NAPB, National Association of Plant Breeders’ Post

Dive into an exciting area of plant breeding research with our upcoming webinar, "Breeding for Controlled Environment Agriculture," a must-attend event. Set for Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 11 AM Eastern (8 AM Pacific), this Zoom-based panel discussion will feature insights from leading experts Bert Meulenbroek, Robert Swinkels, and W. Zeb Rehrig, who bring a wealth of knowledge from their experiences in strawberry, cucumber, and sweet pepper breeding. The panel will explore the unique challenges and opportunities in breeding crops specifically for controlled environments like greenhouses, discussing everything from the importance of disease resistance and plant architecture to the role of resource optimization in breeding decisions. Discover how breeders are responding to unique production systems, integrating technology, and addressing consumer preferences and market demand to shape the future of our food. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the leaders in breeding for protected culture. Sign up for the webinar here: https://lnkd.in/gbSvi6JC  

  JOB POSTING   National Program Leader ARS Office of National Programs George Washington Carver Center Beltsville, MD   The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Office of National Program in Beltsville, Maryland invites applications for a permanent, full time position as National Program Leader (NPL) who will provide mission-critical leadership and direction to the ARS National Plant Germplasm System. Candidate will provide national leadership and liaison for program planning, coordinating, implementing, maintaining, and reporting on the Nation’s plant genetic resources and related genetics and genomics research programs. The successful candidate will have broad expertise in plant sciences and will provide exceptional judgment in formulating highly technical recommendations involving a wide variety of specialized and complex plant genetic resource management, genetic enhancement, and applied research projects. Candidate’s background in research may include plant genetic resource management, plant breeding, plant genetics, plant biology, plant physiology, plant pathology, molecular biology, or a closely related field. ARS’s National Plant Germplasm System is comprised of national and regional plant genetic resource management, genetic enhancement, and applied research programs related to plant genetic resource conservation and sustainable use of more than 200 major crops from more than 16,000 species. ARS Office of National Programs is located at ARS headquarters under the direction of the ARS Associate Administrator and Deputy Administrators for ARS National Programs that serve to bring coordination, communication and empowerment to approximately 660 research projects carried out by ARS scientists at field locations. National Programs focus on the relevance, impact, and quality of ARS research. The salary range is $163,964 to $191,900 per year and a comprehensive Federal benefits package is available. The application period is open from 28 March 2024 to 26 April 2024. For more details and to apply, please visit USAJOBS.gov, Announcement Number ARS-S24Y-12362635-MDK. If you have questions, please contact Dr. Jack Okamuro at jack.okamuro@usda.gov. For information about ARS ONP visit https://lnkd.in/gtAb93uE.    U.S. Citizenship is required. The USDA/ARS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider.    

The NAPB, National Association of Plant Breeders Education Committee is thrilled to announce the launch of the Breeding Bites Podcast—a brand new series where we dive into the stories behind the world of plant breeding. In each episode, we sit down with leading experts in the field to explore their unique journeys, insights, and groundbreaking research. Our inaugural season features insightful interviews with some of the most influential figures in plant breeding launching on March 15 with more episodes being added weekly. Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gTyQyzFv Youtube: https://lnkd.in/gsY6PGcH

Can’t think of anyone more deserving!

Postdoctoral Research Associate   Opportunity: Are you as excited about plant microbiomes as we are? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral research associate with experience in microbiome analyses, plant genetics, and biogeochemical cycling to join our team. Our research program focuses on understanding how the plant microbiome and its functions are an extended phenotype of the plant genome. Our exciting interdisciplinary research program is seeking to breed crops that can inhibit unsustainable nitrogen cycling processes and promote sustainable nutrient-provisioning strategies. We work with colleagues across the university with expertise in crop breeding and physiology, agronomy, and biogeochemistry. In addition, we are engaged with industry partners who are promoting microbiome solutions for sustainable crop production. Our work is funded by USDA-NIFA, Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council, and the US Department of Energy.    The successful candidate will participate in work to identify the genomic and biochemical basis underlying biological inhibition of nitrification and denitrification in maize and will carry out laboratory assays and field work to determine the impact of these phenotypes on ecosystem nitrogen cycling. This position is ideal for researchers familiar with microbiome analyses, plant breeding, and genetics (with an emphasis on either field). Knowledge of plant physiology, metabolism, soil fertility, and nitrogen cycling processes is desirable.    This work requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English as well as excellent writing skills, as demonstrated by a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.    Education: Required: A Ph.D. in crop science, environmental science, microbiology, or related field is required. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on their relevance to this position.   Qualifications:  Applicants must have earned a doctorate in crop science, microbiology, environmental science, or a related field within the past five years or have proof of completion by March 31, 2024. Evidence of scholarly activity/potential is required, specifically research and publications related to crop breeding or plant microbiomes.    Preferred Experience: - Research experience in the field related to microbial ecology, plant microbiomes, or crop science. - Expertise in plant genetics. - Expertise in bioinformatics workflows and statistical analyses typical for microbial ecology.   Salary and Appointment:  This 12-month appointment has a preferred start date of April 16, 2024 (or sooner) and is renewed on an annual basis. The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and relevant research.   To Apply: Please email your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Dr. Angela Kent at (akent@illinois.edu). Also see https://lnkd.in/gt48-aHF.   

Be sure to join us at our next NAPB Ed Committee Webinar exploring wheat breeding in Washington with Dr. Arron Carter, on February 22nd at 10 AM PST|1 PM EST. Register here--> https://lnkd.in/gzpUMn8Z

Heads up NAPB students!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER: https://lnkd.in/gzpUMn8Z

ASTA has posted for some summer internships on their website for those interested. https://lnkd.in/gDqUwNpH