Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Genomic Selection for Crop Breeding)

The Centre for Crop Science

Our centre conducts world-leading research targeting enhanced profitability and sustainability of cereal and legume cropping systems in tropical and sub-tropical environments. We pursue excellence in crop science at molecular, whole plant, and production system levels. Our integrated research capabilities include crop genetics, physiology, and modelling, along with soil science and weed biology

About This Opportunity

A unique Postdoctoral Research Fellow opportunity has arisen within our Sorghum Research Team . You'll lead

• A research effort combining analyses of existing genotypic and phenotypic data
• And advanced genetic and crop simulation methods to investigate;
• The potential to accelerate genetic gain for yield of sorghum in Australian environments through novel genomic selection methods that can account for the effects of genotype by environment interactions.

Working with the sorghum research team members , this position will

• Assemble and mine large genomic and phenotypic data sets
• Apply novel mixed model and machine learning analysis approaches to
  • develop genotype-to-phenotype models for quantitative traits (e.g., tillering, flowering time, yield)
  • study trait-environment relationships and genotype-by-environment interactions for multiple traits and evaluate expected genetic gain for alternative breeding strategies enabled by genomic selection.

This position will communicate the outcomes of these approaches to the sorghum research team members , the broader crop science community, and Australian grain farmers and will assist in applying the recommended genomic selection methods to Australian sorghum breeding programs.

This position is located at our picturesque St Lucia campus , renowned as one of Australia's most attractive university campuses, and located just 7km from Brisbane's city centre. Bounded by the Brisbane River on three sides, and with outstanding public transport connections, our 114-hectare site provides a perfect work environment - you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a vibrant campus with the tradition of an established university.

Our Ideal Candidate

• PhD in an area related to genetic improvement of quantitative traits in crops using applications of genomic technologies to analyse and model complex traits
• Evidence of a contribution to research, including scholarly publications commensurate with experience

Demonstrated;

• • expert knowledge in multi-variate genomic prediction for crop breeding
  • ability to develop software and run software packages appropriate for analysis of large data sets including multiple layers of genomic, phenotypic and environmental data
  • ability to apply genetic and crop simulation methodology to support and complement empirical statistical analysis methodology

Ability;

• • to establish effective relationships and to represent and promote genetic improvement at a university and wider community level, including industry
  • to write and present clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication styles
  • to work collaboratively with colleagues

We value diversity and inclusion, and actively encourage applications from those who bring diversity to the University. Our Diversity and Inclusion webpage contains further information if you require additional support. Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to recruitment@uq.edu.au .

What We Can Offer

This is a full-time, 5 year fixed term position at Academic level A or B pending qualification and experience the successful applicant can bring to the role

The full-time equivalent base salary will be in the range $67,452.89 - $113,728.10, plus super of up to 17%. The total FTE package will be in the range $ 79,025.18 - $133,061.90

You will be able to take advantage of UQ Sport Facilities , recreation leave loading, salary sacrificing options, on-campus childcare, discounted private health insurance, cheap parking, development programs and many other benefits.

For further information, please review The University of Queensland's Enterprise Bargaining Agreement 2018-2021 .

Questions?

To discuss this role please contact Professor Mark Cooper

Want to Apply?

To submit an application for this role, use the APPLY NOW button below. All applicants must supply the following documents:

• Cover letter addressing the selection criteria (no more than 2 pages)
• Resume