Postdoctoral researcher positions in crop evolutionary genomics: The Koenig Lab in the Department of Botany and Plant Sciences at the University of California-Riverside invites applicants for two fully funded postdoctoral research positions available immediately. Both positions will expand on current lab efforts to understand the evolution of plant genomes with a specific emphasis on plant adaptation to the environment.
The candidate for the first position will aim to understand how fitness is encoded in plant genomes using a one of a kind series of long term agricultural experiments, the barley composite crosses (CCs). The CCs are common garden experiments where a diverse group of genotypes have been competed against one another for decades. These classic experiments provide an unparalleled opportunity to link individual molecular genetic variation to fitness in an important crops species over nearly a century of evolution.
The second position will explore the genomic basis of climate adaptation in cowpea, a staple crop in Africa that shows outstanding drought and heat tolerance. The candidate will work with a large collaborative group of American and African researchers to link genomic changes to climate variation across the crop’s range.
Both projects will begin with the analysis of thousands of in hand genome sequences, but may also involve hypothesis testing using wet lab or field experiments. Applicants should have a doctoral degree in plant biology, evolution, genetics, or a related field by the date of hire. Experience in computational biology is requested. Both appointments will be for an initial period of two years with possibility of extension.
To apply: submit a CV, cover letter, and list of two references to Dan Koenig at dkoenig@ucr.edu. Review of applications will commence on August 15th, 2022, and proceed until the positions are filled. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date.
UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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Department of Botany & Plant Sciences
Institute of Integrative Genome Biology
900 University Avenue
2142 Batchelor Hall
Riverside, CA 92521
email: dkoenig@ucr.edu
phone: (951) 233 4186