Postdoctoral Scientist in Population Genomics: The Institute of Phytopathology at the Christian-Albrechts-Universität in Kiel, Department of Phytopathology and Crop Protection (Head: Prof. Dr. Remco Stam), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scientist position in Pathogen Population Genomics. This four-year position, supported by the German Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), begins in February 2025. The project aims to investigate quantitative disease resistance in barley cultivars against major barley diseases by studying the genetic diversity and population structure of pathogens Ramularia collo-cygni and Fusarium graminearum.
Postdoctoral Scientist in Pathogen Population Genomics
Designation:
Postdoctoral Scientist
Research Area:
Pathogen Population Genomics and Epidemiology
Location:
Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
- Interest in the epidemiology and population genomics of plant pathogens.
- Proven experience in fungal population genomics, with at least one peer-reviewed publication or preprint.
- Proficiency in R and Python.
- Strong independent working style, flexibility, and ability to work in a team.
- Leadership skills to supervise BSc/MSc theses, student helpers, and technical staff.
- Experience with fungal plant pathogens: isolation, propagation, DNA extraction, and qPCR (desired).
- Fieldwork experience, including plant disease scoring (desired).
- A Category B driving license is highly desirable.
Job Description:
Key responsibilities include:
- Field sample collection, scoring, and documentation (supported by a technical assistant).
- Laboratory sample preparation and processing.
- Full genome sequencing of over 1,000 pathogen isolates.
- Population genomic and GxGxE analyses, with interpretation in an epidemiological context.
- Collaborating with stakeholders, including academic and industry partners.
- Preparing reports, presentations, and publications.
- Organizing departmental tasks.
- Supervising BSc/MSc theses and supporting technical staff and student assistants.
What We Offer:
- Exciting research in a dynamic department with a focus on phytopathological topics.
- State-of-the-art laboratory facilities at Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel.
- A high degree of independence in project development.
- Skill development opportunities through seminars and courses at the Postdoc Centre of CAU.
- Networking opportunities with industry experts and academic collaborators.
- Competitive remuneration according to salary scale TVLE13.
How to Apply:
Submit your application as a single PDF document containing:
- A letter of motivation explaining your suitability for the position.
- A curriculum vitae (CV).
- Contact details of at least two references.
Applications should be sent via email to info@phytomed.uni-kiel.de with the subject line: “Ramularia postdoc.”
Last Date to Apply:
Reviewing of applications will begin on 6 January 2025, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.
Additional Notes:
- Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages women, individuals with disabilities, and those with migration backgrounds to apply.
- Informal inquiries are encouraged and can be directed to Prof. Dr. Remco Stam at remco.stam@phytomed.uni-kiel.de.
- Please refrain from including photographs in your application.
- Note: This position is subject to official funding approval by the BMBF, and the start date or content may vary.
Make an impact in the field of pathogen genomics and epidemiology—apply today!
