The Farcuh Lab in the Department of Plant Sciences and Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland, College Park is inviting applications for an enthusiastic and motivated PhD student to start August 2020. The selected candidate will work on the characterization and identification of key molecular, biochemical and metabolic mechanisms underlying fruit quality improvement, using multidisciplinary approaches, throughout fruit development, harvest and ripening in postharvest storage. The research objective is to develop innovative strategies that will lead to improved fruit handling, decreased fruit loss/waste and enhanced fruit quality and consumer acceptance. The prospective candidate should be highly motivated to perform laboratory and field-based research at an advanced and interdisciplinary level.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • M.S. in Plant Science, Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry or a closely related discipline.
  • Experience in standard molecular biology and biochemical techniques and background in fruit crops are essential.
  • Strong skills in statistical data analysis are required.
  • Experience with analytical chemistry and/or metabolomics is desired.
  • Excellent communication skills are essential.
  • The candidate will be organized, creative, and excited about working independently as well as in a collaborative group environment.

The annual stipend will be competitive and includes tuition and fringe benefits. For full consideration apply with requisite application fees and documents before January 10, 2020:https://psla.umd.edu/academic-programs/plant-biology-biotechnology-programs/plant-biology-and-biotechnology-graduate.

The Department of Plant Sciences is located in suburban Maryland, in the Washington D.C. area, offering broad opportunities of collaborations with many of the research institutions in the region. The location gives unique access to cultural and recreational activities available both in the city and the surrounding region. The University of Maryland, College Park is considered a “Public Ivy-League”, ranked among the 50 top universities in the world, and offers an excellent educational, cultural, and recreational environment to work, study, and live.

If you have questions or require more information, please contact Dr. Macarena Farcuh at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..