International Postdoctoral Fellowship: Molecular Marker Plant Breeding Strategies, Australia

August 31, 2010

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International Fellowship, CSIRO Plant Industry

Job Description: We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to design and evaluate alternative breeding strategies using molecular markers. These strategies range from back-cross introgression of single gene traits, to the use of recurrent selection based on QTL and/or genome-wide methods. The fellow will work with breeders of a range of crops to design customised breeding schemes and software to assist this process, and will also research globally efficient methods to improve crops for multiple adaptive traits. The latter will require the design and execution of large complex computer simulations (using existing crop and genetic simulation tools) and the statistical analysis of simulations to identify efficient methods of genetic prediction and selection.

The applicant will work with several scientists in CSIRO, including a programmer, and with well-recognised researchers in the Netherlands, France, UK, USA and Mexico and contribute to a high-profile effort to develop software tools to enable molecular breeding approaches in developing country and public breeding programs. The position is for 3 years from appointment.

Location: Brisbane, Queensland
Salary: $70K – $80K plus up to 15% superannuation
Ref No: 2010/566

To be successful you will have:
* A PhD (or very near completion of) in plant breeding, quantitative genetics or in related area (statistics) with demonstrated skills in these disciplines.
* An understanding of plant breeding methods, experience in comparing breeding strategies and in methods of genetic prediction
* Computational and statistical skills in languages such as R, GenStat, or SAS and excellent skills in the Windows software environment

About CSIRO:
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation (CSIRO), is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities.

CSIRO Plant Industry seeks to benefit Australia’s agri-business industries through research that improves international competitiveness and sustains the resource base. This is achieved by applying strategic research in the plant sciences to promote profitable and sustainable agri-food and fibre industries, develop novel plant produces and improve natural resource management.

Selection Criteria
Note that to be eligible for consideration for appointment to a Postdoctoral fellowship within CSIRO an applicant’s total relevant (Postdoctoral Fellow and Research Scientist) work experience, on completion of the fellowship at CSIRO, must not exceed six full-time equivalent years since confirmation of their doctorate.

Essential:
1. A PhD (or very near completion of) in plant breeding, quantitative genetics or in related area (statistics) with demonstrated skills in these disciplines.
2. Understanding of plant breeding methods in self-pollinated and cross-pollinated crops and of principles of marker-based strategies (introgression and recurrent selection)
3. Experience in comparing breeding strategies and in methods of genetic prediction and their application to breeding
4. Computational and statistical skills in languages such as R, GenStat, or SAS and excellent skills in Windows software environment.
5. Ability to undertake short-term travel to work in various countries.
6. Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
7. Demonstrated ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary research team.

Desirable:
1. Programming skills in C++ and FORTRAN or capacity to quickly learn.
2. Knowledge and experience in the development and/or application of crop simulation models to study adaptation.
3. Skills and experience in visualization of large datasets.

CSIRO is a values based organisation. In your application and at interview you will need to demonstrate behaviours aligned to our values of:
* Integrity of excellent science
* Building trust and respect each day
* Initiative to explore new horizons
* Delivering on commitments
* Safety and sustainability

Application Closing Date: 13 September 2010

How to Apply:

You are required to include two (2) documents:
(1) a document addressing the Selection Criteria; and
(2) a “Resume or CV” including the names of at least two professional referees.

To address the Selection Criteria please write a paragraph or two using each selection criterion as a heading and outline how you are able to meet that criteria. Applicants who do not address the selection criteria may not be considered. For assistance when preparing your application please read the information available at”Guidelines for Applicants”

Applications:

Before you apply ensure that your documents are in Text, MS Word or PDF. Ensure your file is not larger than 1MB in PDF format, or 2MB for all other formats. Your Documents will be converted into PDF format. To view these documents once converted you will need to download Adobe Reader Download Adobe Reader

CSIRO prefers applications be lodged online via this careers site.

If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 301 509 and someone will be able to assist you. Outside business hours please email: csiro-careers@csiro.au.

If you are unable to lodge online, you can fax your application (quoting reference number 2010/566) to +61 2 6276 6641 or alternatively post to:

CSIRO Careers Online
PO Box 225
DICKSON ACT 2602

Further Fellowship Information and Application

Scholarship Tags: Australia, International Fellowship, Plant Breeding