PhD in Plant Virology

[GD Foster, School Biological Sciences]

PhD in Plant Virology



School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol

PhD in Plant Virology
Investigating genes involved in symptom induction and the use of cross 
protection for the control of Pepino mosaic virus in tomato

University of Bristol Supervisor: Professor Gary Foster
CSL supervisors: Dr Neil Boonham & Dr Nicola Spence


To investigate the genetic basis of the symptom differences observed 
between Peruvian and European isolates of Pepino mosaic virus and to 
investigate the potential use and mechanism of action of mild strain 
inoculation (cross protection) to control the damaging effects of infection 
by Pepino mosaic virus. This will be achieved using full length sequences 
for both viruses, which will help generate infectious clones to be used in 
gene exchange experiments and point mutation analysis to further 
investigate the determinants of symptom production. This will help develop 
cross protection experiments which will help to evaluate this as a strategy 
for control of this damaging virus.

This studentship is ideal for any undergraduates with an interest in 
virology, molecular biology and/or plant pathology. The studentship will 
offer training in most modern molecular techniques, including PCR, 
sequencing, use of microarrays, construction of infectious clones to 
identify the genes involved in the interaction between Pepino mosaic virus 
and the its host.

The Central Science Laboratory (CSL) is an Executive Agency of the 
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The project, 
funded by CSL, includes consumables, tuition fees as well as maintenance of 
£11,000 per annum. The studentship, available from 1 October 2004, will be 
undertaken jointly between The University of Bristol and the Central 
Science Laboratory in York.

Applicants should have or expect to obtain a good degree in 
biology/biochemistry, molecular biology. Please send your CV to Prof. Gary 
Foster in the first instance, along with the names/addresses/e.mails of two 
referees. Deadline for applications is 25th March 2004. The position is 
open to UK and EEC residents only.


Prof Gary Foster, School of Biological Sciences,
University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UG, United Kingdom.	
E.mail : Gary.Foster at bristol.ac.uk


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GD Foster, School Biological Sciences
Gary.Foster at bristol.ac.uk
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