Postdoc - Plant Breeding Towards Protein Quality in Legumes and Cereals

Postdoc - Plant Breeding Towards Protein Quality in Legumes and Cereals

SLU - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Alnarp, Sweden

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in Agricultural Sciences, Biology, Plant breeding, or a related field preferably with a strong focus on product quality traits and/or quantitative genetics.

About the position

Plant-based proteins from locally grown crops are gaining increasing importance due to shifting dietary patterns, the need to reduce dependence on animal-based and imported proteins, and the drive to enhance resilience and self-sufficiency in Swedish food system. To meet the demands of both consumers and the food industry, plant proteins must exhibit high nutritional and functional quality, this includes optimal protein composition, a favorable amino acid profile, and functional properties such as solubility, gelling, and foaming capacity for use in a range of food products. This project aims to enhance the protein quality of key Swedish crops including pea, faba bean, and oat by identifying and improving traits critical for food processing and product development.

The postdoctoral researcher will screen legumes (pea and faba bean) and cereals (oat) traits related to grain protein quality, aroma profiles, and protein structure-function relationship relevant to diverse food applications. The phenotypic data obtained will be aligned with genotypic data (e.g., Genotyping-by-Sequencing, etc.) to identify genomic regions and candidate genes associated with these traits. This will be followed by marker development (e.g., KASP markers) to support targeted breeding efforts to improve nutritional and functional quality. Initially, the postdoc will contribute to several ongoing projects, gaining experience and knowledge in the product quality, HPLC methods and protein functional properties analysis. Over time, the post-doc is expected to develop and submit independent research proposals contributing to the scientific direction of Plant Product Quality Improvement division. The postdoc will collaborate closely with researchers, plant breeders and molecular biologists involved in ongoing and future projects in related areas, contributing to product quality and advancement for improved nutritional value in future crop varieties. The postdoc will be expected to also supervise Masters/PhD students working within the defined project.

Your profile

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in genetic data analysis (e.g., GWAS, marker development, etc.) and a solid understanding of cereal and legume quality assessment, particularly in relation to protein composition and functional traits. Familiarity with multidisciplinary work on plant nutritional quality and experience collaborating with plant breeders, food scientists, or industry stakeholders is highly desirable. The position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Strong communication skills, including fluency in written and spoken English, are essential.

As postdoctoral appointments are intended for early-career researchers, preference will be given to candidates who obtained their doctoral degree within the past three years. Experience in teaching, supervising BSc or MSc students, and project coordination will be considered additional merits.