The Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences is seeking a suitable candidate (m/f) for the position of

Postdoctoral Researcher /Junior Researcher – apple genomics and molecular genetics

Employment contract: fixed-term (1 year) with the possibility of extension or transition to a permanent position

Workload: full-time

Start date: upon completion of the selection process or as agreed

Workplace: Rozvojová 263, Prague 6

The Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences is a leading Czech research institution specializing in both fundamental and applied plant experimental biology.

The research team at the Apple Breeding Station focuses on modern apple breeding, genomics, and bioinformatics. We build on more than 60 years of research tradition and work with unique long‑term datasets encompassing genomics, phenotypes, and environmental data.

Our research has a direct impact on agricultural practice – selected cultivars are successfully used in the Czech Republic as well as abroad. We are currently seeking a highly motivated colleague – a postdoctoral researcher / junior researcher – to join our team and contribute to innovative, high‑quality research in a friendly and international environment within a renowned scientific institute.

What you can expect in this role

• Analysis of genomic and multi‑omics data (WGS, pangenomics, GWAS, SV)
• Development and application of genomic prediction models
• Integration of genomic, phenotypic, and environmental datasets
• Collaboration on the development of tools supporting breeding activities
• Publication of research results and contribution to the team’s scientific output
• Participation in grant‑funded research projects
• Opportunity to supervise students in the future

What you will be working on

• Analysis of genomic and multi‑omics datasets (WGS, pangenomics, GWAS, SV)
• Development and application of genomic prediction models
• Integration of genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data
• Collaboration on the development of tools supporting breeding activities
• Publication of research findings and contribution to the team’s scientific output
• Participation in grant‑funded research projects
• Future opportunity to supervise students

Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, or a related discipline), or near completion of a Ph.D. degree
• Experience with genomic data analysis
• Publication record or demonstrable publication potential
• Ability to conduct independent scientific work and strong analytical thinking
• Working proficiency in English (scientific publications, international collaboration)

Additional qualifications that will be an advantage

• Experience in a research or academic environment
• Knowledge of the Czech language

Your role

• Analysis of genomic and multi-omics data (WGS, pangenomics, GWAS, structural variants)
• Development and application of genomic prediction models
• Integration of genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data
• Contribution to decision-support tools for breeders
• Active publication of research results and development of the team’s publication profile
• Participation in grant-funded projects
• Gradual involvement in student supervision

Research focus

• Marker Assisted Selection (MAS)
• GWAS and complex trait analysis
• apple pangenome and structural variation
• S-allele determination
• AI-informed breeding
• Genomic prediction (G×E×M – genotype × environment × management)
• Disease resistance and fruit quality

What we can offer you

• A friendly and motivating work environment within a renowned research institute
• Salary commensurate with experience, including performance‑based bonuses and employer‑provided benefits
• Flexible working hours
• Five weeks of paid vacation, additional health days, meal allowance via EDENRED card, contributions to pension or life insurance, MultiSport card, and language courses
• Free Czech and English language courses
• Opportunities for further education and professional development through specialized training

How to apply

If you wish to apply, please send your CV to cerny@ueb.cas.cz and include the following text in the subject line: “Postdoc – Apple Genomics”.

Your application should include:

• Structured CV
• Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
• List of publications
• Contact details for 1–2 referees

Application deadline: 10 June 2026. We look forward to hearing from you!

Personal Data Protection

By submitting your application, you confirm that you agree to the processing of your personal data for the purposes of this recruitment procedure, in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Your data will be processed only to the extent necessary for evaluating your application, for the duration of the selection process, and subsequently for the period required by applicable legal regulations. Personal data will not be shared with third parties. Detailed information on the processing of personal data is available on the Institute’s website.

Among other accomplishments, our breeders have developed the globally successful Opal® variety, which has even made it aboard the International Space Station.