Work Location: The position will be housed on the LSU AgCenter Campus in Baton Rouge, LA, at the Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter. The person hired will also travel regularly to research sites in Baton Rouge, and occasionally to the LSU AgCenter Sweet Potato Research Station in Chase, LA.

Position Description: A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available at the Sweetpotato Pathology Lab at Louisiana State University, to participate in a multi-disciplinary project, with a specific focus on developing more sensitive real-time RT-PCR methods for viruses and specific test for rapid field-based detection of sweetpotato viruses. Responsibilities and activities include assisting with field plot research and greenhouse studies, training students and visiting scientists and maintaining relationships with clientele. Prior experience with tissue culture, diagnostic testing, molecular biology tools, and working with quarantine pests is highly preferred.

Qualification Requirements: PhD. in plant pathology, or related discipline. A successful candidate will have demonstrated experience working with viral plant pathogens. Preferred qualifications include experience in molecular biology, experience in working with root and tuber crops, and experience in setting up and conducting lab, greenhouse, and field experiments. Excellent recordkeeping, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with colleagues within and among departments are required.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Workers in the two-Year Postdoctoral classification may not continue beyond two years of employment in the same classification or in any similar capacity. Two-Year Postdoctoral Researchers are not eligible to hold an additional job or receive allowance plans. However, one-time payments may be provided on a case-by-case basis and subject to HRM approval before work commences. Workers wishing to continue beyond the two-year appointment must apply, compete, and be selected for a materially different job (70% or more difference in duties per official job description).

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: February 19, 2026, or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at LSU AgCenter Careers (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching a cover letter, curriculum vitae, university transcripts, and contact information for 2-3 references. Paper, faxed, or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted.

Dr. Imana Power
Assistant Professor of Sweetpotato Pathology
Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
Email: IPower@agcenter.lsu.edu.
Website:www.lsuagcenter.com

The LSU Agricultural Center and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.