Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI)

QAAFI is a unique research institute in Australia as it is a jointly funded initiative of UQ and Agri-Science Queensland and Biosecurity Queensland, part of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF). QAAFI conducts research and development to benefit the food and fibre sector both nationally and internationally.

The Institute’s strengths are reflected in its four research centres – the Centre for Horticultural Science, the Centre for Crop Science, the Centre for Animal Science and the Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences. QAAFI brings together scientists from UQ and DAF to conduct high-end science that delivers higher impact outcomes for industry and the community.

Details of the research interests of the Institute may be accessed on the Institute’s web site at http://www.qaafi.uq.edu.au

The role

The successful applicant will work as part of a team on the ARC-funded Discovery Project “Cereal blueprints for a water-limited world”. This project is led by Professor Andrew Borrell in QAAFI at UQ St Lucia campus, with collaborators in UQ QAAFI, CSIRO and Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany. This position is directly supervised by Professors Godwin and Borrell.

You will explore the mechanisms by which PIN and VRN genes modify plasticity in canopy development and root architecture in sorghum and barley. You will also be involved in gene cloning, making of CRISPR constructs, and production and analysis of transgenic plants in PC2 glasshouse conditions, including gene expression studies and phenotyping of transgenic plants.

The person

The successful appointee will hold a PhD in plant molecular genetics, plant molecular biology, plant functional genomics, or equivalent. This will be partnered with research experience in plant molecular genetics and biotechnology and a strong record of scientific publication commensurate with experience. From this, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills in plant molecular genetics and biotechnology, as well as an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the production and analysis of transgenic plants.

Additionally, laboratory  experience with one or more of the following is highly desirable: gene cloning and construct manipulation, CRISPR, Real Time PCR, PCR, DNA sequence analysis, DNA marker analysis, plant genetic transformation, transcriptome analysis, analysis of transgenic plants.

Finally, you will be able to demonstrate: knowledge and skills in computer database, bioinformatics, and/or DNA sequence; the ability to contribute to the development and analysis of transgenic cereals; and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full-time, fixed term appointment for three years at Academic level A. The remuneration package will be in the range $67,542 - $90,982) p.a., plus employer superannuation contributions of up to 17% (total package will be in the range $79,024 - $106,448 p.a.).

Employees can take advantage of UQ’s Sport Facilities and Fitness Passport, salary sacrificing options, on-campus childcare, discounted private health insurance, cheap parking, and many other benefits.

This position is located at our picturesque St Lucia campus, renowned as one of Australia’s most attractive university campuses, and located just 7km from Brisbane’s city centre. Bounded by the Brisbane River on three sides, and with outstanding public transport connections, our 114-hectare site provides a perfect work environment – you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a vibrant campus with the tradition of an established university.

Here at UQ we value diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from those who bring diversity to the University. Our Diversity and Inclusion webpage contains further information and points of contact if you require additional support. Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to recruitment@uq.edu.au.

Position Description

 507212_Postdoctoral Research Fellow_PD.pdf

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Andrew Borrell via a.borrell@uq.edu.au

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below.

All applicants must supply the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Responses to the Selection Criteria

For information on completing the application process click here.