Scope of Research
We are seeking to appoint a postdoctoral fellow to contribute to a project titled “Harnessing triterpenoid biosynthesis in grapevine for sustainable agriculture”. The research aims identify and functional characterise genes involved in triterpene biosynthesis in Vitis Vinifera (grapevine).
Several approaches, including gene coexpression, molecular phylogenetic and comparative genomic analyses will be employed for gene identification. Candidate genes will be cloned into relevant expression vectors and assayed in heterologous systems via GC-MS.
We aim to perform combinatorial analysis of candidate genes as well as investigate the genomic diversity of candidate genes across multiple grapevine cultivars. This research will generate fundamental knowledge of the potential of triterpene metabolism in grapevine as well as explore how this knowledge may be exploited to improve agricultural practices.
The postdoctoral fellow will be directly responsible and involved in all aspects of the proposed research as well as having the opportunity to collaborate on, and supervise, other related projects in the lab. The Lashbrooke lab is interested specialised metabolism in fruit species, with a particular focus on exploring the genomic diversity contributing to this metabolism and the involvement of these metabolites in plant-environment interactions. The funded fellowship is initially granted for two years, with the possibility to seek additional funding to extend the research.
Requirements:
We are seeking an individual with a PhD in plant molecular biology, plant genomics, plant biotechnology, plant biochemistry or a related field, obtained within the last five years. Candidates should be self-motivated with a desire to contribute to a research team.
Experience in plant molecular biology is a must. While knowledge of chemical analytical and/or genomic analysis techniques would be beneficial. A strong interest in plant metabolism is essential.
Additional beneficial skills include good communication capability in English, ability to plan projects, clear and accurate reporting of lab experiments. The ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate their proficiency through their publication track record with scholarly articles relevant to this position.
Commencement date: July 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter
Closing date: 26 April 2024
Enquiries: Send a one-page letter of motivation, accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and the names and contact details of two referees, to jglash@sun.ac.za
Contact details of the host: Dr Justin Lashbrooke
Department of Genetics Stellenbosch University
7600 South Africa
jglash@sun.ac.za / +27 21 808 9913
Postdoctoral fellows are not appointed as employees and as their fellowships are awarded tax-free, they are not eligible for employee benefits.
The University reserves the right NOT to make an appointment if suitable candidates do not apply.
