PhD Position: University of Saskatchewan: The Crop Physiology Research Group at the University of Saskatchewan, led by Dr. Rosalind Bueckert, is seeking a highly motivated prospective Ph.D. student to conduct research in the field of abiotic stress (heat and drought) resistance breeding in pea. The project will involve the evaluation and validation of existing Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers in a genetically diverse set of 80 pea accessions. These accessions will be phenotyped for key heat-associated traits in field trials over multiple seasons and locations. Phenotypic data and previously generated genotypic data (50K SNP array) will be utilized to develop marker-trait associations and identify the best molecular markers for future breeding applications, particularly marker-assisted selection. The prospective student will gain expertise in molecular biology, genetics, phenotyping, and statistical data analysis.
Designation: Ph.D. Student
Research Area: Abiotic stress resistance breeding in pea
Location: University of Saskatchewan, Department of Plant Sciences, Saskatchewan, Canada
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Applicants must have completed a thesis-based M.Sc. degree in relevant fields (e.g., Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Plant Physiology).
- Previous experience in plant phenotyping and field-based trials would be beneficial but not required.
- Strong oral and written communication skills are essential.
- Ability to establish and maintain relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and educational levels.
- Demonstrated capability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- While preference will be given to applicants available to start in May, non-Canadian applicants must be eligible to study in Canada.
- Candidates whose first language is not English and whose degrees are not from an English-instructing university must provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL of 86 or more with 19 or more in each category, or IELTS of 6.5 or more in each category).
- Applications will be considered until the position is filled.
Job Description:
PhD Position: Abiotic Stress Resistance Breeding in Pea
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Conducting research related to abiotic stress resistance breeding in pea.
- Evaluating SNP markers in a diverse set of pea accessions.
- Phenotyping key heat-associated traits in field trials across multiple seasons and locations.
- Analyzing phenotypic and genotypic data to develop marker-trait associations.
- Contributing to the advancement of marker-assisted selection in pea breeding.
- Collaborating with the Crop Physiology Research Group.
Stipend: $30,000/year (Ph.D.)
Start Date: May or September 2024
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following documents as a single PDF attachment to Dr. Rosalind Bueckert at [email address] with the subject line “AbioStress PhD and your name”:
- A cover letter outlining past research experience and career goals.
- An updated curriculum vitae / resume.
- Copies of your degree transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
- Contact information for two individuals willing to provide reference letters.
Last Date for Apply: Applications will be considered until the position is filled.
Additional Information: All applicants must meet admission requirements for the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan (https://grad.usask.ca/programs/plant.sciences.php#Applicationprocess).
We appreciate all applicants for their interest; however, only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. The University of Saskatchewan is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from Indigenous peoples and individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.
Join us 