Postdoctoral Fellow - Low Glycemic Index (GI)

This post-doctoral research position will focus on breeding low glycemic index (GI) rice by utilizing pre-breeding lines disseminated across diverse genetic backgrounds. The successful candidate will contribute to the promotion and distribution of ultra-low and low GI rice varieties in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh. A key responsibility includes assisting in the establishment of a mini-factory in Odisha, and working with food product developers and stakeholders to launch rice-based products with low GI and other nutritional benefits. Additionally, the role involves analyzing large-scale genetic and metabolomic datasets to identify genes linked to nutritional and quality traits. Strong bioinformatics expertise is necessary to map genetic regions associated with these traits. The position also requires collaboration with internal project partners, including breeders, crop modelers, grain quality specialists, and GIS experts, to ensure seamless research activities and data exchange. Furthermore, the post-doc will systematically compile, analyze, and interpret data, preparing reports for presentations at international conferences and workshops. 

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and is open for international applications.

• Contribute to the promotion and distribution of ultra-low and low GI rice varieties in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh
• Contribute to the establishment of the mini-factory in Odisha state to develop low GI and other nutritional traits that will contribute to the people of Odisha.
• Perform bioinformatic analysis of large dataset including metabolomics and genomics of large diversity of rice collection and assess the genes responsible for different traits
• Contribute to writing research and review papers including rice grain quality and nutrition.
• Contribute to gene validation and phenotyping of the constructs. 
• Align with internal project partners and collaborators (e.g. breeders, crop modelers, grain quality specialists, GIS specialists etc.) to ensure a smooth flow of research activities and efficient exchange of data and information
• Collaborate with different stakeholders in breeding low glycemic index (GI) rice using diverse pre-breeding
  lines, aiming to enhance the nutritional quality of rice varieties in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh.
• Provide information and guidance in establishing a mini-factory in Odisha to develop and promote rice-based products with low GI and other health benefits, collaborating with food product developers and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with project partners, including breeders and crop modelers, while systematically compiling and interpreting research data for presentations at international conferences and workshops. 
• A comprehensive strategy for promoting and distributing ultra-low and low glycemic index rice varieties in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh.
• A detailed report outlining the establishment process of the mini-factory in Odisha, including partnerships with food product developers and the launch of rice-based products with nutritional benefits.
• A compilation of analyses from large-scale genetic and metabolomic datasets, identifying key genes linked to nutritional and quality traits in diverse rice collections.
• Manuscripts for research and review papers on rice grain quality and nutrition, along with presentation materials for international conferences and workshops. 
• Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by supervisor from time to time 

• Ph.D. in Molecular Plant Physiology with skillsets in metabolism, genetics, product development, and nutrition 

Mandatory

• The candidate should possess research experience in rice metabolism, genetics, and product development. Additionally, strong communication skills with stakeholders and a solid understanding of breeding practices are essential. 

Preferred

• The candidate must demonstrate the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary international team, possess knowledge of rice breeding and molecular cloning, and be capable of developing novel product ideas. 

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story!

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.