Visiting Fellow

Job Title: Visiting Fellow

Department: FAES | Plant Pathology-JM

The Visiting Scholar will participate in a 12-month research program in the Fang Laboratory at The Ohio State University focused on molecular genetics and functional genomics of oomycete plant pathogens, particularly Phytophthora species. The scholar will work under the supervision of Dr. Francis Fang to investigate genes involved in plant–pathogen interactions and pathogen virulence using molecular biology and genome editing approaches. Primary responsibilities include conducting laboratory experiments such as genetic transformation, CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing, plasmid construction, DNA extraction, molecular genotyping, and phenotypic characterization of mutant strains. The Visiting Scholar will maintain accurate research records, participate in laboratory meetings and collaborative research activities, and comply with all OSU laboratory safety policies and research compliance requirements.

Areas of Responsibility (% Breakdown)

Research Activities (90%): Conduct molecular genetics and functional genomics experiments related to oomycete plant pathogens; perform genetic transformation and CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing in Phytophthora; construct and validate plasmids for genome editing; perform DNA extraction and molecular genotyping of transformants; carry out phenotypic characterization and functional analysis of mutant strains; and maintain accurate laboratory records while following laboratory safety and compliance procedures.

Scholarly Communication (5%): Prepare research summaries, figures, and draft manuscripts, and present research progress at laboratory meetings and research seminars.

Collaboration and Professional Development (5%): Collaborate with laboratory members and research partners and participate in research discussions, training activities, and academic exchange.

Required Qualifications / Years of Experience

M.S. degree in Plant Pathology, or a closely related field by the start date, or a B.S. degree in Biology, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, or a related field with at least three years of relevant research experience. The candidate should have experience working with fungi and/or oomycetes and demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, nucleic acid extraction, and sequencing-based assays, as well as plant pathology methods including fungal or oomycete bioassays. Familiarity with genomics, transcriptomics, or bioinformatics analysis is preferred. Prior experience working in an academic research laboratory is required, along with the ability to work independently in a research environment and communicate effectively with team members.