Postdoctoral Scholarship (2 years) in Plant Cell Wall Integrity, Stress Response and Nutrient Bioavailability
The postdoctoral scholarship is going to be placed at the Department of Plant Physiology, which is part of Umeå Plant Science Centre. Our common goal is to understand the ability of plants to adapt and acclimate to a changing world.
Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC) is one of the strongest research environments for basic plant research in Europe. Research at UPSC covers a wide range of disciplines in plant biology including ecology, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology (see www.upsc.se).
We are offering a postdoctoral scholarship within the “Eat the wall!” project in Laura Bacete’s research group. The postdoctoral scholarship refers to full-time studies for two years and is funded by the Kempe foundation. The scholarship amounts to 350 000 SEK per year and is not subject to tax. The PI covers running costs for the project. Starting date 1 September 2024 or according to agreement.
Project description
In the "Eat the Wall!" project, we will elucidate how cell wall modifications in crops impact stress resistance and nutrient bioavailability. Our aim is to explore the role of C2H2-type zinc finger transcription factors (ZF-TFs) in coordinating environmental stress responses and maintaining cell wall integrity. We will focus on agronomically significant species such as rapeseed, tomato, and barley. For this fellowship, the research will concentrate on studying the effects of C2H2-ZF-TF gene manipulation on cell wall structure and mechanics. This will involve creating knockout and overexpression lines, analysing cell wall composition and mechanics, and testing the plants' resistance to drought and cold stresses. Additionally, we will assess nutrient availability and organoleptic properties, such as texture and taste, in the modified plants.
Qualifications
To qualify as a post-doctoral scholarship holder, the postdoctoral fellow is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree. This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the decision about scholarship recipient. Priority should be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree prior to that may also be eligible. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, appointments of trust in trade union organizations, military service, or similar circumstances, as well as clinical practice or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.
The ideal candidate will have a PhD in plant molecular and cellular biology, cell wall biochemistry, or a related field obtained less than three years ago unless one or several of the special reasons described above apply. A strong interest in plant biophysics and cell wall biology is essential. The candidate should have a solid background in molecular biology techniques such as gene editing (CRISPR-Cas9), RNA sequencing, and biochemical assays. Experience in plant stress responses, cell wall analysis, and nutrient bioavailability is highly desirable. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is essential. The candidate should also possess good social skills and the ability to conduct independent research as well as work effectively in a team.
Application
The application should contain:
Cover Letter (1 page): Provide a concise letter detailing your qualifications and why you are interested in this opportunity. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the project's objectives.
Curriculum Vitae with Full Publication List: Your CV should comprehensively list your educational background, professional experiences, and a detailed publication list. Emphasize key publications and any notable achievements in your academic career.
Research Statement (1 page): Describe your research interests, focusing on alignment with the project's themes. This statement should give a clear picture of your research approach and objectives.
Comprehensive Overview of Research Contributions: This should be a narrative CV based on the ”Resumé for Researchers” by the Royal Society, encompassing the following four modules (maximum 1000 words/2 pages for the four modules, but it can be shorter):
a. Knowledge Generation Contributions: Outline how you've contributed to new ideas, research communication, and significant achievements in your field.
b. Development of Individuals: Highlight your role in mentoring, teaching, and collaborative work, emphasizing your impact on team success and individual development.
c. Contributions to the Wider Research Community: Describe your involvement in activities beyond your own research, such as editorial work, committee participation, and efforts to enhance research culture and integrity.
d. Broader Societal Impact: Explain your engagement in activities that extend the impact of your research to society, industry, and policy-making, including public engagement and knowledge exchange.
Educational Certificates: Include a copy of your doctoral degree, as well as any other relevant academic qualifications.
Additional Relevant Documents: Any other documents you wish to include that you feel are relevant to your application.
Submit your application as a PDF marked with the reference number FS 2.1.6-1185-24, both in the file name and in the subject field of the email, to medel@diarie.umu.se. The application can be written in English or Swedish. Application deadline is 8 July 2024.
Further information
Further information can be obtained from Dr. Laura Bacete (laura.bacete@umu.se).
