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Fully Funded Postdoctoral Position in Genome Editing for Climate-Resilient Potatoes – Agroscope, Switzerland

Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture and cutting-edge plant biotechnology? A fully funded postdoctoral opportunity is now available at Agroscope, Switzerland’s leading agricultural research center. This 3-year post-doc position is part of the prestigious CRISPS project (“Editing Sustainable and Innovative Potatoes for Switzerland”), under the Swiss National Research Program 84 (NRP 84) focused on plant breeding innovation.

🌍 Job Location

  • Current Location: Agroscope, Zürich
  • Planned Relocation: Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
  • Start Date: 01 September 2025 or as agreed
  • Contract Duration: Temporary (until 31 August 2028)
  • Reference Code: JRQ$540-15362

🔬 Project Overview: Advancing Transgene-Free Genome Editing in Potatoes

This research project aims to develop climate-resilient potato varieties that are drought-tolerant and disease-resistant through transgene-free genome editing technologies. The project integrates advanced molecular biology, genome sequencing, and phenotypic analysis in both greenhouse and field environments.

Collaborate with world-renowned institutions including:

  • Wageningen University, Netherlands
  • Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Sweden

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of sustainable crop development in Europe.


🧬 Key Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:

  • Design and implement targeted genome editing in potatoes
  • Monitor editing events using real-time PCR and sequencing techniques
  • Perform heat stress and disease resistance assays in greenhouses and field trials
  • Conduct phenotypic assessments of GM potato field trials
  • Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to analyze genomic and epigenomic effects
  • Attend and present at international research consortium meetings

👩‍🔬 Candidate Profile: Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates will have:

  • A PhD in crop science, molecular breeding, plant biotechnology, or related field
  • Hands-on experience in molecular biology, preferably with long-read sequencing
  • A solid publication record in peer-reviewed international journals
  • A collaborative mindset with the ability to work across diverse research teams
  • Bonus: Experience in genomic analysis and bioinformatics
  • Language Proficiency: English (mandatory) and at least one official Swiss language (preferred)

🌱 Why This Postdoc Matters: Sustainability & Innovation

Join a cutting-edge initiative shaping the future of climate-smart agriculture. This role offers the opportunity to:

  • Contribute to transgene-free genome editing innovations
  • Accelerate the breeding of climate-resilient crops
  • Apply bioinformatics to monitor genome-wide editing impacts
  • Help reduce the use of agrochemicals in European potato farming

🧪 About Agroscope – Excellence in Agricultural Research

Agroscope is the Swiss Federal Centre of Excellence for Agricultural Research, operating under the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). Agroscope focuses on:

  • Food security
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Modern agricultural innovation

With a strong network of national and international collaborations, Agroscope supports science-driven solutions for sustainable food systems.


📍 Project Location Details

  • Current Site: Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zürich, Switzerland
  • Future Site: 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland (relocation planned mid-project)
  • Principal Investigator: Dr. Etienne Bucher, Group Leader

📩 How to Apply

Ready to make an impact in agricultural genomics?
Apply now through the official Agroscope application portal. Be sure to mention the Reference Code JRQ$540-15362 in your application.

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