ASM ACTIVITIES

• Apply for the 2012 ASM General Meeting Minority Travel Grant, Deadline January 27
• 10th ASM Biodefense and Emerging Diseases Research Meeting
• asm2012
• ICAAC® 2012
• 2012 ASM Conferences
• New Education Resources
• Attend ASMCUE and Gain Access to asm2012!
• Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education — New Issue Available!
• Professional Development Opportunities
• New from ASM Press!

FEDERAL AGENCY ACTIVITIES

• Division of Integrative Organismal Systems Core Programs NSF 11-572
• Ocean Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (OCE-PRF) Broadening Participation NSF 11-586
• Ocean Sciences Research Initiation Grants (OCE-RIG) Broadening Participation NSF 11-578
• Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) NSF 12-519
• Partnerships for Development of Therapeutics and Diagnostics for Biodefense (R01, RFA-AI-12-017)
• Fogarty HIV Research Training Program for Low- and Middle-Income Country Institutions (D43, PAR-12-068)
• Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) (R25, PAR-12-056)

ARTICLES OF INTEREST AND OTHER UPDATES

• Job Opportunities at the NIAID
• 21st Annual University of Virginia Summer Research Internship Program (SRIP)
• University of Virginia Biomedical Sciences Graduate Studies
• Senior Marine Scientist at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab
• John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships
• International PhD Scholarships in Biology at University of Queensland
• PhD Assistantship: Fish and ecosystem ecology- Florida International University, Department of Biological Sciences
• University of Tennessee at Knoxville Post-Doctoral Research Associate
• University of Tennessee at Knoxville Ph.D. Student Position
• RTI International, Job Opportunities
  

SPOTLIGHT ON MINORITY MICROBIOLOGY SCIENTISTS

• Hinsby Cadillo-Quiroz, Ph.D., Arizona State University

Apply for the 2012 ASM General Meeting Minority Travel Grant - Deadline January 27

The ASM has posted the applications for the 2012 ASM General Meeting Minority Travel Grant.  The travel grants were created to increase the participation of underrepresented minority (URM) groups in the ASM General Meeting and to increase participation of URM groups in microbiology and related fields. The ASM will select post-doctoral scholars and faculty from URM groups in the microbiological sciences or faculty from Minority Serving Institutions or Community Colleges who have demonstrated their interest in mentoring URM trainees in the microbiological sciences. Each grantee will be offered up to $2000 to defray expenses associated with travel to the ASM General Meeting.  The General Meeting is scheduled June 16 – 19 in San Francisco, CA. To apply for an ASM General Meeting Travel Grant complete the application and submit with all required materials following the instructions outlined on the Application Form. The Application Deadline is Friday, January 27, 2012. Check the ASM web page http://www.asm.org/asmgmminoritytravelgrant for more information and to download an application.  For more information about the ASM General Meeting go to:  http://www.asm.org/asm2012. 

10th ASM Biodefense and Emerging Diseases Research Meeting

February 26 - 29, 2012 | Washington, DC

Deadline for Discounted Rates: January 27, 2012

Join your peers in Washington, D.C. for the 10th ASM Biodefense and Emerging Diseases Research Meeting as they discuss new data related to biodefense and bioterrorism, discover the latest trends in the management and planning of biodefense programs, and explore the most recent international security challenges.

Keynote Session
Hard Knocks: Communicating Vaccine Science to the Public
Paul A. Offit, MD; The Children’s Hosp. of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA.

 New Program
Global Threats, Collaborative Solutions
Attend presentations by the field’s most notable thought leaders, senior advisors, and USG policy officials as they discuss current international security challenges.

For complete program details and to register, please visit http://www.asmbiodefense.org.

asm2012

June 16 - 19, 2012 | San Francisco, CA

Abstract Submission Deadline:  January 16, 2012

Student Travel Grant Letters of Recommendation (LOR) upload Deadline:  January 16, 2012

asm2012 will showcase the central role of microbes in the biosphere by reporting today’s best science in the diverse areas influenced by microbes. The breadth of this meeting provides participants with the chance to immerse themselves in their field of specialization and take forays into different disciplines.

Student Travel Grants

Applications for the ASM Student Travel Grant and the Richard and Mary Finkelstein Travel Grant must be submitted during the abstract submissions process.

