Post-Doctoral Fellow Wheat Rust Pathology, molecular genetics and breeding

CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships.  

For more information, visit cimmyt.org

CIMMYT is seeking a dynamic, self-motivated, and service-oriented professional for the position of Post-Doctoral Fellow - Wheat Rust Pathology, molecular genetics and breeding. to work in our Global Wheat Program.

This position is for a duration of two years, with the possibility of extension for an additional year.

The positions will be based at CIMMYT’s headquarters in Texcoco, near Mexico City.

Specific duties:

• Coordinate and oversee rust screening and phenotyping activities in field and greenhouse nurseries across CIMMYT research stations in Mexico.
• Analyze genetic and phenotypic datasets to elucidate the genetic architecture of complex rust resistance traits, including QTL mapping, GWAS, and genomic prediction.
• Collaborate with CIMMYT colleagues in Kenya, supporting data management and contributing to continental rust surveillance and characterization efforts.
• Conduct race-typing and contribute to annual rust surveillance and reporting.
• Support bread wheat, durum, and pre-breeding programs by providing technical guidance on rust resistance screening and disease management.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results in collaborative networks and scientific meetings.
• Strengthen national and international partnerships and contribute to capacity building.
• Travel to CIMMYT Mexico field sites and occasional international travel to Kenya and partner institutions as required.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

Competences:

• Goal orientation and scientific rigor
• Proactive problem-solving and initiative
• Multicultural awareness and sensitivity
• Strong teamwork and communication skills

Requirements

Requirements:

• PhD in plant breeding, quantitative genetics, plant pathology, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in molecular genetics, statistical analysis, and handling genotype–phenotype datasets (e.g., GWAS, QTL mapping, mixed models).
• Proficiency in analytical software such as R, TASSEL, R/qtl, GAPIT, or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience with rust phenotyping in field and greenhouse environments.
• Strong publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (Spanish is an advantage).
• Proven ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary, multicultural teams.

Benefits

CIMMYT offers an internationally competitive compensation package, including housing allowance, comprehensive health and life insurance, children’s education support, paid leave, relocation support, annual airfare, and contributions to retirement plans.