Postdoctoral Researcher Position available at the University of California, Davis.   We seek a postdoctoral researcher to work on a project investigating the regulatory gene network responsible for the initiation of reproductive development in wheat and barley. Our laboratory has recently cloned the three major vernalization genes from temperate cereals (for a list of publications see http://www.plantsciences.ucdavis.edu/Dubcovsky/publications.htm. Our goal is to identify the genes and gene interactions responsible for the regulation of flowering time in temperate cereals.  Components of this project include the characterization of wheat transgenic plants, promoter dissection studies, detection and characterization of TILLING mutants, and characterization of the genetic and biochemical interactions among flowering genes.

            Applicants with a Ph.D. in plant molecular genetics will be given top priority. Knowledge of biochemical techniques (e.g. yeast one- and two-hybrid, shift-mobility assays, etc.) is an advantage.  Past experience with laboratory-based research is required. Top applicants will have experience in plant genetics and flowering genes. Experience with temperate cereals is a plus.  The position is available immediately but the start date is flexible.  Salary will be commensurate with experience; the position also includes health insurance and other benefits.

To apply, please send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names of three references to Jorge Dubcovsky (jdubcovsky@ucdavis.edu). Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.  For more information contact Dr. Dubcovsky (Tel: 530-752-5159 or to the email above).

Summer Intern - Technology Development, Northern IL/Wisconsin
 
At Seminis, a division of Monsanto, we are committed to recruiting and retaining the best individuals through our team-oriented culture that encourages creativity, decision-making, and entrepreneurial spirit. Seminis is the largest developer, grower and marketer of fruit and vegetable seeds in the world. We lead the development of hybrids that improve nutrition, boost crop yields, limit spoilage and reduce the need of chemicals. Research is the heart of Seminis and its future as we are committed to consistently introducing innovative products for our customers. It's amazing to consider that improving human health, promoting environmental stewardship and fostering greater economic growth for the agricultural community can all start with something as small as a seed.

The student intern will be part of the team conducting field research (peas, corn, cucumbers, squash)   in Technology Development. The location of the intern within the Northern IL and WI area is flexible. The individual should help with field activities (i.e. planting, maintaining and evaluating vegetable trials). Conduct field evaluations with supervision of the TD Representative on various crops as needed. Collect data from yield studies for statistical analysis. The intern will be responsible for an independent project which will require the presentation of the project and the results of it to the group of interns in Monsanto Company.
 
**Offering generous hourly compensation, potential housing  and vehicle allowance may be available**
 
Candidates should be working towards a degree in horticulture, Crop Sciences or related agricultural fields.

Must have a clean DMV record and be a safe driver.

Must be well organized and able to manage time well.

The position requires excellent communication skills and a flexible work schedule.
 
Apply to position at www.seminis.com, req. # mons-00008661

Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, Davis is looking for a junior specialist/research assistant to focus on plant-soil interactions in California grasslands and how they are affected by range management and restoration practices. Job duties primarily include field work (establishing, maintaining and sampling field plots) and lab work (processing and analyzing plant and soil samples), with some additional tasks related to database management and greenhouse experiments. This is a one-year position (with possibility of extension), and the starting date is flexible. Requirements: BA or BS in plants, soils, ecology, or related discipline. Previous field and lab experience. Occasional long days/ over night trips to the field. To apply, submit a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for 3 references to:
Valerie Eviner
veviner@ucdavis.edu
530-752-8538

Job description for Junior Specialist Step I

The role of this position is to process field samples, conduct chemical and microbiological laboratory analyses for two studies: i) an investigation of the function of microbial communities in cover crop rotations of a maize-tomato cropping system at the Russell Ranch (UC Davis) and ii) a study on the effects of climate change on soybeans (SoyFACE, University of Illinois).  The position requires proficiency with data entry, aptitude for working both independently and in a team-setting, and some background in chemistry and/or microbiology.

Specific responsibilities and percentage of each function of the position include:

1. Processing samples collected from the studies taking place at the Russell Ranch and SoyFACE sites.  Sample processing will entail weighing, grinding, sieving, and organizing both soil and plant samples, as well as subsequent chemical analyses of these samples. (30%)

1. Designing and implementing a incubation experiment to examine soil nitrogen dynamics in the field soil samples collected from the studies based at the Russell Ranch and at SoyFACE. (30%)

1. Assisting with molecular assays (e.g., DNA extraction from soil, polymerase chain reactions, and gel electrophoresis, etc.) of rhizosphere microbial communities obtained from soil and plant samples associated with the projects at the Russell Ranch and SoyFACE sites. (30%)

1. Entering and analyzing data using Microsoft Office software and statistical programs (JMP and SAS). (10%)

Beginning date: as soon as position is filled
Ending date: 1 November 2008

Please submit your CV/resume to:

Angela Y. Y. Kong
Agroecology Group/Six Lab
Department of Plant Sciences
Email: aykong@ucdavis.edu
Telephone: 530-752-6309
Fax: 530-752-4361