POSTDOC OPPORTUNITY
The NIH-funded ICBG project at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama (http://www.icbgpanama.org/index.html) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Microbiology. STRI is a world-renowned center for research in tropical biology; a description of STRI facilities can be found at www.stri.org. The ICBG laboratory focuses on the culture of novel endophytes from plants as sources of secondary metabolites for drug discovery for tropical diseases and cancer, and is part of a large international team. The position is within the Associate Program 1 (AP1), is housed in the STRI headquarters in Panama City and includes laboratory and office space totaling 1,100 sq. ft. Equipment includes autoclave, shakers, 2 hoods, equipment for preparing organic extracts, PCR equipment and a Bruker 300 Avance NMR. An additional NMR and LC-MS are available with collaborators in Panama. Supervisors are Drs. Thomas Kursar and Phyllis Coley (ecologists, University of Utah) and Elizabeth Arnold (mycologist, University of Arizona). Other key participants are Dr. Luis Cubilla (natural products chemist, University of Panama), Dr. William Gerwick (PI, natural products chemist, Scripps Institution of Oceanography) and Dr. Marcelino Gutierrez (natural products chemist) and Dr. Carmenza Spadafora (cell biologist) at Panama’s national labs (INDICASAT). Extracts produced in Associate Program 1 are sent for bioassays (cancer, leishmaniasis, malaria and American trypanosomiasis) to Associate Program 2 at the INDICASAT laboratories and, through bioassay-guided fractionation, active compounds are purified in Associate Program 3 at the University of Panama. Thus rapid feedback and collaboration are critical to the success of the entire program. Easy access to a diversity of terrestrial and marine habitats is ideal for sample collection. Drug discovery research is complemented by biological inventories, conservation initiatives and outreach activities (Associate Program 5, STRI).
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in Microbiology or a related field
QUALIFICATIONS: Expertise in the isolation and culturing of microbes as well as experience with DNA-based methods of identification and phylogenetic characterization; familiarity with a variety of culturing techniques, including different solid and liquid media conditions; enthusiasm for exploring new methods for the isolation and culturing of novel species in order to enhance production of secondary metabolites; ability to supervise 2-3 assistants plus students and commitment to the goals of promoting conservation and scientific interactions within Panama; and a willingness to learn Spanish.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Isolation and culturing of a wide range of fungi, particularly endophytic fungi from terrestrial plants; interaction and collaboration with laboratories in Panama that are culturing bacteria; supervision of 2-3 assistants plus students; maintenance of the laboratory facilities; coordination with the other ICBG participants.
TERM OF APPOINTMENT: One year, with the possibility of extension to five years, contingent upon positive performance evaluation.
POSITION AVAILABLE: From August 15th 2008 (start date is negotiable).
APPLY TO: Applicants should send a CV, a letter with a summary of research interests, and three letters of recommendation electronically to kursar@biology.utah.edu.
Or by mail to:
Dr. Thomas Kursar
Department of Biology
257 South 1400 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840 USA
CLOSING DATE: This position is open until filled. Initial consideration of applications will begin immediately.
STRI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, committed to excellence through diversity. We strive to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.
submitted by Betsy Arnold
Jun 25th, 2008 by Webmaster
