Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D.) in Food Microbiology and Biofilm Persistence at Penn State University in Pennsylvania, USA

1Opportunity details

• ✓Graduate Research Assistantship (Ph.D.) in Food Microbiology and Biofilm Persistence Dr. Valentina Trinetta Email: vik5181@psu.edu Anticipated Start: Fall 2027 send Microbiology and Safety Applied Laboratory is seeking a motivated Ph.D. student to investigate microbial biofilm persistence, community dynamics, and sanitizer tolerance in food-processing environments. Our research integrates traditional microbiology, advanced molecular approaches, genomics, and data-driven modeling to better understand why microorganisms survive sanitation interventions and how these findings can improve food safety. Research Themes 1. Biofilm Persistence and Microbial Ecology: Investigating the abundance, distribution, survival, and persistence of foodborne pathogens and associated microbial communities in food-processing environments, including the role of environmental conditions and microbial interactions in biofilm formation. 2. Culture-Dependent and Culture-Independent Characterization: Integrating traditional microbiological methods with advanced molecular tools, including digital PCR (dPCR), genomic sequencing, and bioinformatics, to characterize microbial populations, evaluate sanitizer tolerance, and better understand microbial persistence following sanitation 3. Predictive Modeling and Sanitizer Rotation: Applying statistical and machine learning approaches to identify factors associated with microbial persistence, predict sanitation outcomes, and evaluate the effectiveness of sanitizer rotation strategies. Desired Qualifications + Academic Background: B.S. or M.S. in Food Science, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a closely related discipline. + Technical Skills: Experience in microbiological techniques, biofilm assays, molecular biology, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, or sequencing approaches is desirable. + Computational Skills: Interest or experience in bioinformatics and statistical analysis. + Core Competencies: Strong scientific curiosity, analytical thinking, written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment. Position Details «Degree: Ph.D. in Food Science. «Start Date: Fall 2027 (anticipated). + Funding: Assistantship details will be provided during recruitment. How to Apply Interested applicants should email Dr. Valentina Trinetta (vtk5181@psu.edu) with the subject line "Ph.D. Position Inquiry – Biofilm Persistence" and include: 1. Abrief statement of research interests, relevant experience, and career goals. 2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé. 3. Unofficial academic transcripts. 4. Contactinformation for 2-3 academic or professional references. Selected applicants will be contacted for an initial interview and guided through the formal Penn State graduate application process.