Postdoc (Illinois): Multiscale Bioenergy Crop Model Development

The Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in bioenergy crop modeling. The role involves working on metabolic and crop growth modeling, particularly using the BioCro framework. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field, strong modeling experience, and good communication skills. The position is full-time for one year with possible extensions.
The Matthews Research Group at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is recruiting a qualified Postdoctoral Researcher through the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) and the Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) to work on research projects within the Feedstock Production Theme of the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation. The postdoctoral position is full-time, 1-year duration, with possibility of annual extension, contingent upon performance and funding. Postdoctoral Research Associate positions may not exceed five years in duration.

Summary: A postdoctoral scientist with a strong background in plant modeling, particularly metabolic and crop growth and physiology modeling is sought to join a dynamic team of researchers. The successful candidate will collaborate with a vibrant research team working on modeling bioenergy crop metabolism and growth. The successful candidate will work with BioCro crop growth model framework to scale metabolic processes to crop growth, yield, and ecosystem impacts in annual and perennial bioenergy crops. As part of a large multi-institutional project, the successful candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary and highly collaborative work environment. The specific scientific goals of this position include 1) incorporating and using a process-based C allocation model to explore hypotheses around long-term C dynamics in perennial crops, and 2) using BioCro to explore in silico strategies for engineering oil production in bioenergy crops.

Qualifications: The successful postdoctoral candidate must have received a Ph.D. in a relevant field within the last 10 years, and prior experience in modeling plant systems. Experience in C++, R, or other programming languages are preferred, as is a proven publication record. Candidates should aspire to great oral and written communication skills. Candidates must be willing and able to contribute their expertise and skills in collaborative projects within the Center. Candidates will be considered if graduation with a Ph.D. is expected by the targeted starting date. Proof of receipt of PhD will be required. The appointment is renewed annually, contingent upon the performance. Salary range is $55,000 to $60,000 per year. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave. Medical benefits are based on eligibility qualifications, including visa status. Visa work sponsorship may qualify for this position.

Starting Date: Ideal starting window ranges from Jan 15th, 2025, to Dec 1st, 2025, and prefer to start as soon as possible. The position will remain open until filled.

Application Process: To ensure full consideration, qualified candidates must send a cover letter, CV, and contact information of three references via email to ponte1@illinois.edu. All requested information must be submitted to the above email in order for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Qualified applicants will be immediately reviewed upon receiving the application while the search may continue until the position is filled. Questions related to the positions should be addressed to mlmatth2@illinois.edu.

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