Post-doctoral Associate - Tomato Flowering-Time Gene Characterization

The TomatoLab in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland, College Park seeks a postdoctoral associate to lead a project characterising a novel gene that controls flowering time in tomato, a joint effort with USDA ARS. The work uses genetic mapping to characterise the gene and reverse genetics (CRISPR-based mutagenesis) for functional validation, together with functional assays, gene expression profiling and phenotypic characterisation of the mutant and other flowering-time genes.

The postdoc manages experimental workflows, data analysis and timelines for the UMD-USDA ARS collaboration, co-authors publications with ARS scientists, and mentors students. The project is funded for one year with possible renewal for a second; salary range $62,000-$70,000.

PhD in plant biology, genetics, molecular biology, plant biotechnology or a closely related field; demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning, gene expression analysis and functional genomics in plants. Preferred: experience with tomato or other solanaceous crop models, a strong publication record and excellent communication skills. Application: cover letter on research background and interest in the project, CV and contact details for three professional references.