Teaching Assistantship in Environmental and Plant Biology, Ohio University, USA

A teaching assistantship is available in the Department of Environmental and Plant Biology, Ohio University, to study the genetic control of reproductive morphological diversity in Papaveraceae. The project investigates links between inflorescence architecture and flower symmetry in the morphologically diverse Papaveraceae. Poppies
and fumitories represent a new model lineage at the base of the eudicots. We have identified homologs of FLORICAULA, FRUITFULL, TERMINAL FLOWER1, and CYCLOIDEA genes in order to study their role in inflorescence determinacy, effloration sequence, and flower symmetry in a set of key species.

The project involves (i) cloning and phylogenetic characterization of additional genes from a broader sampling of species, (ii) a comparative morphological study of inflorescence and flower development, (iii) the characterization of gene expression patterns using RT-PCR and in situ hybridization, and (iv) phenotypic analyses of effects of modulated expression using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. As part of this
effort, VIGS will be adapted to fumitory species.

Candidates for this position should have a strong interest in plant development and evolution, and demonstrable experience in some of the methods mentioned. The ability to work independently and self- motivated is essential. The student will join a lab with vibrant research spanning from the organismal to the molecular level.

Please send a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, GRE scores, a statement of research experience that also explains what specifically attracts you to this particular project, and the names and contact information of at least two scientists available for reference. Please send your application and informal inquiries to Dr. Stefan Gleissberg (gleissbe-at-ohio.edu). Review of applications will start July 31, 2009, and continue until the position is filled. Possible start dates are September 2009 or January 2010.