International Society of Chemical Ecology

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Positions Available

 

These pages are intended for ISCE members use only.
ISCE members can submit new available positions to ISCE secretary Erika Plettner.

 

Post-doctoral Position in Metabolomics and Proteomics of Tree Resistance to Pathogens and Insects
A postdoctoral position is available immediately in the Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University (OSU), to use metabolomic and proteomic approaches to study the mechanistic basis of systemic induced resistance (SIR) and cross-effects between pathogens and insects in pine. Part of the project is to assess the effects of nutrient availability on host defense responses associated with SIR. The project is a cooperative effort between the labs of Enrico Bonello (Plant Pathology, OSU, http://plantpath.osu.edu/faculty-and-staff/faculty-directory/bonello-pierluigi-enrico), Dan Herms (Entomology, OSU, http://entomology.osu.edu/personnelsingle.asp?strid=287), and Don Cipollini
(Biological Sciences, Wright State University, http://www.wright.edu/~don.cipollini). Candidates for this position should have a strong record of accomplishment in the areas of molecular plant-microbe or plantinsect interactions, with emphasis on metabolomics/proteomics and modern bioinformatics. Experience working with woody plants is desirable but not necessary. The department and the university offer state of the art facilities and the position provides a competitive salary and full benefits. The position is initially available for one year and is renewable, contingent upon availability of funding.
To build a diverse workforce, Ohio State University encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women. EEO/AA employer.
Interested persons should send a complete CV, including the names of at least three references, to Dr. Pierluigi (Enrico) Bonello, Dept. of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University, 201 Kottman Hall, 2021
Coffey Road, Columbus, OH 43214, USA; tel - +1-614-688-5401; fax - +1-614-292-4455; email: bonello.2@osu.edu.

 

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Collaboration with Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre
Plant Resistance to Pathogens and Pests, including the Role of Plant Secondary Metabolites in Host Finding


Molecular Biology of Insect Olfaction and Host Choice
Within the Linnaeus project we study how insects use chemical signals to recognize their hosts and how the behavioural response is modulated by short-term and long-term events, from receptor neuron to CNS. We now recruite a postdoc in molecular biology who will be studying, in a concerted effort with others working on neurophysiology and behavior, the molecular basis of odor-mediated host choice in Spodoptera littoralis. The tasks will involve various techniques, including bioinformatics and annotation of gene sequences, cloning, in-situ hybridization, and functional characterisation of olfactory receptors.
Qualifications: Candidates hold a PhD, since up to 5 years, with a background in molecular biology, and should be proficient or at least familiar with the techniques listed above. Candidates should be fluent in spoken and written English.
Starting date: January 2010
Contact person: Dr. Mattias Larsson
Applications including a letter of motivation, CV and the names of 3 potential referees, should be sent as soon as possible, or by October 15, 2009 at the latest, electronically or via regular mail to:
info@ice3.se (Subject: Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship)
Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship
Marie Bengtsson
Division of Chemical Ecology, SLU, Box 102
230 53 Alnarp, Sweden

Neuroethology - Interface between Ethology and Neurochemistry
Within the Linnaeus project we study how insects use chemical signals to recognize their hosts and how the behavioural response is modulated by short-term and long-term events, from receptor neuron to CNS. We now recruite a postdoc in neuroethology. Our research on odor-induced behavior of the moth Spodoptera littoralis has demonstrated behavioural switches depending on physiological state in both the male and female. In the present project we want to correlate these behavioral switches with neurochemical and neurophysiological changes. The investigations will include behavioural studies, analysis of neuroactive substances in the brain, and neurophysiological and behavioral investigations following pharmacological manipulation.
Qualifications: Candidates hold a PhD, since up to 5 years, with a background in ecology, ethology or neurobiology and should be proficient in or willing to learn the techniques listed above. Candidates should be fluent in spoken and written English.
Starting date: January 2010
Contact person:Prof. Fredrik Schlyter
Applications including a letter of motivation, CV and the names of 3 potential referees, should be sent as soon as possible, or by October 15, 2009 at the latest, electronically or via regular mail to:
info@ice3.se (Subject: Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship)
Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship
Marie Bengtsson
Division of Chemical Ecology, SLU, Box 102
230 53 Alnarp, Sweden

Insect Chemical Ecology, Ethology and Evolution
Within the Linnaeus project we study how insects use chemical signals to recognize their hosts and how the behavioural response is modulated by short-term and long-term events, from receptor neuron to CNS. Within this framework we are recruiting a postdoc whose research will focus on Drosophila behavior, the identification of active volatiles, and studies of the peripheral encoding of olfactory input.
Qualifications: Candidates hold a PhD, since up to 5 years, with a background in insect behavior and should be proficient in or willing to learn the techniques listed above. Candidates should be fluent in spoken and written English.
Starting date: January 2010
Contact person: Prof. Peter Witzgall
Applications including a letter of motivation, CV and the names of 3 potential referees, should be sent as soon as possible, or by October 15, 2009 at the latest, electronically or via regular mail to:
info@ice3.se (Subject: Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship)
Application for Postdoctoral Fellowship
Marie Bengtsson
Division of Chemical Ecology, SLU, Box 102
230 53 Alnarp, Sweden

