Postdoctoral Position: Microarray Bioinformaticist

A Postdoctoral Position is available in the Microarray Lab of the Faculty of Natural- and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.

Required Qualifications: Ph.D in Bioinformatics/Statistical Genetics or related field.

Preferred: Experience with Microarray data analysis, QTL mapping and statistical principles. Good communication skills.

DESCRIPTION

Description: A collaborative eQTL/Genetical Genomics research project is underway to identify the molecular basis of quantitative disease resistance in maize (corn) using a maize RIL population that is being rigorously phenotyped, genotyped and subjected to whole genome Microarray analysis. A position is available for a Bioinformaticist/Statistical Geneticist to participate in this project, and contribute to the improvement of maize, a staple diet for the people of Africa. The current research team at the University of Pretoria (principal investigator, postdoctoral fellow, research assistant, postgraduate student) is working in collaboration with project partners at a maize breeding institute, a microarray service company and a commercial seed company.

FACILITY INFORMATION

The Microarray lab is equipped with a state-of-the-art DNA Microarrayer and Scanner, operating through the African Centre for Gene Technologies (ACGT) Microarray Facility (http://fabinet.up.ac.za/microarray/ ). The facility employs a suite of commercial and public domain software for Microarray data analysis and visualisation, such as GenePix, TM4 (Midas, MEV), R-Bioconductor and the BioArray Software Environment (BASE) database.

The incumbent will work within the University of Pretoria Bioinformatics facility, which has been custom built in the new Biotechnology building (http://www.bi.up.ac.za). The position offers excellent opportunities for growth and the remuneration is highly competitive. Applicants with suitable MSc experience and qualifications will also be considered.

LOCALE

Pretoria is an attractive destination for those interested in experiencing life in South Africa. It is the Capital City, is host to most Embassies and is well known for the seasonal displays of Jacaranda Trees. Pretoria is on the doorstep of the bushveld game parks, home of the Big Five (http://www.southafrica.net). The weather is good all year round and most days are sunny and warm.

The position is for a fixed term two year period and can be filled immediately. First deadline for applications August 30, 2007, however the post will remain open until a suitable candidate can be found. Please apply by forwarding a complete CV with contact details of three referees (including phone numbers and email addresses) to Prof. Dave Berger, Room 6-26, Agricultural Sciences Building, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0002 (Fax: +27-12–420-3947; Email: dave.berger[at]up.ac.za).

HOW TO APPLY

Contact Prof. Dave Berger Telephone +27-12-420-4634. http://www.fabinet.up.ac.za/mppi/index