About the position
About the Job
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to lead
research focused on the identification, characterization, mapping,
and deployment of novel genetic resistance to rust diseases of
wheat and oats, with an emphasis on wheat stem rust and oat crown
rust and stem rust.
The successful candidate will integrate plant genetics, genomics,
quantitative genetics, and marker-assisted breeding to discover and
characterize novel sources of disease resistance and facilitate
their deployment in adapted breeding germplasm. The position will
involve developing and evaluating mapping populations, conducting
genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and genetic mapping
analyses, developing DNA markers linked to resistance loci, and
introgressing novel resistance genes into advanced breeding
lines.
Post-Doctoral Associates conduct research and/or services that
provide further development of career skills or allow them
opportunities to learn new research techniques. They are trained by
and work in conjunction with a faculty mentor who determines the
training agenda.
Position is planned for two years with extension possible depending
on satisfactory performance and funding.
Job Duties:
60% Develop and phenotype mapping populations for genetic analysis
of rust resistance in wheat and oats. Perform GWAS, linkage
mapping, QTL analysis, and other genetic analyses to identify
genomic regions and candidate loci associated with disease
resistance. Characterize and introgress novel resistance genes into
advanced wheat and oat breeding lines through strategic crossing
and backcrossing. Develop, validate, and deploy DNA-based molecular
markers closely linked to or diagnostic for resistance loci.
20% Development of publications and presentations to distribute
research results to the scientific community and other
stakeholders
10% Conceptualize and write grant proposals to cultivate strong
extramural support for wheat and oats improvement and
research
10% Mentor/Supervise graduate and undergraduate students
Qualifications
Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in plant breeding, plant
pathology, or genetics. The individual may be immediate post-degree
or returning for additional training, updating, and/or
retooling.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with genome-wide genotyping data, quantitative
genetics, QTL and GWAS mapping, bioinformatics, proficiency in R,
Python and/or Linux command line
- Experience with DNA/RNA extraction and marker development
- Experience working with large-scale datasets
- Experience with plant phenotyping for disease resistance,
including field and greenhouse evaluations
- Strong communication skills
About the Department
The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty
members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics,
biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop
physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of
traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices
for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper
Midwest. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant
Science, and Plant and Microbial Biology graduate programs. The
faculty teach in the Plant Science, and Food Systems and
Sustainable Agriculture interdepartmental undergraduate
programs.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $65,000 ; depending on
education/qualifications/experience
Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more
information regarding benefit eligibility.
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional
training
- Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
- Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
- University HSA contributions
- Disability and life insurance
- Employee wellbeing program
- Financial counseling services
- Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling
at no cost
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this
position, please click the Apply button and follow the
instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online
application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume
or CV.
This position will remain open until filled.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please
e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity
and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its
employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is
committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying
identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and
opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without
regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender,
age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran
status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful
completion of a background check. Our presumption is that
prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal
convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from
employment.
About University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the
largest public research universities in the country, offering
undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of
opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one
of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities,
students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from
extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers,
international corporations, government agencies, and arts,
nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by
Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer
for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State
(2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence &
Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life
flexibility.
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