Postdoctoral Fellow in Soybean Gene Transformation | Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies

Postdoctoral Fellow in Soybean Gene Transformation

 

Department / Academic Unit: Plant Agricuture, Ontario Agriculture College 

Description of the Area/Topic of Research 

The Ridgetown Soybean Breeding Program in the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph, in collaboration with Prefer Industries Ltd., is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr. Milad Eskandari’s team in the field of soybean breeding and gene transformation. This partnership supports innovative research projects aimed at enhancing soybean traits through advanced gene transformation techniques. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge initiatives with the potential to significantly impact soybean productivity and sustainability.
The position will be based at the University of Guelph’s main campus, located in the Crop Science Building, and will involve close collaboration within a vibrant academic community. 

General Outline of Duties 

  • Design and execute experiments related to Soybean gene transformation, including but not limited to Agrobacterium-mediated transformation.
  • Develop and optimize protocols for tissue culture, transformation, and regeneration of soybean plants.
  • Conduct molecular analyses to validate gene integration, expression, and inheritance in transformed plants.
  • Perform phenotypic evaluations of transgenic plants to assess trait improvement.
  • Maintain detailed records of experimental procedures and data analysis.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including - but not limited to - other lab members, molecular biologists, geneticists, and agronomists, while overseeing the management of a molecular laboratory.

Teaching Requirement: There is no teaching requirement or guaranteed teaching involvement with this position. 

Required Qualifications 

  • Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, or a related field (Candidates must have obtained their PhD within the last 5 years).
  • Demonstrated experience in plant biology and plant transformation techniques, preferably in Soybean.
  • Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, and sequencing.
  • Strong background in tissue culture and plant regeneration protocols.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven ability to manage time-sensitive projects, meet deadlines, and work efficiently in a fast-paced research environment.
  • Familiarity with biosafety and regulatory requirements for transgenic crops (e.g., CFIA, USDA, FDA guidelines) to ensure the project aligns with legal and ethical standards for commercialization.

Start Date & Duration of Appointment: November 01, 2025 to October 30, 2027 

Anticipated Hours/Days of Work (at time of posting): 8 Hours/5 Days 

Salary Range (Minimum): $50,000

Salary Range (Maximum): $55,000

Salary Information: Salary range is $50,000 CAD to $55,000 CAD plus benefits (19.50% benefit rate).

The University of Guelph is dedicated to fostering an inclusive research environment and promoting employment equity. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, persons with disabilities, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of racialized communities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Our commitment to diversity strengthens our academic community and supports excellence in research and scholarship.

Application Requirements

Documents

  • Cover Letter
  • CV
  • Summary of Research Experience
  • Other 

Special Instructions 

In addition to the above application requirements, please submit the names and contact information of two references. 

Contact Information

Supervisor: Dr. Milad Eskandari, Associate Professor 
meskanda@uoguelph.ca

Posting Date: Thu, 10/09/2025

Closing Date: Mon, 11/17/2025