Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Post-Doctoral Associate to join our team in the Horticultural Science Department at the University of Florida. The successful candidate will work on generating and testing genome editing tools to support our blueberry breeding program. The goal of this position is to identify candidate genes associated with traits relevant to blueberry and test their functionality through targeted mutagenesis.
Key Responsibilities:
- Use molecular tools to characterize candidate genes, including DNA and RNA extraction, real-time PCR, gene cloning, and vector construction.
- Implement tissue culture techniques to propagate, regenerate, and transform selected blueberry cultivars from the breeding program.
- Work with an interdisciplinary team to support the execution of proposed activities related to genome editing.
- Contribute to improving proposed research projects and providing new ideas for future projects.
- Mentor undergrad and graduate students, prepare reports and presentations, and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements:
- A doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in plant biology, breeding physiology, agronomy with a specialization in plant transformation or gene editing, or related fields.
- Experience with molecular and tissue culture techniques, as well as bioinformatics and statistics.
- Mentoring, tutoring, or other work that demonstrates an ability to train junior scientists.
- Self-motivated and well-organized, with the ability to work independently and think critically.
- Good written and spoken communication skills.
- A commitment to excellence, discovery & innovation, inclusion, freedom & civility, community, and stewardship.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Woody plant or fruit crop genome editing/genetic transformation experience.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary starting at $50,000, commensurate with experience.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development in research, teaching, grant writing, extension, and mentoring.
- State-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
- Interdisciplinary team environment.
How to Apply:
To apply, please submit:
- Cover letter stating applicant's motivation and qualifications.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for 3 individuals willing to write letters of recommendation.
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