Minority Travel Grant

Postdoctoral scholars, faculty from URM groups, and faculty from Minority Serving Institutions and Community Colleges who have demonstrated their interest in mentoring URM trainees in the microbiological sciences will be eligible to receive up to $2,000.

For complete program details and to register, please visit http://www.asm.org/asm2012.

ICAAC® 2012

(Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy)

September 9-12, 2012 | San Francisco, CA

ICAAC, the premier conference on antimicrobial agents and infectious diseases, will showcase the latest-breaking science and lectures of top researchers from around the globe.

Important Dates

Abstract Submission Opens:  January 13, 2012

Registration, Housing, and Website Open:  February 27, 2012

Abstract Submission Closes:  May 7, 2012

Travel Grant Application Submission Closes:  June 29, 2012

Stay tuned to http://www.icaac.org  for more information.

2012 ASM Conferences

11th ASM Conference on Candida and Candidiasis

March 29 - April 2, 2012 |San Francisco, CA

Online Registration is Open!
Abstract Submission Deadline: January 18, 2012
Discounted Pre-Registration Deadline: February 16, 2012

4th ASM Conference on Prokaryotic Cell Biology and Development

May 6 - 10, 2012 | Montreal, Canada

Online Registration is Open!
Abstract Submission Deadline: February 22, 2012
Discounted Pre-Registration Deadline: March 23, 2012

3rd ASM Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance in Zoonotic Bacteria and Foodborne Pathogens in Animals, Humans and the Environment

June 26 – 29, 2012 | Aix-en-Provence, France

Abstract Submission Opens:  January 20, 2012
Online Registration Opens: January 20, 2012

For more information go to:  http://www.asm.org/conferences   

New Education Resources

Seven new resources are available in the ASM MicrobeLibrary, http://www.microbelibrary.org/, an online repository of peer-reviewed teaching resources for undergraduate microbiology education. Five additions are in the library’s Laboratory Protocol Collection, and two are in its Visual Media Briefs Collection. The Laboratory Protocol Collection provides educators with information briefs about standard microbiological laboratory tests. Each brief includes procedural steps as well as the purpose, theory, history, and safety considerations for the protocol, along with tips, comments, and references. The collection offers 38 commonly used protocols and 946 high are Bacterial Agglutination, Motility Test Medium, Nitrate and Nitrite Reduction Test, Phenylethyl Alcohol Agar, and Polymerase Chain Reaction. The Visual Media Briefs Collection consists of high-quality, short communications with digital images, animations, and videos about the microbial world. The collection’s newest resources are Transmission Electron Micrographs of Negatively Stained Salmonella Typhimurium Flagella and Fimbriae and Campylobacter jejuni Flagella and Molecular Analysis of Bacterial Isolates Used as Unknowns in a Bacteriology Laboratory Exercise.

-quality images (the MicrobeLibrary Gallery) linked to the protocols; its newest resources

2012 Planning Calendar. The 2012 Education Planning Calendar, http://www.asm.org/images/Education/asm%20calendar.pdf, is now available. The calendar features dates and deadlines for ASM faculty and student programs and is designed to help members enhance the knowledge and skills that lead to successful careers in the microbiological sciences. Many programs require advance application or registration. Please refer to the complete program descriptions for details.

Attend ASMCUE and Gain Access to asm2012!

Register today for the 19th Annual ASM Conference for Undergraduate Educators (ASMCUE), http://www.asmcue.org/! Planned for June 14-17, 2012, in San Mateo, Calif., ASMCUE is a rigorous conference that blends cutting-edge science and the most effective ways of improving student learning in the biological sciences. This year's conference features a joint program with asm2012 , http://gm.asm.org/  (the 2012 ASM General Meeting) that delivers two exciting ASMCUE attendee benefits: a complimentary field trip to the opening asm2012 keynote session and reception on June 16 and a one-day registration pass for asm2012 sessions held on June 17. Moreover, the conference offers plenary lectures by several of today's leaders in science and education. Don't miss talks by 2011 Carski Foundation Distinguished Undergraduate Teaching Awardee Spencer Benson (University of Maryland), virologist Melanie Ott (Gladstone Institute), genomicist Michael Snyder (Stanford University), and 2010 National Science Foundation CAREER Grant Awardee and 2011 Society for College Science Teachers Outstanding Undergraduate Science Teacher Awardee Kimberly Tanner (San Francisco State University). Other items to note:

• Abstract submissions are due February 1
• Travel submissions are due February 15
• Microbrew submissions are due February 29
• Discounted registration ends March 16

For more information about the conference, including abstract submission and travel application guidelines, visit http://www.asmcue.org.

Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education — New Issue Available!

Volume 12, issue 2, of the peer-reviewed Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education (JMBE), http://jmbe.asm.org/index.php/jmbe is available as of December 2011. JMBE articles may be accessed at no cost and promote good pedagogy and design, foster scholarly teaching, and advance biology education research. Highlights of the new issue include Summer Workshop in Metagenomics: One Week Plus Eight Students Equals Gigabases of Cloned DNA, by Carlos Rios-Velazquez, et al. and Introductory Biology Textbooks Under-Represent Scientific Process, by Dara B. Duncan, et. al, along with six curriculum activities that engage students in the scientific process and demonstrate how to assess student learning. JMBE editors welcome article submissions and provide hands-on guidance through the review process. Manuscripts are reviewed on a rolling basis with dispositions provided within five weeks. However, to be considered for each volume, submissions must be received by July 1 (for the December issue) or December 1 (for the May issue).

Professional Development Opportunities

Faculty

Biology Scholars Program. The 2012 NSF-sponsored Biology Scholars Program offers continuum of three independent, but intertwined, professional development residencies to guide dedicated biology and microbiology faculty in taking their classroom teaching and educational research to the next level: The Transitions Residency helps Scholars “transition” from conducting scholarly work in student learning to publishing in print and electronic biology and/or science education venues. The 2012 residency kicks off with the Science Education Research to Publication Institute held on July 16-18 in Washington, D.C. In the Assessment Residency, Scholars learn to measure students’ foundational knowledge, monitor gains in learning, and collaborate with colleagues to improve student learning and performance. The 2012 residency kicks off with the Measuring Student Learning Institute planned for June 27-30 in Washington, D.C. Finally, the Research Residency helps Scholars design research projects that investigate student learning; understand methods for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting surveys and data on student learning outcomes; and identify the best venues for publishing study results. The 2012 residency kicks off with the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Institute on July 25-28 in Washington, D.C. Application deadlines are February 1, February 15, and March 1 for the Transitions, Assessment, and Research Residencies respectively. Learn more at http://www.biologyscholars.org.

ASM/JGI Functional Genomics Institute. Undergraduate faculty in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines are encouraged to attend the 2012 ASM/JGI Functional Genomics Institute, which will be held June 24-29 at Hiram College, Hiram, Ohio. Through the use of problem-based learning techniques, individual and group work, and peer mentoring, the institute offers STEM faculty members with little or no training in the genomic sciences valuable professional development training, along with the tools and knowledge to creatively address unique classroom challenges. This is a great opportunity to learn and network with like-minded colleagues, so don’t wait, apply today! The institute is managed by ASM and sponsored by Hiram College and the U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute. Apply by February 15. Learn more at http://www.facultyprograms.org.

Students

ASM Undergraduate Research Fellowship: Last Call! The ASM Committee on Undergraduate Education invites applications for its 2012 ASM Undergraduate Research Fellowship (URF). The URF program provides undergraduate students who wish to pursue Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. careers in microbiology with opportunities to conduct full-time research at their home institutions and present research results. Fellows spend a minimum of 10 weeks in the summer conducting research projects under the direction of ASM member faculty mentors. In addition, dependent on abstract submission and acceptance, the students are supported to present their research results at the following summer’s ASM General Meeting. Interested students should apply by February 1. Please note that this program requires a joint application from both the student and an ASM member faculty mentor willing to serve as the student's mentor for the duration of the research experience. Learn more at http://www.asm.org/urf.

New from ASM Press!

