Postdoc on developing genomic resources for a newly domesticated crop

Are you passionate about pioneering research in genomics and contributing to the advancement of sustainable agriculture? The Department of Plant Breeding at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) invites applications for an exciting Postdoctoral researcher position focused on developing genomic resources for the fast-track domestication of a novel oilseed crop. This opportunity allows you to be at the forefront of cutting-edge research, influencing the future of food production and environmental sustainability.

During the past three decades, field cress (Lepidium campestre) has been targeted for domestication at SLU, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences as a winter-hardy oilseed crop for the Nordic region. Since the initiation of the project, advanced breeding lines have been developed and a substantial amount of genomic and transcriptomic data has been collected. These data will contribute to the development of genomics-based breeding tools for the accelerated advancement of field cress towards a commercial crop.

We are seeking a dynamic and skillful candidate who contributes to the research and development of field cress (Lepidium campestre), a novel crop under fast-track domestication. The primary focus will be on the analysis of genomic, transcriptomic and phenotypic data, coupled with the development of molecular markers. The work also involves greenhouse and field activities to some extent although the emphasis will be on computational genomic, transcriptomic, and marker-trait association analyses of field cress, and the evolutionary relationship of field cress with other Brassicaceae species. The candidate will be responsible for data interpretation and manuscript preparation. Additional duties may include student supervision and other minor tasks to support the department.

Are you a highly motivated candidate with a PhD degree in plant biology, genetics or plant breeding, or related fields? Have you expertise in genomic data analysis, bioinformatics and computational methods? Have you experience from working with transcriptomic and phenotypic data then we encourage you to apply.

The working language is English, and hence excellent written and spoken English is a requirement. You should have a demonstrated ability to translate complex “omics” data into impactful publications and a track record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, it is of great importance that the you have good communication and collaboration skills. 

Experience in comparative genomics, plant breeding and marker-assisted selection is advantageous. Communication in one or more of the Scandinavian languages is desirable. Emphasis will be placed on your personal qualities, such as drive, independence, and thoroughness, as well as how your experience and expertise will enhance advanced research in the department. 

As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree that is three years old at most.

For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/en/departments/plant-breeding/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Alnarp

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

100%

March 1st, 2024 or as agreed. 

Please submit your application before deadline 15 of February 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Contact person

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=9503&rmlang=UK