Funded Ph.D. Position in Crop Science
A Ph.D. position funded through the Teagasc Walsh fellowship programme is available for up to four years in the laboratories of Dr. Ewen Mullins (Teagasc) and Dr. Emmanuelle Graciet (National University of Ireland Maynooth). Both institutions offer excellent research conditions with state-of-the-art infrastructure in a highly dynamic and collegial environment that will ensure the successful candidate receives a broad training experience across multiple disciplines.
Barley is the largest cereal crop in Ireland and is an essential component of the malting industry. However, the fungal disease Rhynchosporium communeis a constant constraint on production that challenges economic returns on the crop. In response, this Ph.D. project is focused on (i) increasing our understanding of the genetics of the barley – R. commune interaction while also (ii) identifying genes of interest for genome editing approaches.For this, the Ph.D. project will combine molecular genetics, genomics and bioinformaticsapproaches with the ultimate goal of contributing towards the development of novel barley lines with improved performance against R. commune.
To achieve this we are looking for a highly motivated individual with a strong background, interest in crop biology and/or molecular plant sciences and/or plant pathology and/or bioinformatics, who is able to work independently, but yet enjoys working in a team. The ideal applicant should have previous experience with key techniques of molecular biology and/or plant pathology and/or plant or crop biology and/or bioinformatics. He/she must hold a B.Sc.(Hons) plusM.Sc. or equivalent in above listed disciplines.
The start date for this position is October 1, 2017 and a tax free living allowance of ~€16,000 per year is provided for EU citizens. For non-EU citizens the related academic fee structure may reduce the allowance significantly.
To apply, please send (i) a CV detailing relevant,practical research experience, course modules and grades and (ii) a supporting letter (400 words) explaining how your experiences to date would make you suitable for the position.
Email completed applications to and by 5pm May 31st. It is intended that interviews will be conducted in June 2017.