Postdoctoral Associate - Duguma Lab

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join the Optimum Teff project, focused on improving teff (Eragrostis tef) productivity through genome editing and trait stacking approaches. The project aims to develop improved teff varieties with reduced lodging, grain shattering, and enhanced yield potential.

The successful candidate will conduct research involving gene construct development, CRISPR-based genome editing, molecular and phenotypic characterization of edited plants, and data analysis. The position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to conduct research independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

The position is part of the Optimum Teff research project at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, based in St. Louis, Missouri, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). The successful candidate will work in the Duguma Lab and work closely with national and international project collaborators.

Responsibilities:

• Design and develop gene-editing constructs, including guide RNA design and vector assembly.
• Perform CRISPR-based genome editing and molecular characterization of edited plants.
• Conduct phenotypic evaluation of edited plants under greenhouse and field conditions.
• Apply basic bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis, gene identification, and editing validation.
• Organize, analyze, and maintain experimental data and research records.
• Prepare regular research progress reports, presentations, and scientific manuscripts.
• Independently plan and execute experiments and communicate results to supervisors and project collaborators.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Demonstrated experience in molecular biology, including cloning, vector construction, and PCR-based analyses.
• Experience or working knowledge of CRISPR/Cas genome-editing technologies.
• Basic bioinformatics skills, including sequence analysis and guide RNA design.
• Strong organizational, data management, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to conduct research independently with minimal supervision and work effectively in a collaborative environment.
• Live the Danforth Center values: Collaboration, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Integrity & Respect, Environmental Sustainability, and Stewardship

Qualifications:

• PhD in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Plant Biology, or a closely related field.
• Preferred experience with plant genome editing, genetic transformation, and molecular characterization of edited plants; phenotyping and trait evaluation in growth chamber, greenhouse, or field settings; and work with cereal crops or other monocot species.
• Scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Submission Instructions:

• Please include a 1–2-page cover letter describing academic background, research experience, research interest, and career goals
• CV
• Contact information for 3 professional references