Postdoctoral Position ‘The history of wheat – a haplotype approach’

The group of Professor Simon Krattinger at KAUST is seeking a highly motivated, creative, and talented postdoctoral fellow with a keen interest in genome biology, evolutionary biology, crop domestication history and bioinformatics. The ‘Cereal Genetics and Genomics’ group leverages technological innovations in genomics and molecular biology to address critical questions in genome biology, evolution, and disease resistance of wheat. Our mission is to perform impactful, curiosity-driven research that translates into crop improvement.

Project

Our group has recently advanced our understanding of bread wheat domestication by analyzing genomic data from wild wheat relatives (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06389-7, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07808-z). Building on this work, this project aims to further expand our understanding of wheat domestication history and evolution by generating and analyzing genomic data of neglected wheat species and wild wheat relatives. A key focus will be on how specific haplotype segments have shaped different wheat subspecies, such as bread and spelt wheat. Additionally, this research will contribute to global efforts toward constructing wheat super pan-genome.

Offer

We offer a highly international, dynamic, ambitious, and team-oriented scientific environment. KAUST provides generous funding for research, a cutting-edge genomics facility, and top-tier high-performance computing infrastructure, fostering an excellent environment for genomics-based research. The position is fully funded for 2-3 years with a competitive salary and benefits. For more information about living and working at KAUST, please refer to the University website: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/live

About KAUST

KAUST is an international graduate-level, merit-based research university dedicated to advancing scientific and technological education and research, acting as a catalyst for innovation, economic development and social prosperity in the region and the world. Our research strives to enhance the welfare of society with a special focus on four areas of global significance, food, water, energy and the environment. Based near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, KAUST has attracted top-notch faculty and staff from all over the world, with more than 80 nations represented on campus.

Preferred qualifications

We are seeking a motivated, self-driven scientist with a PhD in plant genomics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in computational biology, with demonstrated experience in using long-read DNA sequence data, genome assembly and comparative analyses of complex genomes. Successful applicants will possess excellent problem-solving and communication skills to thrive in a multidisciplinary and highly international team.

Contact

For questions relating to the position, kindly contact Prof. Simon Krattinger, simon.krattinger@kaust.edu.sa. Please submit your application through Interfolio.
Applications should include a full CV and publication list, and a short statement of research interests not exceeding one page. The position is available immediately. Please send your applications by June 30th 2025.