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The laboratory of Dr. Matthew Fidelibus in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at the University of California, Davis, located at the University of California Kearney Agricultural Center in Parlier, Fresno County, California, wishes to employ a 100%-time Postdoctoral researcher who will contribute to research on the physiology of grape berry senescence and drying, and cluster lateral arm abscission in “natural” dry-on-vine (NDOV) raisin grapes.

The candidate will work closely with the PI and other collaborators and lab members to design and implement a variety of projects focused on gaining insight into the physiology of berry senescence and drying in an NDOV grape variety. NDOV is a highly desirable trait that facilitates mechanization of raisin production. However, the two NDOV varieties available to date both exhibit preharvest abscission of cluster lateral arms, which is undesirable because it reduces yield. The physiology of the NDOV trait is not understood, and neither is the preharvest lateral arm abscission trait.

The Postdoc will work closely with the PI and lab members, as well as collaborators at UC Davis and the USDA-ARS to lead studies to determine whether NDOV and preharvest cluster arm abscission traits are inextricably linked. They will determine the timing of lateral arm abscission zone differentiation in relation to the onset of berry senescence and drying. They could also lead studies on the effects that plant growth regulators and/or anti-transpirants may have on these traits, to better understand the physiology and possibly suggest practical beneficial cultural practices. Other possible research directions include cluster gas exchange, berry cuticle ultrastructure and physiology, and berry cell vitality.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
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