Postdoctoral Research Associate – Plant Immunity and Extracellular Immune Signaling | University of Florida Microbiology and Cell Science

Gainesville, Florida, A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Zhonglin Mou in the Department of Microbiology and Cell Science at the University of Florida.
The position is supported by a newly funded three-year USDA/NIFA grant focused on understanding extracellular immune signaling in plants. The successful candidate will investigate how extracellular signaling molecules, including extracellular NAD(P) and salicylic acid (SA), are sensed at the plant cell surface and how these signals activate local and systemic immune responses.
Our research has identified lectin receptor kinases as key components of extracellular NAD(P) and SA signaling pathways that contribute to systemic acquired resistance (Li et al., Extracellular salicylic acid activates immune signaling through cell-surface receptors. bioRxiv 2026). The postdoctoral researcher will use molecular, genetic, biochemical, and cell biological approaches to define receptor activation mechanisms and determine how extracellular immune signaling interfaces with intracellular SA signaling and systemic immunity.
Potential research areas include receptor-ligand interactions, receptor kinase activation and phosphorylation, protein-protein interactions, calcium and other early immune signaling events, genetic analysis of immune signaling pathways, and characterization of local and systemic disease resistance. The project provides opportunities to develop new mechanistic insights into plant immune signaling and to contribute to high-impact publications. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in plant biology, plant pathology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field. Experience in the following areas is desirable: plant molecular genetics, plant-microbe interactions, protein biochemistry, receptor kinase signaling, protein-protein interaction assays, phosphorylation analysis, and Arabidopsis research. Candidates should have strong experimental skills, a solid publication record, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. Salary and benefits will follow University of Florida guidelines and will be commensurate with experience.
Interested applicants should send a single PDF containing a cover letter describing research experience and interests, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references to Dr. Zhonglin Mou (email: [email protected] ) . Please enter POSTDOC POSITION in the subject line.
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer.