The Department of Biology at Georgia Southern University invites qualified candidates to apply for an MS position with a research focus on fungal genomics and host-pathogen interaction. The position, supervised by Dr. Yong Zhang, will commence in the Fall 2026 semester. Competitive candidates will be offered a teaching and research assistantship, engaging in areas such as the genomic evolutionary mechanisms underlying fungal adaptation to changing environments and the functional diversity of host immune receptors conferring disease resistance.
Benefits
Teaching and research assistantship funding for competitive candidates
Salary starting at 14,000 USD per year
Hands-on research experience in high-throughput OMICS data technology and fungal genomics
Eligibility
Must hold a B.S. or M.S. degree in Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Mycology, Plant Science, Molecular Biology, or related disciplines
Must possess knowledge in bioinformatics and computational biology
Must be familiar with programming languages such as Python, R, or Perl
Must demonstrate strong communication skills, self-motivation, and a passion for research
Preference is given to candidates with hands-on experience in OMICS data analysis and proficiency in computer programming and big data management
Requirements
Submission of a comprehensive resume or CV detailing education and relevant experience
Submission of official academic transcripts
Submission of a short paragraph acting as a personal statement outlining your research interests and qualifications
Commitment to work at least 20 hours per week as part of the assistantship duties
Required Documents
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Academic Transcripts
Short Personal Statement
Programs of Study
Master of Science in Biology (Environmental Microbiology)
Application Process
Prepare your resume/CV, academic transcripts, and a short paragraph for your personal statement
Ensure you are proficient and experienced in at least one or more of the required research areas listed in the description
Email your complete application documents directly to Dr. Yong Zhang at yongzhang@georgiasouthern.edu
Submit your materials well before the deadline of May 1, 2026, for consideration for the Fall 2026 start date
How to Apply
Highlight your proficiency in programming languages like Python or R and any experience with OMICS data analysis in your personal statement, as these are highly preferred qualifications
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by Dr. Yong Zhang and the Department of Biology based on academic merit, technical skills in computational biology, and alignment with the specific research focus areas