Postgraduate Research Associate (Yale)

The Canto-Pastor Lab investigates how plants perceive and respond to microbes at the cellular level, and how these local responses are coordinated into whole-plant immune outcomes.

A central focus of our investigations is to understanding how cells in the root acquire their developmental identity and how this identity shapes the plant's capacity to detect and respond to microbial signals.

Prospective candidates will receive training across a range of experimental approaches, including microscopy, molecular biology, plant and microbial culture, and computational data analysis. This associate will work closely with Dr. Alex Canto-Pastor and other lab members to gain experience in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments. The position includes mentorship in written and oral scientific communication as well as additional opportunities for professional development.

Prospective associates will participate in lab meetings and our journal club by presenting their own results and ideas. This position is well suited to recent graduates seeking to strengthen their research experience prior to graduate study.

This position is for an initial one-year appointment, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year. Salary is $45,600. This position's start date is October 1, 2026, but is flexible, as an earlier or later start date can be accommodated.

Interested applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in a biology-related field. Prior research experience in molecular biology, microscopy, plant biology, microbiology, or biochemistry is desirable but not required. Candidates should be highly-motivated, well-organized, collaborative, and possess strong communication skills. A background or interest in plant biology and/or plant-microbe interactions is an asset.