Plant Resistance to Pathogens and Pests, including the Role of Plant Secondary Metabolites in Host Finding
The post doctoral researcher will participate in projects addressing plant resistance to pathogens and pests, including the role of plant metabolites in host finding. He/she will be given possibilities to develop specialist skills in chromatographic analysis techniques (HPLC, GC-MS) and in characterization of pathogenic and endophytic fungi using phenotypic microarrays. The project will be coordinated with studies of the host finding behaviour of insect herbivores. The work environment allows the post doctoral researcher to interact with several European research groups.
Qualifications: The ideal candidate has a PhD, since up to 5 years, in biology, forestry, or other relevant discipline. The candidate should be able to demonstrate strong organizational skills and capability of planning, executing and analyzing field or laboratory experiments. He/she should be willing to acquire new skills and independently adapt own skills to new circumstances. Good knowledge of spoken and written English is required. Previous work with chromatographic techniques or sterile work is an advantage.
Conditions: The host department, Southern Swedish Forest Research Center, belongs to the Faculty of Forestry in Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and is located at Alnarp, Scania. Research and teaching are carried out within the following areas: silviculture, forest planning, forest economics and forest history/nature conservation and are focused on Southern Sweden, see department homepage. The post doctoral researcher will interact with the Chemical Ecology Group at the Dept. Plant Protection Biology, Faculty of Landscape Planning, Horticulture and Agricultural Science.
The scholarship is fixed-term, to start at the latest on September 15, 2009, for a period of one to two years.
Contact: For more information, contact Johanna Witzell or Marie Bengtsson
Assoc. Prof. Johanna Witzell
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Southern Swedish Forest Research Center
230 53 Alnarp
tel +46 40 41 5185
e-mail: johanna.witzell@ess.slu.se
Assoc. Prof. Marie Bengtsson
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Plant Protection Biology, Box 102
23053 Alnarp
tel +46 40 41 5308
e-mail: marie.bengtsson@ltj.slu.se
To apply, please forward your CV, a cover letter and contact information of three referees to Johanna Witzell

Senior Scientist (Chemistry and Chemical Ecology)
Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation 
Indooroopilly, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Salary per annum: AUD$72017 - $77584

Background:

This is a team-based role working collaboratively with or leading other research scientists across a number of plant, insect and fungal specialisations to develop agricultural or forestry pest management system products that will significantly benefit primary industries in Queensland

Job details
The key responsibilities required of this job are:
• Develop clear long-term objectives for semiochemical-related pest management system R&D through negotiation within DPI&F and with industry and other stakeholders on a national level.

• Develop links with other chemical ecology laboratories and researchers internationally to maximise collaborative opportunities and fully exploit the expertise available in specific semiochemistries.

• Provide quality input and leadership in the conception, development and management of collaborative research project proposals in the areas of semiochemistry and novel pest management system development.

• Manage projects efficiently through the preparation and monitoring of financial, staff and asset usage budgets, and the adoption of new techniques and methodologies that maximise system profitability and sustainability.

• Create a working environment, which encourages the sharing and effective utilisation of complementary knowledge and skills within multidisciplinary project teams.

• Supervise professional, technical and support staff in multidisciplinary teams or work independently as required.

Key skills, knowledge and experience required to undertake this job are:
(Applicant, please note these are the criteria for assessment of your job application.)
1. Extensive knowledge of plant, insect and fungal  and a demonstrated ability to recognise opportunities to exploit these systems for the development of novel approaches to pest management.

2. Extensive knowledge of agricultural and forestry production systems, processing technologies and markets worldwide, and appreciation of key issues influencing these industries into the future.

3. Knowledge of analytical chemistry and chemical ecology research and development methodologies.
4. Demonstrated ability to develop and lead R&D projects on an industry wide scale and to negotiate objectives and deliver outcomes that advance the industry.

5. Ability to successfully negotiate strategic agreements with managers, research agencies, commercial partners and industry.

6. Well-developed written and oral communication skills to deliver research results and project outcomes to a wide range of clients and stakeholders.

7. Demonstrated ability to prepare and publish key scientific publications in the area of chemistry and chemical ecology

 

Mandatory Qualification required to do this job is:
Possession of a degree in science, applied science, or equivalent qualifications in a field relevant to the position.

 

Post-Doctoral Research Associate at the South African Sugarcane Research Institute Insect Chemical Ecology 
        
DATE:  Position available January, 2010

SALARY:  Commensurate with training and experience

RESPONSIBILITIES: To conduct research on semiochemicals involved in the interaction between the borer Eldana saccharina, non-host and host plants (push – pull) and associated Fusarium species. To characterise the response of sugarcane to damage and resistance inducers. (Details available on request).

See: http://www.sasa.org.za/

QUALIFICATIONS:  Ph.D. trained in entomology, biology, chemistry, or related fields.  Experience in chemical ecology, including extraction, purification, behavioural assays (olfactometry) and identification of semiochemicals. 
Instrumentation skills, including GC, HPLC, and especially electrophysiology (EAG, GC-EAD).

APPLICATION:  Submit CV, relevant reprints and manuscripts, and a letter describing background, skills and interests.  Also submit names, e-mail addresses and phone numbers of three references to:

Stuart Rutherford
Program Manager: Crop Protection
South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI)
Private Bag X02
Mount Edgecombe 4300,
South Africa
stuart.rutherford@sugar.org.za

Closing date when a successful candidate is found

 

 

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