2 Postdoc Positions University of Florida, Barley and Sugarcane Biotechnology

Two Postdoctoral researcher positions in genetic engineering/targeted mutagenesis of sugarcane (position 1) or barley (position2) are expected to become available in Dr. Fredy Altpeter’s monocot  biotechnology program at the University of Florida. The positions will be part of our expanding plant metabolic engineering and biotechnology research focus, which is co-funded by USDA, USDOE and industry. The postdoc researchers will participate in the development of advanced genetic transformation technology for sugarcane or barley, TALEN mediated mutagenesis and targeted integration of transgenes. The research objectives include the development of a protocol for TALEN mediated mutagenesis of sugarcane and barley and its application for crop improvement and transgene stacking. The research will involve vector construction, tissue culture, genetic transformation, enzyme and reporter gene assays, qRT-PCR, sequencing of the targeted integration site, Southern blot analysis, biochemical analysis. For this position the incoming postdocs will have extensive experience in vector construction, molecular characterization of transgenic plants, tissue culture and genetic transformation of plants using agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer, experience with genetic transformation of cereals or sugarcane will be a plus. The incoming postdocs will have a good command of oral and written English and scientific management skills. He or she will be able to prepare various reports, publications and grant proposals. We particularly encourage recent graduates with the relevant research experience to apply.

The monocot biotechnology research program was established at the University of Florida in 2001 and has successfully developed advanced protocols for genetic characterization and improvement of sugarcane and other grasses via agrobacterium-mediated or biolistic gene transfer (2012 publications: Plant Biotechnol J. (2012) Dec;10(9):1067-76; In Vitro Cellular & Developmental Biology – Plant (2012) 48:15-22; Plant Cell Tiss Organ Cult (2012) 111: 131-141; Plant Cell Tiss Organ Cult (2012) 108:297–302). The general lab environment is collaborative, friendly, dedicated, and constructive. We expect our future colleagues to have three calibers. First, he or she should be highly motivated, dedicated, proactive on milestones, and enjoying scientific research. Second, he or she should have basic scientific training for aforementioned background, excellent communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Third, he or she would like to work relatively independently yet also be collegial. University of Florida is a major research university located in Gainesville FL. Gainesville, FL provides affordable and high quality living. For further information, please visit our website http://agronomy.ifas.ufl.edu/fredy-altpeter/profile/. 

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application by e-mail to Fredy Altpeter at altpeter@ufl.edu. Please provide also details on your US visa history (if foreign applicant), contact details of three professional references and earliest possible starting date.