies for major field crops. The successful candidate will contribute to fundamental, applied, and translational research examining plant–vector–pathogen interactions, molecular diagnostics, and novel control strategies in agroecosystems.

A major component of this position will involve developing field‑deployable molecular diagnostics (e.g., recombinase polymerase amplification [RPA]) for corn stunt–associated pathogens. The role will also include mechanistic studies of pathogen effectors and host interactions.

Required Minimum Qualifications (for temps/postdocs only, delete for all other positions):
Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Microbiology, Virology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong background in molecular biology and molecular diagnostics, including experience with low‑titer or phloem‑limited pathogens
Experience working with plant‑associated and/or vector‑borne pathogens, including insect vector systems (e.g., aphids, leafhoppers, psyllids)
Background in effector biology, host–pathogen interactions, and/or plant immunity
Experience developing field‑deployable or high‑throughput diagnostic tools and conducting greenhouse and/or field‑based plant pathology experiments
Demonstrated publication record in peer‑reviewed journals, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively (mentoring or grant experience a plus)

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Microbiology (PPEM) at Iowa State University advances research, teaching, and extension focused on improving pest management and preventing disease. The Department houses interdisciplinary expertise across plant pathology, entomology, and microbiology, supported by state‑of‑the‑art facilities and strong collaborations that address current and emerging challenges in agriculture and plant health.

Department Unit/Website:
Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:

August 3, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs

Original Posting Date:

May 7, 2026

Posting Close Date:

May 14, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19152

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.