Two Postdoctoral Positions in ‘Molecular Genetics of Durable Disease Resistance in Cereals’

We are looking for two highly motivated, enthusiastic, and talented scientists to join the Cereal Genetics and Genomics group at KAUST (https://cerealgenomics.kaust.edu.sa/). Our research focuses on the identification and molecular characterization of biotic stress resistance genes in cereal crops. In particular, we want to understand the genetic and molecular basis of durable resistance against the devastating fungal rust pathogens in wheat and barley. Our mission is to contribute to cutting-edge research of high impact as well as to translate basic science into better crops.

 

Task

Durable disease resistance mechanisms are only poorly understood on the molecular level. The task of the first postdoctoral position is the cloning of quantitative resistance genes from wheat cultivars with high levels of durable stripe rust resistance. The cloning of genes in wheat and barley is complicated by their large and complex genomes. Our group developed and implemented genomics-assisted gene cloning tools to speed up the process of gene cloning (see for example https://www.nature.com/articles/nbt.3877). The second postdoctoral researcher will work on the molecular characterization of a recently discovered lectin receptor kinase that modulates host and non-host resistance to leaf rust in barley (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41477-019-0545-2). The tasks include the establishment of molecular (e.g. domain-swapping), genetic (e.g. mutagenesis), and biochemical tools to understand the quantitative regulation of host and non-host resistance.

 

Requirements

We are seeking two outstanding scientists who have recently been awarded a PhD degree in genetics, molecular biology, plant biology, biochemistry, or similar. Applicants must have a strong and demonstrated track record in one of these areas. Experience in map-based cloning, pathology, and cereal research are preferable.

 

Offer

We offer a friendly, international, dynamic and team-oriented scientific environment in a young research group. In particular, this position offers to work at the interface of modern molecular biology, genetics and plant breeding. We offer a highly competitive salary, free housing and subsidized medical insurance. For more information about living and working at KAUST, please refer to the University website: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/live

Contact

For questions relating to the position, kindly contact Prof. Simon Krattinger, simon.krattinger@kaust.edu.sa. Please send your application as single PDF-File by e-mail. Applications should include: full CV and publication list, a statement of research interests not exceeding one page, and three academic references. Applications are accepted from July 2020 until the position is filled. Position start date is October 1st 2020.

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