Fellow (Post Doc)

The Ma Lab in the Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher who is well trained and passionate about science to investigate the molecular mechanisms of the plant immune system. Our lab integrates biochemistry, genetics, proteomics, and cell biology to uncover how plants defend against pathogens at the molecular level. Current projects focus on the regulation of innate immune signaling by post-translational modifications (including phosphorylation and proteolytic cleavage), lipid signaling in immunity, and programmed cell death.

The Ma Lab at K-State aims to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying plant innate immune signaling and to develop innovative strategies for engineering disease-resistant crops. Learn more about our research at https://maxiyulab.com/research/

* Design and perform experiments to dissect plant innate immune signaling pathways using biochemical, molecular, and genetic approaches.
* Use protein biochemistry, phosphorylation and protease cleavage assays, proteomics (LC-MS/MS), and imaging to characterize immune regulators.
* Conduct mutational analyses, protein interaction studies, and functional assays in plant and/or cell-based systems.
* Prepare manuscripts, contribute to grant proposals, and present findings at conferences, seminars, and departmental meetings.
* Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetic techniques.

The department of Plant Pathology studies plant health to understand life. Plants, animals, and microbes share common basic features. Research on plant genomics helps define gene function in other forms of life, even humans. Plants feed, clothe, and protect us. They provide energy for a variety of uses. They enhance the quality of our lives. They are crucial to our existence.

We foster excellence in research, teaching, extension, and service, and this has been recognized in our faculty awards and student awards.

We learn how plants and pathogens interact and how the environment affects that interaction. We modify plants so they can fight diseases and improve yield and quality. We transfer genes from wild plants to crop plants to increase genetic variety.

We study bacteria, fungi, nematodes and viruses; bioinformatics, biological control, biotechnology, disease diagnosis and management, disease physiology, ecology and epidemiology, host and microbial genetics and cytogenetics, modeling/statistics, molecular genetics, and molecular plant-microbe interactions.

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.

Minimum Qualifications:

* Ph.D. in plant biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, or a related field. 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.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Strong background in biochemical and molecular analysis.
* Experience in plant-pathogen interactions, plant immunity, or innate immune signaling.
* Experience with genetic engineering (CRISPR, RNAi, VIGS, transient assays), confocal imaging, and proteomics.
* Familiarity with Arabidopsis, Nicotiana, or other plant model systems.
* Experience with wheat, maize, or soybeans.
* Self-motivated, passionate about science, and creative.
* Evidence of independent thinking, problem-solving skills, and scientific productivity.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
* Experience mentoring students in a laboratory setting.

Additional Role Information:

• Weekend availability for time sensitive experiments.

Sponsorship eligibility:

This position is eligible for sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter describing your research experience, interests, and career goals
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Name, email and phone number for 3 professional references

Applications close on:February 15, 2026

$47,500 - $58,000