Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) in Plant Genetic Resources Leibniz-Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research in Germany

Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) in Plant Genetic Resources at the Leibniz-Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Germany.

This postdoctoral position is embedded in the collaborative BMFTR-funded project MZF: Twin-3 and sits in the Resources Genetics and Reproduction group, led by Dr. Anna Backhaus. The project focuses on safeguarding, regenerating, and exploring plant genetic diversity for the benefit of society and nature, with a particular research emphasis on genebank phenomics and genomics for future barley conservation and use.

The role explores how digital twin resources can support active genebank management. The successful candidate will investigate the potential of seed optical and multispectral imaging, seed phenomics, and big data analysis in a genebank context. The broader goal is to improve the selection and management of seeds based on viability, health, and genotype, and to combine genomic and phenomic data for more precise collection management and improved user access to the collection.

Key tasks include managing field trials and associated phenotypic data collection, leading the development of novel high-throughput phenotyping approaches for seeds, independently analyzing large datasets from diverse sources, generating biological insights in barley genetics, and developing and publishing original research ideas.

The ideal applicant holds a PhD or equivalent in a relevant area such as plant biology, genomics, phenomics, agricultural sciences, biology, or botany. The post calls for a strong theoretical background in phenomics and/or genomics, experience in data analysis ideally including image analysis, and an affinity for command-line-based bioinformatic analysis. Candidates should be motivated, well organized, comfortable working in a diverse team, and have excellent English communication skills.

The position is full-time (40 hours per week), starts in January 2027, and is limited to 2 years under German fixed-term regulations. The salary is stated as up to 100% E13 TV-L. IPK highlights a collegial environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to a globally unique genebank collection.

Applications must be submitted online as a single PDF including a motivation letter, CV, and certificates. The application deadline is 1 October 2026. Applicants should reference number 34/08/26 in correspondence. If needed, contact Dr. Anna Backhaus for project-related questions or Kerstin Schweigert at [email protected] for application-related inquiries. Foreign qualifications may require an equivalence statement in Germany.