Polar Microbiology: Life in a Deep Freeze

Author: Editors: Robert V. Miller and Lyle Whyte

Polar Microbiology: Life in a Deep Freeze is a captivating examination of how microorganisms survive and even thrive within the iciest locations of the Earth’s polar surfaces. Scientists, students and the general microbiology audience alike are expected to gain new insight into the microbial ecology and physiology of the Arctic and Antarctic regions from this text. 

http://estore.asm.org/viewItemDetails.asp?ItemID=1039

Candida and Candidiasis, 2nd Edition

Author: Editors: Richard A. Calderone and Cornelius J. Clancy

Providing a promising new direction into the ongoing study of Candida, Candida and Candidiasis, 2nd Edition is a comprehensive exploration of the latest findings in genome variability, host pathogen interactions, antifungal resistance and drug discovery, and diagnostics. This title is an invaluable source for scientists, clinicians, professors and anyone generally interested in the topic of candida pathogenesis.

http://estore.asm.org/viewItemDetails.asp?ItemID=1037

Genome Plasticity and Infectious Diseases

Author: Editors: Jörg Hacker, Ulrich Dobrindt, and Reinhardt Kurth                

Genome Plasticity and Infectious Diseases provides an authoritative account of the current understanding of pathogen adaptation and microevolution. A detailed text, this book covers a wide range of bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic pathogens all within the focus of genome plasticity.

http://estore.asm.org/viewItemDetails.asp?ItemID=1038

Division of Integrative Organismal Systems Core Programs NSF 11-572

The Division of Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS) supports research aimed at understanding why organisms are structured the way they are and function as they do. Proposals should focus on organisms as a fundamental unit of biological organization. PIs are encouraged to apply systems approaches that will lead to conceptual and theoretical insights and predictions about emergent organismal properties. Areas of inquiry include, but are not limited to, developmental biology and the evolution of developmental processes, nervous system development, structure, and function, physiological processes, functional morphology, symbioses, interactions of organisms with biotic and abiotic environments, and animal behavior.   Deadline is January 12, 2012.  More information is available at http://nsf.gov/pubs/2011/nsf11572/nsf11572.htm.

Ocean Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (OCE-PRF) Broadening Participation NSF 11-586

The Division of Ocean Sciences (OCE) offers Postdoctoral Research Fellowships to increase the participation of under-represented groups in the ocean sciences. Awards are intended to support the individual fellows' research and increase the diversity of the U.S. ocean sciences research community. In this solicitation, the term under-represented groups will refer to and include the following: women, persons with disabilities, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Pacific Islanders. Fellowships are awards to individuals, not organizations, and are administered by the fellows.  Deadline is January 13, 2012.  More information is available at http://nsf.gov/pubs/2011/nsf11586/nsf11586.htm.

Ocean Sciences Research Initiation Grants (OCE-RIG) Broadening Participation NSF 11-578

The Division of Ocean Sciences (OCE) offers Research Initiation Grants in an effort to increase the participation of under-represented groups in the ocean sciences. Research Initiation Grants provide start up funding for researchers who have been recently appointed to tenure track (or equivalent) positions, with the twin goals of enhancing the development of their research careers and broadening the participation of under-represented groups in ocean sciences. In this solicitation, the term under-represented groups will refer to and include the following: women, persons with disabilities, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Pacific Islanders.  Deadline is January 13, 2012.  More information is available at http://nsf.gov/pubs/2011/nsf11578/nsf11578.htm.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) NSF 12-519

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have awarded a large share of bachelor's degrees to African American students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and the top ten baccalaureate institutions of African American STEM doctorate recipients from 2002-2006 are HBCUs. To meet the nation's accelerating demands for STEM talent, more rapid gains in achievement, success and degree production in STEM for underrepresented minority populations are needed. The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) is committed to enhancing the quality of undergraduate STEM education and research at HBCUs as a means to broaden participation in the nation's STEM workforce. To this end, HBCU-UP provides awards to develop, implement, and study innovative models and approaches for making dramatic improvements in the preparation and success of HBCU undergraduate students so that they may participate successfully in STEM graduate programs and/or careers in STEM disciplines. Support is available for Targeted Infusion Projects, Broadening Participation Research Projects, Research Initiation Awards, Implementation Projects and Achieving Competitive Excellence Implementation Projects, as well as other funding opportunities.  Letter of intent is due January 20, 2012.  More information is available at http://nsf.gov/pubs/2012/nsf12519/nsf12519.htm.

