Postdoctoral Scientist: Plant Genetic Resources, Leibniz Institute, Germany

Summary

The Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK Gatersleben) is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) to join the Resources Genetics and Reproduction research group led by Dr. Anna Backhaus. The position is part of the collaborative BMFTR-funded project “MZF: Twin-3”, focusing on genebank phenomics and genomics for future barley conservation and utilization.

Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) in the Field of Plant Genetic Resources

Designation

Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d)

Key Information Overview

Research Area

• Field: Plant Genetic Resources, Genebank Phenomics, and Genomics
• Topic: Genebank phenomics and genomics for future barley conservation and use
• Core Focus: Utilizing “digital twin” resources and advanced optical/multispectral seed imaging to enhance genebank management, seed health, viability testing, and genotype sorting.

Location

Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)

OT Gatersleben, Corrensstraße 3, 06466 Seeland, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

Eligibility / Qualifications

• Education: PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (Plant Biology, Genomics, Phenomics, or related fields).
• Domain Knowledge: Solid theoretical foundation in phenomics and/or genomics.
• Technical Skills:
  • Experience with data analysis workflows, ideally in image analysis.
  • Affinity for command-line bioinformatic tools and large-scale data processing.
• Personal Competencies:
  • Passion for biology and plant diversity.
  • Strong self-motivation, organization, and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent spoken and written English proficiency.

Job Description & Responsibilities

• Manage field trials and oversee associated phenotypic data acquisition.
• Lead the development of novel high-throughput phenotyping approaches for seed analysis.
• Independently analyze large-scale, multi-source datasets combining genomic and phenomic data.
• Generate biological insights into barley genetic diversity and conservation.
• Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research outcomes.

How to Apply

1. Required Documents: Prepare a single PDF document containing:
   • Letter of motivation
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Degree certificates and transcripts
2. Submission: Submit through the IPK Gatersleben Online Application Portal.
3. Reference Code: Mention reference number 34/08/26 in your application.
4. Contacts:
   • Scientific Queries: Dr. Anna Backhaus (Tel: +49 (0) 39482 5202)
   • Administrative / HR Queries: Kerstin Schweigert (jobs@ipk-gatersleben.de)

(Note: Candidates holding foreign academic degrees must obtain a Statement of Comparability from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) prior to appointment.)

Last Date to Apply

October 1, 2026

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