ABOUT CRAG:

CRAG is an independent research institution engaged in leading-edge basic and applied plant and farm animal sciences. CRAG is established as a Consortium of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), and University of Barcelona (UB). The Center is located at the UAB Campus, and currently hosts 200 members from across the world.

Research Programs at CRAG (from basic science to applied research using plant experimental model systems, crops and farm animals) make extensive use of genomic technologies and large sets of genetic and genomic data (https://www.cragenomica.es/sites/default/files/2022-07/crag-summary-2020-2021_0.pdf ).

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY – SORGHUM RESILIENCE PROJECT

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

We are looking for a talented and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team at CRAG and contribute to an ambitious project focused on understanding and enhancing climate resilience in Sorghum bicolor, a strategic crop for sustainable agriculture.

The successful candidate will work within the research group “Brassinosteroid Signaling in Plant Development and Adaptation to Climate Change,” contributing to cutting-edge research in plant hormone signaling, molecular adaptation mechanisms, and biotechnological strategies to improve crop performance under drought and other stress conditions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct molecular studies of brassinosteroid signaling pathways, with a particular focus on Sorghum bicolor.
• Perform functional analysis of brassinosteroid receptors and related components using genetic and biochemical approaches.
• Apply advanced molecular tools including CRISPR-Cas9 for gene editing and plant transformation techniques.
• Design and execute experiments aimed at understanding stress resilience pathways in sorghum.
• Coordinate and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the lab.
• Collaborate closely with other research partners and platforms as part of a broader biotechnology initiative.

REQUIREMENTS

Educational Background:

• PhD in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology, or related disciplines.
• MSc in a relevant area (e.g. Plant Sciences, Genetics, Bioengineering) is a plus.

Skills & Competencies:

• Solid knowledge of plant hormone biology, signaling pathways, and molecular genetics.
• Proven experience with CRISPR-Cas9, gene cloning, plant transformation, and microscopy.
• Familiarity with plant-pathogen interactions and functional genomics.
• Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Excellent command of English (spoken and written).

Experience:

• Demonstrated track record in molecular plant biology and research publications.
• Previous experience working in collaborative research environments.

Experience with sorghum or other cereal crops is highly desirable, though not mandatory.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Contract Duration: 1 year

Hours/week: 37,5 h/week

We Offer dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment.

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at CRAG.
• Opportunities for career development and active involvement in international collaborations.
• A competitive salary and flexible work conditions in Barcelona, one of Europe’s most vibrant science hubs.

SUBMITTING APPLICATIONS:

Please submit all the application through CRAG website: https://recruitment.cragenomica.es/

CRAG is committed to the principles of the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers of the European Commission. All candidates will be considered qualified for the job without restrictions of gender, race, nationality or disability.

Integration policy: reserve the place in a first turn for disabled staff.

Interested candidates must submit the following documents:

- Curriculum vitae

- PhD Certificate or official notification of the award

- A motivation letter, including a brief summary of work experience and a statement of research interests and career goals (2 pages maximum), including references

Deadline: 22/04/2025

Start date: 23/04/2025