molecular biologist

[Susan Lawrence]

ANNOUNCEMENT NO: RA-99-45H

Position: Research Molecular Biologist

Location: USDA/ARS, Beltsville, MD


DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
This position is required to support research on the development of a
baculovirus viral attachment protein (VAP) as a vector of entomopathogenic
toxins. The incumbent will be responsible for producing recombinant VAPs and
expressing them in plant systems. The VAPs are theorized to bind to specific
midgut receptors when ingested by the insect. The objective of the research
is to determine (1) if the VAP can bind to midgut cells by itself or if
other factors are required; (2) to identify what portion of the VAP is
required for binding. For high level expression in plants, manipulation of
the VAP DNA sequence may be required. Since the TMV expression system allows
rapid expression of genes, different recombinant DNAs can be quickly tested.
If the VAP is able to target GFP or a cry protein to the insect midgut, then
this VAP vector may be combined with other toxin proteins for the production
of novel biological insecticides.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related field. Knowledge of and experience
with molecular biology especially construction of gene vectors. Knowledge of
invertebrate microbial pathogens and insect pests of economic importance.


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Francine Benko
USDA/ARS
5601 Sunnyside Ave
Beltsville, MD 20705-5104
301-504-1335

SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO:
Dr. Edward M. Dougherty
Insect Biocontrol Laboratory
Bldg. 011A, Room 214
BARC-West
Beltsville, MD 20705
301-504-5689
Fax: 301-504-5104


Download application from the following website.

http://www.ars.usda.gov/afm/hrd/hrdhomepage/vacancy/postdoc.html