Genomic Breeding Post Doc - Potatoes

The Shannon Potato Genomics and Breeding Lab at University of Minnesota is looking for a genomic breeding post doc to analyze genomic, phenomic, agronomic, and environmental data for the breeding program. The Shannon Lab breeds russets, chips, and fresh-market red and yellow potatoes at the tetraploid and diploid level. We develop high yielding potato varieties with enhanced quality traits and increased biotic and abiotic stress resistance for Minnesota growers. Initially, the post doc will be responsible for QTL analysis for microbiome traits as they relate to verticillium wilt, developing tools to screen and select for bruise and leak resistance, and building/updating genomic selection models for the breeding program. However, there will also be opportunities to develop new projects and directions based on interests. The Shannon lab collaborates closely with other breeding programs in the North Central Region (NDSU, UW, MSU) and the candidate will be invited to participate in these collaborations. The position is reappointed on an annual basis. Start date is flexible.

The lab is located in the Department of Horticultural Science on the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota. UMN has an active plant breeding community (https://plantbreed.umn.edu/). It is the rare agricultural school located in a major metro area. Although the St. Paul campus is suburban it is a 10 minute campus connector bus ride to downtown Minneapolis, which has a plethora of restaurants, museums, theaters, sports teams, breweries and anything else you want from a city. Additionally, Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes and there are opportunities for biking, hiking, birding, boating, cross-country skiing etc. within a short distance from campus.

In the Shannon lab we work to create the kind of diverse scientific communities we want to be part of. People of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and we expect applicants to have a similar commitment to creating and maintaining an inclusive environment where potatoes and people can grow.

Responsibilities

Analysis of Breeding Program Data (50%)

• Design and carry out analysis of genomic, phenomic, agronomic, and environmental data for the breeding program, primarily but not exclusively at the tetraploid level.

Management of Breeding Program Database (15%)

• Manage a Breedbase data base for potato breeders in the North Central region.
• Train collaborators in its use.
• Enter breeding program data into the database and assist lab members in retrieving data from Potatobase.
• Stay abreast of new functions within Potatobase and alert the lab and collaborators.
• Update trait ontology as necessary

Manuscript Preparation (20%)

• Write first author papers for journal publication based on data analysis, and contribute to manuscripts of other lab members by carrying out analysis, producing figures, and writing methods sections.

Field and greenhouse work (15%)

• Participate in lab wide potato breeding efforts at the tetraploid and diploid level.
• Work will vary by season and will include activities such as field preparation, planting, harvest, plant care, seed preparation, and dihaploid extractions.
• Physical work in a variety of indoor and outdoor conditions is required.
• Overnight travel during peak seasons is required.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in plant breeding, genetics or a similar discipline
• Large scale data analysis experience
• Publication record in plant breeding or quantitative genetics
• Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills

Desired Qualifications

• Project management experience
• Background in autopolyploid genomics
• Experience with analyzing drone data
• Interest in nitrogen or water use efficiency or breeding for disease resistance

Special Requirements: This position will include both greenhouse and agricultural fieldwork, which will include transporting 50+ lb crates of potatoes and bags of soil, moving through fields, riding farm equipment, and digging. Furthermore, it will involve overnight travel to research sites within Minnesota especially between April and October.

Pay Range: $61,008 - $65,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please apply with cover letter, CV, and sample publication through the University of Minnesota hiring portal.

Questions can be directed to Dr. Laura Shannon: lmshannon@umn.edu.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).