The Plant Physiology Unit of the Department of Plant Biology and Centre of Excellence CEBIOVEM is seeking a post-doctoral research associate to work under the supervision of Prof. Massimo Maffei.
TOPIC DESCRIPTION: Successful defence depends on the ability of the plant to recognize an attacking ‘enemy’ as early as possible. Early defence responses require enemy-initiated signalling cascades. Their activation ensures an induced response that is quantitative, timely and coordinated with other activities of the host cells. Damage-induced ion imbalances and modulations of channel activities are the first events occurring in the plasma membrane and result in rapid perturbations of the plasma membrane potential (Vm) involving variations of cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations. Interacting downstream crosstalks of kinases and phytohormones mediate the signal and result in concerted gene activation. Current research on the plant–insect interaction is focused mainly on genomics and proteomics, which are late events induced by biotic stress. In addition, events within the first seconds to minutes, which are responsible for recognition and triggering of signal transduction pathways, play a fundamental role. Moreover, the complex interactions among plants, their pathogens and/or herbivores and the environment is gaining more and more attention as new pathways and signalling molecules are discovered, revealing their importance both for the understanding of basic science issues, such as the evolutionary tracks that led to the plants of today, or applied science issues, such the discovery of new environmental friendly tools to fight pests and diseases.
PROJECT LAYOUT - The model system will be represented by selected plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa (rice), Glycine max (Soybean) and Phaseolus lunatus (Lima bean), for which physiological and genomic informations are available in our labs, pathogens (Pseudomonoas syringae) herbivores (Spodoptera littoralis) and aphids (Myzus persicae), interacting under different environmental conditions. Electrophysiological studies and Confocal laser microscopy detection of Ca2+ and ROS will evaluate early responses, while genomic studies (Real-Time PCR, and gene microarray analyses), proteomic (LC ESI MS/MS and CE/MS) and metabolomic (GC-MS and CE-MS) will show late responses to biotic stresses in changing environmental conditions. All equipment to perform such research is available in the labs of the Tutor.
QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in biochemistry, modern plant science, genomics, or other related field by date of hire. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to work well as a member of an integrated research team. Preferred Qualifications: Documented expertise (as demonstrated by at least 5 ISI-referenced relevant publications) in at least two of the following areas: 1. A strong background in modern comparative functional genomics, including extensive experience in working with pre-printed long oligo arrays and/or experience in using quantitative real time PCR to evaluate gene expression; detailed knowledge of appropriate experimental design and statistical analysis is expected. 2. A strong background in modern biochemical analysis of protein function, including expression of proteins in heterologous systems and purification of proteins from native and heterologous systems, analysis of protein activity using modern detection techniques, such as yeast-two and one-hybrid approaches, promoter binding analysis, and enzyme activity assays. 3. A strong background in the use of gene microarray scanners and LC ESI MS/MS proteomic analyses. Individuals with experience in plant-insect interaction, especially with regards to characterization of gene function and with proved experience in GC-MS analyses of volatile organic compounds are especially encouraged to apply.
OTHER SPECIALTIES: Expertise in plant molecular biology, cell biology, confocal microscopy, LC ESI MS/MS is desirable. Experience in Arabidopsis genetics is advantageous but not required.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 relevant publications (selection will be also made on impact factor); Candidates must demonstrate to have a research experience of at least two consecutive years as a post-doc, research associate, pool scientist, etc. in the last five years.
DEADLINE: Interested applicant must contact Prof. Maffei (see below) before October 20th 2008.
SALARY: 35,000 Euros/Year for two years.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Send an application package through e-mail (a cover letter detailing experience; CV; publication pdf reprints; and names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of three references) to Prof. Massimo Maffei, Plant Physiology Unit, Dept Plant Biology and Centre of Excellence CEBIOVEM. Phone: +39011 670 5967; fax: +39011 236 5967; email: massimo.maffei@unito.it
