Postdoctoral Associate - Duguma Lab

DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE CENTER • Olivette, MO

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join the Optimum Teff project, which focuses on improving teff (Eragrostis tef) productivity through genome editing and trait-stacking approaches. The project aims to develop improved teff varieties with reduced lodging and grain shattering and enhanced yield potential. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, the project is conducted in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR).

The successful candidate will work in the Duguma Lab and collaborate with national and international project partners. Research will involve developing gene constructs, 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 contributing to multidisciplinary teams.

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Plant Biology, or a closely related field.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with plant genome editing, genetic transformation, and molecular characterization of edited plants.
• Experience with phenotyping and trait evaluation in growth chamber, greenhouse, or field settings.
• Experience working with cereal crops or other monocot species.
• Scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree