Dear colleagues,

A 2-years postdoctoral position is available at INRA (http://www.international.inra.fr/) in Nancy, France, starting from March 2013. The research proposal is focused on the study of the adaptation of the poplar rust fungus (Melampsora larici-populina) to the poplar varietal landscape. Our goal is to integrate approaches of population genetics, landscape epidemiology and evolution of life history traits of the poplar rust fungus in order to: (i) identify genetic signatures of adaptation of the pathogen’s populations to the poplar varietal landscape; and (ii) assess the ability of the pathogen to adapt to quantitative resistances (see details in the attached file).

Candidates should have a good background in ecology, evolutionary biology, and population genetics. Knowledge of host – parasite interactions, especially plant pathology, is not mandatory but would be appreciated.

The postdoctoral position will be funded by the INRA Metaprogramme SMaCH (Sustainable Management of Crop Health) and AgreenSkills. The selected candidate(s) and the hosting lab will build a detailed research project, which will subsequently be evaluated by AgreenSkills. The AgreenSkills eligibility requirements and selection procedure are detailed at http://www.agreenskills.eu/ Applicants should send a letter of interest and a CV, including the names and contact details of two or three referees, to Pascal Frey (frey@nancy.inra.fr) before November 1^st 2012 (deadline for application at AgreenSkills November 15^th 2012).

If you know of anyone who might be a good fit for this position please pass on this information to him or her. Thank you. Apologies for cross postings.

Best regards,
Pascal