美国密苏里大学 Zhu Lab 招收 2027 Fall PhD｜植物-微生物互作/单细胞与空间组学

The Zhu Lab at the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is recruiting motivated PhD students to the lab in Fall 2027. Zhu lab studies plant–microbe interactions and the spatial organization of plant immunity. We are particularly interested in understanding how immune responses are spatially organized across cells and tissues and coordinated to restrict pathogen infection while maintaining plant growth. Our research integrates live-cell imaging, molecular genetics, plant pathology, single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and quantitative image analysis. Current projects use Arabidopsis and soybean–pathogen systems to address fundamental questions in plant immunity and disease resistance.
The position is suitable for students interested in research at the intersection of plant biology, cell biology, plant immunity, and plant–microbe interactions. Students will receive training in approaches including molecular genetics, plant pathology, live-cell imaging, confocal microscopy, quantitative image analysis, single-cell RNA-seq, and spatial transcriptomics.
Applicants with backgrounds in plant pathology, plant biology, molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
The Zhu Lab is in the Division of Biological Sciences at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Lab members have access to excellent resources in confocal microscopy, genomics, bioinformatics, high-performance computing, plant growth facilities, and interdisciplinary plant science. We provide a collaborative and rigorous research environment that supports the development of scientific independence, technical expertise, and professional skills.
How to Apply
Prospective students interested in Fall 2027 admission are encouraged to send the CV to Dr. Zhu (jiezhu[at]missouri.edu) early to discuss research interests and graduate program application opportunities.