Partnerships for Development of Therapeutics and Diagnostics for Biodefense (R01, RFA-AI-12-017)

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), invites research applications for projects that support preclinical development of lead candidate therapeutics or diagnostics against NIAID Category A, B, or C priority agents. Applications must include a Product Development Strategy attachment and demonstrate substantive investment by at least one industrial participant.  Letters of intent are due April 24, 2012.  More information is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-AI-12-017.html.

Fogarty HIV Research Training Program for Low- and Middle-Income Country Institutions (D43, PAR-12-068)

The purpose of this FOA is to encourage applications for research training programs to strengthen the HIV research capacity at low- and middle-income country (LMIC) institutions. Each application should propose a training program that will build or strengthen research capacity in an applicant-defined HIV-related scientific topic at an identified LMIC institution.  Current AITRP and Phase II ICOHRTA AIDS TB award institutions are not eligible to submit applications under this FOA until the last year of their current AITRP or Phase II ICOHRTA AIDS TB project period.  U.S. Institutions must have on-going HIV research collaborations with the LMIC institution named in their application to be eligible to apply.  Only LMIC institutions with a previous planning grant award under the AIDS International Training and Research Program (AITRP), an award under the Phase II (U2R) International Clinical, Operations and Health Services Research Training Award for AIDS and TB Program (ICOHRTA AIDS TB), or a planning grant award under this program (Planning Grant for HIV Research Training for Low-and Middle-Income Country Institutions D71 Award) may apply in response to this FOA.  Other LMIC institutions should apply for a planning grant- see D71 FOA.    Letters of intent are due June 24, 2012.  More information is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-068.html.

Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) (R25, PAR-12-056)

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), encourages Research Education Grant (R25) applications from institutions that propose to develop recent baccalaureate science graduates from diverse backgrounds so that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue PhD or MD-PhD degrees in biomedical and behavioral sciences.  The program provides support for well-designed academic enhancements and extensive research experiences aimed at preparing individuals from groups underrepresented in biomedical and behavioral sciences to complete PhD or MD-PhD degree programs in these disciplines.  Applications are due February 24, 2012, by 5:00 PM local time of applicant organization.  More information is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-12-056.html.

Job Opportunities at the NIAID

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), one of the largest Institutes of the world-renowned National Institutes of Health, conducts and supports a global program of basic and applied research to better understand, treat, and ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases. NIAID’s legacy of research innovation and collaboration, in areas such as HIV/AIDS, pandemic and seasonal influenza, malaria, tuberculosis, and vaccine research, spans over 60 years.

A talented, motivated, and diverse workforce is NIAID’s greatest asset, and we are always seeking qualified candidates to help us improve the health of millions in the United States and around the world. Opportunities are available for an array of career stages and types of research, including research training and fellowships for students and postdocs to gain valuable education and research experience, as well as positions for established M.D.s and Ph.D.s both in labs and overseeing NIAID’s many grantees.

Apply today to make a difference tomorrow.

A career with NIAID not only gives you access to great benefits and competitive pay, but it provides the opportunity to perform meaningful public service. As an NIAID employee, you are part of a team of dedicated scientific and business management professionals who are leading the way toward important medical and scientific discoveries.

NIAID maintains its commitment to improve minority health and attract highly qualified minority scientists to infectious, immunologic, and allergic disease research.

Learn more about NIAID’s available training and career opportunities.

* Visit us on the Web, http://www.niaid.nih.gov/about/working/Pages/default.aspx

* Follow us on Twitter, http://twitter.com/NIAIDCareers

* Like us on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/niaid.nih

HHS, NIH, and NIAID are equal opportunity employers

21st Annual University of Virginia Summer Research Internship Program (SRIP)

Ten week summer research internships are available for qualified undergraduates considering a career in biomedical research. We provide a generous stipend, round-trip travel, and housing to those accepted. Supported by peer-reviewed NIH grants and other extramural organizations, SRIP exposes a diverse group of students to current biomedical research. SRIP alumni have had great success at starting their research careers and many have enrolled in our graduate programs at UVA.  More information is available at med.virginia.edu/srip.

University of Virginia Biomedical Sciences Graduate Studies

Completion of a Ph.D. Program is not easy.  Indeed, there are many long hours of studying, and many days and evenings in the laboratory.  However, the rewards are very significant.  There is little that can match the joy and excitement of discovery, the satisfaction of understanding a complex process, and the knowledge that what you are doing may lead to improvements in the health of mankind. We believe that the Ph.D. Programs at the University of Virginia School of Medicine are among the best in the country and we invite you to join us.  More information is available at bims.virginia.edu.

