POSTDOCTORAL OPPORTUNITIES IN PLANT GENOME ANALYSIS.
(Paterson lab -- Texas A&M University)
Up to six postdoctoral positions (most are new) are available in areas
listed below. The successful candidates will develop and apply new
molecular methods to crop plant genomes, using extensive databases of
prior information (cf. GENETICS 138:499, 138:829, 141:391; PNAS 92:6127;
SCIENCE, 269:1714; NATURE GENETICS 14:380), and existing high-density maps
and YAC/BAC libraries. Outstanding candidates are sought for the following
projects:
(1) Molecular cloning of genes associated with domestication of the cereal
crops. Specific targets include Sh-1, which regulates the "shattering" of
the mature cereal inflorescence, and Ma-1 which regulates the
short-daylength requirement of many tropical grasses for the initiation of
flowering. Each has been fine-mapped to small chromosomal intervals using
a detailed RFLP map (about 2,000 loci), and chromosome walking has been
initiated in a 6.5x BAC library.
(2) Fine mapping and molecular cloning of plant genes conferring apomixis
(asexual seed production). This work benefits from one of the most
simply-inherited and best characterized apomixis systems known, in a
Pennisetum taxon that has a modest genome size and high level of DNA
polymorphism. The work also benefits from an extensive body of
comparative data to other small genome grasses, for which BACs are already
in hand, and with established collaboration with a leading forage
Pennisetum breeder (M. A. Hussey).
(3) Fine mapping and molecular cloning of plant genes conferring insect
resistance. This work will benefit from established map positions for
several genes conferring resistance to the sorghum greenbug (Schizaphis
graminum), as well as a detailed molecular map (about 2,000 RFLP loci) and
6.5x-genome BAC library. Finally, the work benefits from an active and
productive collaboration with a leading sorghum entomologist (G. L.
Teetes).
(4) Unified molecular mapping of higher plant genomes. Development and
implementation of new technologies for identifying conservation of gene
order across large evolutionary distances (such as across different
taxonomic families).
(5) Identification of genes that are expressed specifically in particular
plant organs, and in response to specific developmental cues. Specific
targets include genes that are expressed predominantly in rhizomes
(underground stems), and genes that are transcriptionally regulated in
coordination with the vegetative-reproductive transition of grasses.
(6) Molecular characterization of primary and secondary gene pools, and
advanced-backcross QTL introgression in cotton. This work will use a
well-established cotton map and microsatellite primers, and is in
collaboration with several leading cotton breeders.
QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, or
allied field, a high level of professional motivation, strong oral and
written communication in English, and good interpersonal skills ("team
players"). Applicants are especially sought who have experience in
analysis of large genomic DNAs, and/or analysis of transcriptional
regulation of gene expression. Salary commensurate with experience,
competitive benefits.
TO APPLY, send full CV, reprints of a sampling of first-authored
publications, addresses (preferably email) and phones of at least three
professional references to Dr. Andrew Paterson, Plant Genome Mapping
Laboratory, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843. EMAIL
ahp2343 at bioch.tamu.edu. Affirmative Action/EOE.
