Research Associate​/Postdoc - Agronomy, Botany, Biochemistry, Plant Molecular and Cell Biology

The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Agronomy, Botany, Biochemistry, or Plant Molecular and Cell Biology. The role involves developing strategies for plant cell modification in bioenergy crops, focusing on lignin biosynthesis and cell wall engineering. A recent PhD is required, along with skills in RNA sequencing and plant anatomy. The position is full-time, based in Madison, WI, with a salary of $60K–$80K.
Research Associate (Postdoc) - Agronomy, Botany, Biochemistry, Plant Molecular and Cell Biology

Position Requirements: The Smith Lab in the Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop cell-specific strategies for plant cell modification in bioenergy crops. The Smith Lab research focuses on how to genetically engineer the plant cell wall in forage and bioenergy crops to improve plant digestibility, animal nutrition, and dairy sustainability A PhD in Botany, Biochemistry, Plant Molecular or Cell Biology, or related field obtained during the last year is required.

Candidates with experience in RNA sequencing, R and Rstudio, and a background in plant anatomy and cell wall biosynthesis are strongly encouraged to apply. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work in a collaborative environment.

Job Duties: This is a one-year postdoctoral position, with the possibility of an extension, under the supervision of Dr. Rebecca Smith in the Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences and the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center. One of the aims of the Center is to engineer bioenergy crops, such as sorghum and poplar, for improved cell wall digestibility and the production of bioproducts.

The postdoctoral researcher will study lignin biosynthesis in specific cell types in Sorghum bicolor and identify and characterize cell-type specific promotersto enable more efficient engineering of the cell wall. The study will involve single-cell RNA sequencing coupled with transcriptomic, metabolomic and proteomic analyses. The postdoctoral researcher will also be involved in interdisciplinary research throughout the Center. Responsibilities will include, but not limited to: performing independent research, assisting in mentoring junior lab members, and contributing to peer-reviewed journals.
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