INTERNATIONAL RICE RESEARCH INSTITUTE
POST: Postdoctoral Fellow – Plant Pathology (PDF-2011-12-CC)
Reference number: PDF-2011-12-CC
Apply by: 15 February 2012
The successful candidate will work at IRRI HQ, and takes the lead with the IRS in the project on False Smut at IRRI and with public-private partners. IRRI has embarked on a 3-year project on false smut to understand the biology and epidemiology of the disease. The project places emphasis on the nature and role of the primary inoculum on disease development and the disease severity occurring in the field. As there is a general lack of understanding on the host resistance against false smut, this project requires development of efficient inoculation methods with tester strains for evaluation of resistance of rice germplasm to false smut. Once established, elite lines and a portion of a panel of 2,000 rice germplasm will be evaluated for resistance to the disease. Depending on the level and nature of resistance, donors will be identified for use in resistance breeding.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
In coordination with the team at IRRI, the candidate will help coordinate the research on studying the biology and epidemiology of the pathogen and the disease, and later in developing the methods in understanding the nature of resistance of elite rice lines and germplasm in partnership with private and public institutions collaborating on this project. Specific activities include:
• Study and determine the biology and epidemiology of U. virens in rice, with emphasis on the infection cycle, and the source and role of primary inoculum on disease development
• Establish an efficient inoculation method and screening procedure for evaluation of rice germplasm under confined environment and field condition
• Characterize the diversity of U. virens from tropical environment, and identify tester strains for evaluation of germplasm with resistance to false smut
• Evaluate the resistance of elite lines and a selection from a panel of 2,000 rice germplasm used for association mapping of biotic and abiotic traits, and identify possible donors in breeding for resistance to the disease
• Take the lead in developing annual work plans, meetings, and reporting
• Prepare manuscript for publication
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
• PhD in Plant Pathology, with specialization in mycology or soil-borne pathology preferred
• Strong background and experience in mycology, soilborne or seedborne diseases and handling and maintaining of fungal pathogens; knowledge of host plant resistance desirable
• Familiarity with biology and epidemiology of fungal diseases, especially grain and seedling diseases
• Experience in handling and maintenance of fungal pathogens in culture for short-term and long-term storage
• Familiarity with established screening methods and assessment for resistance evaluation
• Strong communication skills and a good publication record
• Experience in project reporting
Screening will start on 15 February 2012 and will continue until a suitable candidate has been found.
Please indicate the position in the e-mail subject line. IRRI regrets that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
IRRI provides a multicultural work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity, with a competitive compensation and benefit package. Women are encouraged to apply.
Join us to deliver rice science for a better world
Interested candidates should apply online . Should you encounter problems applying online please email at IRRIrecruitment@irri.org
FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER
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