Postdoctoral Research Associate

Wheat Genetics and Breeding Group

Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan.

The University of Saskatchewan Wheat Genetics and Breeding Group is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the area of quantitative genetics and plant breeding. Initial appointment is two years, with the possibility of extension.

Research Description and Duties:  The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and conducting studies on the optimization and deployment of targeted re-sequencing strategies for genomic selection of grain yield, disease resistance, and end-use quality as well as other applications of DNA marker information to spring wheat and durum breeding. Research activities will consist of developing and utilizing quantitative genetics theory; utilization of historical phenotypic databases for marker-trait associations, and phenotypic and genomic data collection and analysis.  Experience in next generation sequence analysis using the latest bioinformatics tools would be a strong asset. 

Qualifications and Experience: A Ph.D. in plant breeding, molecular genetics, quantitative genetics or a related discipline is required and must be in place at the time of appointment (no later than May 31, 2013).  Knowledge in quantitative, population, or statistical genetics and their application to plant breeding is required. Strong knowledge and demonstrated experience in experimental design, marker-trait associations, and programming in a statistical software package such as SAS, R, or ASREML is also required. A demonstrated ability to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals is also required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are requirements of the position.

About the Crop Development Centre (CDC):  The CDC was created in 1971, and has released nearly 300 commercial crop varieties since its inception.  The CDC is recognized nationally and internationally for basic and applied crop research and development and successful field crop breeding. Unique to the CDC is its full integration into the Department of Plant Sciences and College of Agriculture and Bioresources.  This integration allows a powerful blend of scientific knowledge, training and skills from a number of disciplines to be applied to each research undertaking.  The CDC also plays a strong and sustained role in training new scientists and technical personnel, serving the present and future needs of plant sciences and plant breeding.  The CDC has access to excellent facilities.  The land base dedicated to plant research totals 1,979 ha (4,890 acres) all within a short distance of the university campus.  25,000 ft² of greenhouse facilities and 8300 ft² of phytotron chamber space are located on the University campus.  For more information about the CDC, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, and the University of Saskatchewan, please visit http://www.usask.ca

Salary and Term: This is a two-year term position with possible renewal for an additional two years.. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

How to Apply:  Please send application via email, including the following components:  a cover letter outlining experience relevant to the position, a curriculum vitae, proof of Ph.D (including transcripts of academic performance during Ph.D program), and the names of three references as a single PDF document by February 10th, 2013 to:

Attention:  Dr. Curtis J. Pozniak
Email: curtis.pozniak@usask.ca

Please Include “PDF-Wheat” in the email subject line.  Applications that do not include all requested information will not be considered.  Please, no phone calls.  We thank all applicants in advance. Only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.