Postdoc on gene editing of R-genes for Late blight resistance in potato

Department of Plant Breeding
About the position

The research of the postdoc position will be focused on utilizing gene editing for modulation or knock-ins of R-genes to generate late blight resistance in cultivated potato.

A variety of strategies will be used for knock-in using R-genes from other Solanum species as well as the activation of endogenous Solanum tuberosum genes that are inactive to late blight response.

Gene edited potato events will be challenged and evaluated in screens regarding improved pathogen resistance from different aspects, including more in depth investigations of plant pathogen interactions.

It is expected that the postdoc will carefully document the work and be central in communicating the research through peer reviewed scientific articles as well as by other means.

The position can also concern supervision of undergraduate and graduate students in advanced experiments related to the conducted research.

Duration of the position is 24 months, which can be extended to 36 months.

Your profile
We are looking for a motivated candidate with a doctoral degree in biology, biotechnology or molecular biology.

Previous practical experience of plant research and molecular biology is a requirement as is proficiency in spoken and written English.

Earlier work on plant tissue culture, genome editing and plant pathogen resistance research is meritorious.

Emphasis is placed on the personal capabilities of the applicant.

The candidate must be analytical and accurate, and have a good ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others within given time frames.

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

About us

SLU's departments of Plant Breeding and Plant Protection Biology in Alnarp (near Lund and Malmö, in Skåne, southern Sweden), focuses on research, education and innovation work of strategic importance for a sustainable and profitable cultivation of crops for production of plant-based food, feed and industrial products in a changing climate.

The postdoc position will be working in a collaborative project between department of Plant Breeding and Plant Protection and is financed by "SLU Grogrund - Centre for Breeding of Food Crops" within an umbrella project "Grogrund healthy crops" that is composed of several additional subprojects on other crops and with additional research teams.

For more information about the department or division visit:

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting:

Location:
Alnarp

Form of employment:
Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:
100%

Start date:
As agreed.

Application:
Please submit your application before deadline 31 July 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Union representatives:

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.

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