The Peach Team in the Department of Plant and Environmental Science, at Clemson University, seeks to employ a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to conduct research to unravel the genetic basis of Armillaria Root Rot (ARR) resistance/tolerance/susceptibility in Prunus species.  This position will be dynamically integrated among an interdisciplinary research team as part of newly funded USDA-Specialty Crop Research Initiative program entitled “Solutions to the Armillaria root rot threat affecting the U.S. stone fruit industry”. The long-term goal of the project is to improve the profitability and sustainability of the U.S. stone fruit and nut industries through the development of Armillaria Root Rot - resistant and horticulturally acceptable rootstocks. The outcomes of this proposal will provide the 'building blocks' needed to enable and accelerate on-going Prunus breeding programs, as well as support the testing of cultural practices as short-term solutions to increase tree longevity on replant sites. A combination of novel horticultural approaches with immediate implementation will be combined with genomics, genetic diversity, metabolomics and functional genomics approaches to discover natural (local and exotic) sources of ARR resistance and translate it directly into DNA and biochemical diagnostic tools that will lead to novel rootstocks for long-term sustainability of the peach, cherry, and almond industries. This position is located at the Clemson University main campus and will focus on identifying, characterizing, and utilizing sources of durable genetic resistance to Armillaria/Desarmillaria to enable breeding solutions for ARR resistance/tolerance; monitoring effects of short- and long-term system approaches to manage ARR; and participate in outreach activities to facilitate the adoption of results.

The application period is open until suitable candidate is found. Review and selection  of applicants will start after October 16^th. The announcement can be viewed using the following link: https://apply.interfolio.com/78924

We seek applicants who have a strong background in horticulture, plant molecular genetics, genomics, and functional genomics. Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability and willingness to work in both field and in the molecular lab in a collaborative research environment are essential. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a resume that includes educational background, publications, and work experience (Ph.D. thesis and beyond), as well as a brief statement of research interests and goals. Please also provide contact information for at least three references. This position requires a doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in the field of horticulture, plant sciences, genetics, plant breeding or related disciplines. This is a fixed-term appointment funded on yearly basis until the end of the project (August 2024) from date of hire. More information about Clemson University and resources for Postdoctoral scholars can be found in the following website: https://www.clemson.edu/research/post-docs/.

Ksenija

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Ksenija Gasic, Ph.D. CLEMSON UNIVERSITY

Professor of Horticulture

Peach Breeding and Genetics
Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences

Office: 306A Biosystems Research Complex |105 Collings St., Clemson, SC 29634
Office Phone: 864.656.3664 | Cell 864.723.2009