Postdoctoral Associate

About this position

A full-time Postdoctoral Associate position is available in the Dong laboratory at Duke University. The candidate will investigate the molecular mechanisms regulating NPR1 phosphorylation and the connection between light signaling and salicylic acid (SA)-mediated plant immunity. The project will evaluate candidate kinases responsible for NPR1 phosphorylation at Ser-11/15 and determine how this regulation affects NPR1 ubiquitination, protein stability, and immune function.

It will also examine how light-signaling components, including PIFs, HY5, and COP1, contribute to NPR1-mediated defense and systemic acquired resistance (SAR).

The project will combine biochemical, molecular, and genetic approaches, including protein purification, in vitro kinase and protein interaction assays, transient expression in tobacco and Arabidopsis protoplasts, and analyses of NPR1 phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and degradation. The candidate will also perform disease resistance assays, generate genetic materials using CRISPR-mediated gene editing, and investigate NPR1 subcellular localization in relation to photobody components.

The candidate will be expected to participate in the training and supervision of students and visiting researchers involved in the project. The position will also provide opportunities to develop skills in grant writing, peer review, and mentoring. A Ph.D., full-time research experience, and molecular biology skills are required, and computational skills are highly desirable.

Applications should include a cover letter and CV, with the applicant’s last name included in the file names.