The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences in the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Oklahoma State University invites applications for a Research Associate in the Wheat Molecular Genetics and Breeding Laboratory.
The Research Associate will oversee and execute research projects in two principal areas:
1) Discover and identify natural allelic variation for agronomically important traits, including developmental phases, grain yield and yield components, and resistance against diseases and insects.
2) Explore and use gene-editing technology to create novel alleles in wheat. The resulting genetic materials will be translated into winter wheat breeding traits that are economically important to the southern Great Plains.
The successful candidate will also serve as coordinator: coordinating lab research activities with undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and visiting scholars; and coordinating research projects with scientists on the OSU Wheat Improvement Team.
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications include a Ph.D. in Crop Science, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field. Applicants must have a minimum of two (2) years of experience in plant genetics and breeding. The successful candidate will have the following: commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and collegiality; strong working knowledge of basic genetic principles such as QTL mapping; considerable experience in genotyping, gene expression, and phenotyping; considerable experience with agricultural research, including greenhouse management and field small plot research; demonstrated ability to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals; and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred qualifications include a Ph.D. in Plant Genetics or Genomics. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in QTL mapping, transformation and tissue culture, plant-microbe interactions, and marker-assisted selection.
Employment Conditions
This is an 11-month, non-tenure track temporary faculty position. This position will be filled by July 2024 or as soon thereafter as an acceptable applicant is available. Annual salary offered is $48,000 - $60,000 based upon qualifications. Check out our competitive benefits and eligibility at https://hr.okstate.edu/prospective-ee.html.
Application
Formal applications are via electronic submission at https://jobs.okstate.edu; search for req17487. To apply, candidates should submit: (a) a letter of application that includes qualifications and associated research activities, a statement of research interest as applicable; (b) curriculum vitae; (c) official academic transcripts from their degree-granting institutions; (d) names and contact information of three professional references. Questions can be directed to Dr. Liuling Yan, Regents Professor (liuling.yan@okstate.edu, or 405.744.9608). Review of applications will begin 05/01/2024. Review of applications will continue until suitable candidates are selected.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit https:///eeo.okstate.edu.