Postdoctoral Position in the Grain Research Programme

We seek to hire a postdoctoral research fellow to conduct research on Northern Corn Leaf Blight (NCLB) within the Grain Research Programme. This position is part of an ongoing collaboration between FABI (the University of Pretoria), Grain SA and other industry partners.

NCLB is one of the most important foliar diseases affecting maize production across the world. It iscaused by the fungus Exserohilum turcicum. The successful candidate will be expected to generatewhole genomes sequences, complete population genetics and determine physiological race diversityof Exserohilum turcicum. The ideal candidate will have a background in one or more of the followingdisciplines: plant pathology, mycology and genetics (includes experience in whole genome sequencingand population genetics).

Required Qualifications: PhD in plant pathology, microbiology, genetics or closely related field;demonstrated analytical/statistical abilities and writing skills; ability to work independently and as partof a team (see https://www.fabinet.up.ac.za/); publication record; valid driver’s license; and be able andwilling to do physical fieldwork. Preference will be given to candidates with previous researchexperience post a PhD.

Responsibilities: The postdoc will be responsible for:

1) contributing to the design of experiments andfuture proposals related to NCLB;

2) supervising postgraduate students;

3) analysis and publication ofongoing projects; and

4) presenting results at professional, stakeholder and extension meetings.

Compensation: The compensation package for this position is very competitive and is dependent onexperience.

Duration: 12 months, full-time initial appointment with the possibility of two years additional support, conditional on satisfactory performance (evaluated annually) and the availability of funds.

Preferred start date: As soon as possible.

Application Process: Email to Prof Cobus M Visagie (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) and Prof BernardSlippers (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.):

1) a cover letter that includes your research interests andqualifications and analytical and writing experience;

2) Curriculum Vitae;

3) 1–2 representativepublications, and

4) contact information for three referees.

Review of applicants will commence on 17 May 2021 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.