Postdoctoral position in Pea Genome Editing

Department of Plant Breeding
About the position
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a project utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to reduce major antinutritional factors (ANFs) in pea (Pisum sativum L.) seeds. The research will focus on:

• Developing pea mutant lines using both tissue culture-dependent and tissue culture-independent genome editing methods
• Establishing transgene-free genome editing techniques for peas

The ultimate goal is to enhance the nutritional quality and taste of pea seeds while maintaining plant health.

The project involves collaboration with industry partners, including Lantmännen, and offers opportunities to contribute to developing improved pea varieties for sustainable food production in Sweden. This project is primarily funded by SLU Grogrund, the Center for Plant Breeding of Food Crops, which connects academia and industry to advance sustainable and competitive agriculture in Sweden.

Your profile
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with experience in Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Applicants must hold a PhD in biology, biotechnology, plant science, molecular genetics, or a related field.

Required skills and experience:

• In vitro regeneration of pea or legumes
• CRISPR vector construction and genome editing
• Basic bioinformatic skills (e.g., gRNA design, NGS data analysis)
• Strong statistical knowledge for experimental data analysis
• Proficiency in English (both spoken and written)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Additional desirable skills, experience in:

• working with RNP-based or other transgene-free genome editing methods
• working with particle bombardment
• working with nanotechnolog
• working with terpenoid compounds or secondary metabolites evidenced by publications

To apply for this position we want you to be a creative, proactive, and independent problem-solver with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Since the position is intended for a junior researcher we are primarily looking for individuals who have obtained their doctoral degree no more than three years ago.

About us
With a changing climate and a growing global population, we face major challenges in supplying food, industrial raw materials, and energy. Meeting the increasing demand for bio-based raw materials requires making plant production more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. At the Department of Plant Breeding, SLU Alnarp, we perform research, education, and innovative extension work that are strategically important for solving the abovementioned challenges. We use a wide range of conventional and modern breeding technologies, ranging from field experiments and evaluation of genetic diversity to genetic, omics, biotechnological, biochemical, and physiological approaches. In the biotechnology division, we focus mainly on the genetic improvement of important traits via genome editing.

For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/institutioner/vaxtforadling/

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

Location:
Alnarp

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

Scope:
100%

Start date:
July 1st, 2025 or according to agreement.

Application:
Please submit your application before deadline 12 March, 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Union representatives:
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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.