Senior Marine Scientist at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab invites applications for two permanent faculty positions at the level of Senior Marine Scientist I (equivalent to Assistant Professor); exceptional candidates may be considered at a higher rank.  We seek candidates to complement the expertise of our current faculty, whose interests include marine ecology, fisheries, physical, chemical & biological oceanography.  The focus areas are phytoplankton ecology (with an emphasis on tropic dynamics & biogeochemical processes in coastal ecosystems) & marine ecology (with an emphasis on population and community ecology in estuarine & coastal systems).  Duties include establishing & maintaining a productive research program, teaching two courses per year & advising graduate students.  Competitive start-up funding is available.  A Ph.D. must be completed prior to the start date.  Post-doc experience is highly preferred.  Additional information on DISL can be found at  http://www.disl.org.  Applicants should send a cv, brief statement of research interests & teaching philosophy, 2-3 selected reprints, & the names & contact information (including email addresses) of 3 references to the Senior Marine Scientist Search Committee (smssearch@disl.org).  Review of applications will begin December 15, 2011 & continue until the positions are filled.  DISL is an EOE/AA/M/F/D employer.

John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships

The John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships Program was established in 1979 to provide a unique educational experience to students who have an interest in marine/ocean/Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program is open to all students enrolled in a graduate or professional program in a marine- or aquatic-related field at a U.S.–accredited institution of higher learning. The fellowships, over 50 were awarded for the 2012 class, allow students to share their expertise with policy makers in Washington, D.C., and provide a first-hand look at how science is used in the policy arena and how decisions are made.  Many Knauss fellows are offered permanent employment by their sponsoring agencies and either remain in the Washington, DC, area or receive assignments to offices across the United States.  The stipend for the Fellowship is $41,500 plus an additional $9,000 for moving and travel expenses and mandatory health insurance, and $2,000 for Placement Week expenses.  Eligible graduate students must submit applications to State Sea Grant college programs. Applications (see attached announcement) from prospective fellows to the Louisiana Sea Grant College Program are due 17 February 2012.  Please contact your local Sea Grant Program.  To obtain the RFP, please visit http://www.grants.gov, Federal Funding Opportunity #: NOAA-OAR-SG-2013-2003219.  For more information, please contact Chelsea.Lowes@noaa.gov.

International PhD Scholarships in Biology at University of Queensland

The School of Biological Sciences is a large and research intensive unit at the University of Queensland, one of Australia’s most prestigious Universities. The School has broad expertise across the disciplines of ecology and evolution, molecular and quantitative genetics, developmental biology, behaviour, plant and animal physiology, and conservation biology.  Our research programs span all scales of biological organisation, from molecules and cells, to organisms, populations, species and communities, and take advantage of study animal and plant systems in a large variety of habitats (see http://www.biology.uq.edu.au/ for detailed information on our research programs). The School is very pleased to announce a new initiative that has made available a number of PhD scholarships for talented International students who enrol in our PhD program in 2012.

PhD Assistantship: Fish and ecosystem ecology- Florida International University, Department of Biological Sciences

A Ph.D. assistantship is available beginning August 2012 in the Biological Sciences Department at Florida International University.  The position will be based at the waterfront Biscayne Bay Campus in the recently built Marine Sciences Building at FIU.  The doctoral student will collaborate on a project between researchers at Florida International University, George Mason University, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department focused on the analysis of a 20 year historical fisheries independent and environmental dataset collected across the Texas coastal zone spanning from Sabine Lake to the Lower Laguna Madre.  The successful applicant will lead a project quantifying ecosystem dynamics of these estuarine systems, focusing on the effects of habitat alteration, anthropogenic effects and influence of climate variability with respect to the nekton community. In parallel, the student will work to develop an ecosystem-based model in Ecopath to aid in evaluating the process-level effects of ecosystem variability.  Completed applications for graduate admission are due by January 15, 2012 (http://www2.fiu.edu/~biology1/grad/phdbiology.htm).  Please send a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Kevin Boswell (kevin.boswell@fiu.edu) and Dr. Kim de Mutsert (kdemutse@gmu.edu).

