Postdoctoral Position: Direct Effects of Insecticides on Plant Defense Against Insect Herbivores
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE Eubanks Lab, Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University Full-time 2-year appointment. Available summer 2012. Competitive salary and benefits package available. Project: Neonicotinoid pesticides are one of the most widely used pesticide classes in the world. Applications of neonicotinoids, however, have been linked to outbreaks of non-susceptible, secondary pests, especially spider mites. Our preliminary data suggests that neonicotinoid pesticides suppress the expression of plant genes involved in induced defense against pests and that corresponding reductions in plant defense drive outbreaks of spider mites. We recently received USDA NIFA funding to quantify the effect of neonicotinoid pesticides on induced defense in cotton and corn and determine the consequences for spider mite populations and pest management. Our specific objectives are to investigate the mechanisms involved in expression of induced defenses of these crop plants to important pests (mites) and study the effects of neonicotinoid pesticides on these induced defenses. This work will focus on expression of defense genes and quantify the ecological impact of these pesticides by examining their effect on the abundance of secondary pests and their natural predators. Responsibilities: The successful candidate will provide leadership in sequencing transcriptomes, analyzing gene expression, and performing follow-up experiments as part of our multidisciplinary research team. In addition, the postdoctoral associate will participate in greenhouse and field experiments to address our goals. The candidate will participate in all aspects of research ranging from planning and execution of experiments to publication and grant writing. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will have many opportunities for professional development such as participation in conferences, collaborations with faculty associated with Texas A&M University, mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and networking with visiting scientists. Texas A&M University has a vibrant and active Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Program as well as interdisciplinary programs in Genetics and Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences that provide ample opportunities for social and professional interactions among scientists from diverse backgrounds. Qualifications: Exceptional candidates with a Ph.D. in Entomology, Biology, Plant Science, Ecology or related fields with expertise in molecular biology, bioinformatics and interdisciplinary ecological research. Experience should be documented by publication record. Candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills. The ability to work both independently and part of a team is a must, including the capacity to supervise students in the lab and function in a relatively large, diverse lab group. Significant experience with whole genome sequencing data is preferred. Enquiries: Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Micky Eubanks (m- euba...@tamu.edu) or 979-862-7847. To apply: Email a single PDF file to m-euba...@tamu.edu containing: (1) a current CV including publication list, (2) a statement of research experience and interests, especially those relevant to the position, and (3) the names and contact information for three references familiar with your work and abilities. All requested information must be received for final consideration. Application review will start February 13th and continue until the position is filled.
