We are looking for a Research Specialist, Crop Genetics in Onion and Watermelon who will initiate, plan, design, and execute molecular marker development and application projects. You will collect plant tissue samples and interact with Molecular Services for nucleic acid isolation and genotyping. This is a contract position with the possibility of conversion to a permanent position. Approximately 10% of the time will require travel to and work in field sites, occasionally for periods of up to two weeks.

Formula for Success: You Will…
• Oversee and coordinate the execution of experiments across different departments (phytopathology, breeding, pre-breeding, Biostatistics, Bioinformatics)
• Perform data analysis and interpretation of quantitative data
• Perform data analysis and interpretation for the development of new molecular markers and genetic linkage maps.
• Perform quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and Genome-wide association studies (GWAS)
• Facilitate marker-assisted selection (Breeding support)
• Supervise and manage interns
• Oversee shipping and/or transfer of information and sample material between domestic and international collaborators

Qualifications:
• MS in Genetics, Plant Breeding, Genetics or related fields or; BS in Genetics, Plant Breeding or Genetics or related fields with 5 years of relevant experience;
• Functional understanding of Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, and Statistics
• Ability to operate genetic linkage and QTL analysis software (Mapmaker, JoinMap, R, QTL Cartographer, MapQTL)
• Experience with molecular laboratory methods, techniques and marker platforms (Nucleic acid isolation, PCR/qPCR setup, PCR and array-based SNPs etc.)
• Experience in a laboratory setting and ability to perform routine laboratory tasks required (Liquid handling with single and multichannel pipettes, scales, centrifuge operation, etc.)
• Exposure to basic DNA analysis methods such as BLAST, homolog comparison, primer design, etc.
• Ability to work with large datasets
• Excellent written and oral communication skills