Postdoctoral Researcher in Genomic Stability and Breeding of Synthetic Allotetraploid Tomatoes

Job Description

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher, skilled in genomics, to join our interdisciplinary team researching genomic stability of synthetic allotetraploid tomatoes. This position is part of an ambitious project aiming to harness the potential of polyploidy to improve crop performance, stress resilience, and yield stability.

Excellent terms and conditions in an outstanding research environment, tackling an interesting research question with strong applied outcomes. The project explores the use of synthetic polyploidy as a new approach to horticultural rootstock breeding, combining the resilience and genetic diversity of wild crop relatives with the benefits of hybrid vigor and polyploidy. A key challenge is that synthetic polyploids can show genomic and phenotypic instability. The successful candidate will investigate the mechanisms underlying these differences in stability using a combination of genomics, transcriptomics, cytogenetics, recombination analysis, and phenotyping. Ultimately, the project aims to develop approaches for predicting and selecting stable polyploid lines, helping establish a new breeding strategy for more resilient and productive horticultural crops.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct genomic analyses, including whole-genome sequencing and transcriptomics, to study structural variations, recombination events, and sub-genome interactions.
• Perform cytogenetic experiments (e.g., GISH) to analyze meiotic behavior and chromosomal stability in synthetic allotetraploid lines.
• Collaborate with field trial teams to evaluate agronomic traits such as yield, stress tolerance, and graft compatibility in allotetraploid rootstocks.
• Develop pipelines and workflows for genomic data analysis, integrating phenotypic and molecular datasets.
• Mentor and supervise graduate and visiting students involved in related research tasks.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts and presentations to disseminate findings in high-impact journals and conferences.

What We Offer

• Access to world-class research facilities at KAUST, including genomics, phenomics, and computational resources.
• Opportunities for collaboration with leading experts in plant genomics and breeding.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including relocation support, health insurance, and professional development funding.
• A vibrant, international research community in a state-of-the-art campus on the Red Sea coast.

Starting date: As soon as possible
Position Type: Full-time, fixed-term (2–3 years)

About KAUST

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a graduate-level research institution dedicated to advancing science and technology through interdisciplinary research. With state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative environment, and a stunning location by the Red Sea, KAUST provides an exceptional setting for innovation and discovery.

We look forward to welcoming a passionate and driven researcher to our team to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in plant breeding and genomic stability.