SCRI is Scotland's leading institute for research on plants and their interactions with the environment, particularly in managed eco-systems. Our mission is to conduct excellent research in plant and environmental sciences. Our vision is to deliver innovative products, knowledge and services that enrich the life of the community and address the public goods of sustainability and high quality and healthy food.

Post Doctoral Research Scientists

The barley research programme at SCRI is being strengthened by the creation of two new post-doctoral appointments in molecular pathology and disease resistance. These posts will form two of three interlinked strands of research on the important and most problematic disease of barley; Rhynchosporium secalBarley Molecular Pathologistis, commonly known as 'rhynchosporium' or 'scald'. The post holders will lead collaborative research programmes that will complement an established programme on rhynchosporium epidemiology and population genetics.

The post holders will have access to state of the art facilities to further their research and will work with colleagues in Pathology and Genetics programmes to discover and characterise pathogenicity effectors and resistance genes leading to an understanding of durable disease resistance.

Barley Molecular Geneticist (Ref No: PP/4/8)

You will apply cutting edge genetic / genomic approaches to gain an in-depth understanding of components (genes / proteins) underlying quantitative plant resistance to this important disease and provide tools for practical application in commercial barley breeding programmes.

Consideration will be given to appointing to this post at Band F (salary up to =A345,675) in respect of applicants offering exceptional skills and experience.

A newly established science post to develop a research programme focussed on the mechanisms of resistance of barley to Rhynchosporium secalis (rhynchosporium or scald). This is one of two appointments being made to strengthen ongoing research in barley pathology and resistance genetics. The post holders will work collaboratively with colleagues in Genetics and Pathology programmes to investigate disease resistance mechanisms and aim to discover and characterise novel genes and germplasm underpinning durable disease resistance.

Description of the main scientific area/topic of research:

The post holder will apply cutting edge genetic / genomic approaches to investigate the interaction between barley and Rhynchosporium secalis. The major aim is to gain an in-depth understanding of components (genes / proteins) underlying quantitative plant resistance to this important disease. A secondary aim will be to provide tools for practical application in commercial barley breeding programmes. The postholder will be expected to work closely with geneticists, molecular biologists, epidemiologists, statisticians and informaticists to establish a program of research firmly rooted in plant genome analysis. The existing barley genetics research programme at SCRI will provide rapid and unencumbered access to state of the art tools, technologies, and biological and informatics resources to support the development of the research programme. Additional responsibilities will include the development of a strong peer-reviewed publication portfolio, establishing external income streams and representing the institute at national and international scientific meetings.

Contribution to Programme science objectives 2006-2011: The proposed position could contribute to the following objective.

* Identify the location of genes underlying key traits
* Develop novel genetic / transgenic strategies for efficient gene identification and validation
* Develop advanced germplasm through commercial breeding partnerships
* Enhance Links with Breeders, SAC, Universities, RRES, JIC, International community

Anticipated contribution to SEERAD Workpackage (including proportion of time):
The post will contribute significantly to the required outputs and research programmes of WP 1.4 (Barley Pathology), is highly relevant to WP 1.1 (Barley Genetics) and potentially relevant to 1.7.

Contribution to cross-programme objectives 2006-2011:
Durable resistance will play a major role in adapting to climate change.

Potential sources of non-RERAD funding:
BBSRC (partnerships), EU, Leverhulme, DEFRA, Generation Challenge Program, Marie Curie, HGCA

Informal enquiries can be directed to:
Adrian.Newton@scri.ac.uk;
Robbie.Waugh@scri.ac.uk or
Lesley.Torrance@scri.ac.uk

Further details of the research conducted at SCRI can be found at www.scri.ac.uk/research

Further information on the posts is available on our website or by
contacting the HR office on 01382 568561.

To apply, please send a covering letter and curriculum vitae with names
and contact details of three referees, quoting the appropriate reference
number to:

Human Resources Office
SCRI
Invergowrie
Dundee
DD2 5DA

The closing date is Friday 16th May