Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Wheat Breeding and Genetics

Updated: 23 days ago
Location: Lincoln, NEBRASKA
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: ;

Position Information
Position Information


Working Title Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Wheat Breeding and Genetics
Department Agronomy & Horticulture-0827
Requisition Number F_240026
Posting Open Date 02/19/2024
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 03/22/2024
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
The post-doctoral research associate will contribute to the research land-grant mission of the home unit and IANR, as an effective scholar and citizen, including supporting student recruitment and IANR science literacy.
This is a one-year (12 months) grant-supported postdoctoral research associate position (100% research). This position is in the area of plant breeding, bioinformatics, and molecular genetics with a particular emphasis on identifying and characterizing Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance genes derived from wheat and its relatives. The incumbent will participate in the genetics and breeding research on FHB disease in wheat and barley. The primary responsibilities of the incumbent are to: 1) Screen wheat and barley materials for FHB resistance in the greenhouse and field; 2) Develop and use molecular markers to assist selection of breeding materials for FHB-resistant germplasm/variety development in wheat and barley; and 3) Perform alien gene introgression for FHB resistance in wheat and barley. In addition, the incumbent will be provided with opportunities to initiate other projects to establish/strengthen her/his research profile. The incumbent will be expected to work in a team environment and contribute to joint research interests/projects of the group.
In addition to the above-described duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, and/or university level.
Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan , every person and every interaction are treated as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.
As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination .
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Ph.D. required in plant breeding, genetics, genomics, or a related discipline.
  • Advanced knowledge of molecular, quantitative, and statistical genetics and genomics.
  • Experience with marker-assisted selection in plant breeding and genome sequence analysis for marker development.
  • Experience with programming in statistical and molecular mapping software such as R or SAS and bioinformatics packages.
  • Demonstrated ability to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Ability to work with diverse and interdisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in wheat and its relatives or other polyploid genetics, genomics, and cytogenetics. Experience with alien introgression for germplasm/variety development and chromosome engineering.
  • Ability to train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students.
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Criminal History Background Check Required
Posted Salary
How to Apply
Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the information form. Attach the following documents:
  • A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions, and your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters. See https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement.
  • Your curriculum vitae.
  • Contact information for three professional references.
  • For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
    Kay McClure
    [email protected]
    Job Category
    Job Category (old) Post Docs & Other Academic
    Job Type Full-Time
    Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? Yes
    If Temporary, indicate end date
    Planned Hire Date
    Appointment End Date
    Organizational Location Default Location


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