Fondazione Edmund Mach is looking for a Third-Level Researcher (R3) to join its Research and Innovation Centre, Fruit Crop Genetics and Breeding Unit. The position focuses on genomics and the genetic improvement of fruit trees as part of the Horizon Europe–funded “FRUITDIV” project.
What to expect
At the heart of the Alps, inside a research campus surrounded by vineyards and woodlands, you will join the Fruit Crop Genetics and Breeding Unit at Fondazione Edmund Mach in San Michele all’Adige, a few kilometres north of Trento. Here, long-standing agricultural tradition meets modern genomics: you’ll work on fruit-tree genetics within an institute that has been advancing research and education for over a century. In this role, you will contribute to the Horizon Europe FRUITDIV project, applying genomic approaches to support the development of fruit-tree varieties that are resilient, productive, and ready for future challenges. You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary environment with access to advanced facilities, a collaborative research culture, and opportunities for scientific growth — all in a setting where high-level science and nature live side by side.
Position
In this role, you will design and carry out genomic studies on fruit trees, working to identify the genetic determinants of key agronomic traits. Your activities will include high-throughput genotyping, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and genomic prediction, with the aim of developing strategies that can support breeding programs and pre-breeding pipelines. You will collaborate closely with geneticists and breeders, contribute to scientific publications, and present your work at international conferences. The results of your research will feed directly into ongoing efforts to improve fruit-tree varieties through genomics-driven approaches.
Requirements
Candidates should have:
- A PhD in Plant Biology, Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Crop Science, Computational Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Proficiency in English for both written and spoken communication.
- Strong analytical skills, ideally with experience in genomics, bioinformatics, and quantitative genetics.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team, with good communication and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications
The following qualifications are not mandatory but will strengthen your application and help you excel in this role:
- Experience in fruit tree genetics or other perennial crops.
- Knowledge of genome-wide association studies, genomic prediction, and breeding models.
- Familiarity with high-throughput sequencing technologies.
- Experience in scientific dissemination (publications and conferences).
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email to curricula@fmach.it (standard email only, not PEC) using the subject line 402_CRI_FDV – Temporary R3 fruit trees. The deadline is November 26, 2025, and the date and time recorded by FEM’s email system will be considered binding.
Your application must include the following documents:
- Application Form (Annex A)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of a valid identity document
Eligibility and qualifications will be evaluated only on what is declared in Annex A. If you need assistance due to a disability, support is available at +39 0461 615542. The recruitment procedure will be completed no later than May 26, 2026. For all other conditions, the official FEM recruitment procedure applies.
curricula@fmach.it
+39 0461 615542