University of Tennessee at Knoxville Post-Doctoral Research Associate

University of Tennessee at Knoxville Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Earth and Planetary Sciences-Pay Grade 0, - Salary DOE&Q - Full Time -A post-doctoral research associate position is available in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Potential applicants should have an interest in microbial geochemistry and geomicrobiology research, as the current project focuses on the dynamic biochemical and ecological impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in coast and marsh ecosystems. The candidate will join a large, multi-institutional team of researchers. Duties will include field and laboratory research combining aqueous, organic, and stable isotope geochemistry with environmental microbiology and metagenomics techniques. Additional duties include helping to supervise interdisciplinary research in an active lab, including assisting undergraduates conducting independent research projects, and presenting and publishing research results. A Ph.D. in geology, microbiology, chemistry, or relevant field is required, and the candidate should have oral and written English language communication skills. Preference will be given to applicants (1) with demonstrated geochemistry, bioinformatics, and computational skills, (2) who have research productivity in the form of scientific publications and funding experience, and (3) who are willing to travel regularly for field work. The initial appointment will be for one year, with subsequent annual renewals pending satisfactory performance and availability of funds. To apply: please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Annette Summers Engel (aengel1@utk.edu) with "postdoc" in the subject line.

University of Tennessee at Knoxville Ph.D. Student Position

A position for a Ph.D. student is available in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Tennessee in Knoxville, beginning Fall 2012. Potential students should have an interest microbial geochemistry, and be willing to focus their dissertation research on the biogeochemical impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on coastal marsh ecosystems. Main duties will include conducting field and laboratory research that combines aqueous, organic, and stable isotope geochemistry with environmental microbiology and metagenomics techniques. The student will be part of an active interdisciplinary research group, and laboratory training in microbiology, chemistry, or sedimentology is required. Preference will be given to applicants who (1) have completed a Masters degree, (2) have excellent oral and written English language communication skills, (3) have demonstrated research productivity and possess skills in geochemistry or bioinformatics, and (4) are willing to travel regularly for field work. To inquire, please submit a CV and a letter that includes details of coursework and GRE/TOEFL scores, and research interests and experience to Dr. Annette Summers Engel (aengel1@utk.edu) with “PhD position” in the subject line.

RTI International, Job Opportunities

The newly established Center for Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology is looking for candidates to fill the positions of Microbiologist/Technician in the field of biofuels and waste valorization and  Microbiologist/Technician  in Sustainable Agriculture. The focus and goal of the Center is to conduct advanced agricultural and biotechnology research that enhances understanding of critical plant-microbe interactions, physiological processes, and metabolomic modeling that enables a wide range of commercial applications related to agricultural sustainability, global climate change, food security & safety, renewable energy, ethnobotany, green biotechnology, and bioremediation integrated with site management.

The Microbiologist/Technician in the field of biofuels and waste valorization position requires experience in the isolation, characterization and identification of bacteria and fungi from environmental samples.  The successful candidate will utilize a number of tools to genetically engineer bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes.  Experience in anaerobic bacteriology and fermentation science is highly desirable.  Must have a strong background in molecular and cellular biology  as well as foundation in basic areas of microbiology combined with strong data analysis skills.  The candidate will be expected to interact and support research partners both internal and external to RTI.

Job Duties:          

•Microbiological procedures for the isolation, characterization and preservation of bacteria and fungi.

•Small scale fermentation

•Preparation of environmental samples for genomic and metagenomic analyses

•Protein purification, SDS-PAGE, western blots, enzyme assays

•Develop new methods, interpret and evaluate data, and prepare relevant reports in such areas as bacteriology and mycology

Qualifications:

•Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or biology, or chemistry with a focus on subjects geared toward the study of microorganisms.

•One to two years of relevant experience preferred.

•Experience performing microbiological procedures for the isolation, characterization and preservation of bacteria and fungi preferred as well as small-scale fermentation.

•Experience with protein purification, SDS-PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis), Western blots and enzyme assays preferred.

•Experience in anaerobic bacteriology and fermentation science is highly desirable

To apply:  http://www.rti.org/job13799

The Microbiologist-Sustainable Agriculture Technician position requires experience in the isolation, characterization and identification of bacteria and fungi from environmental samples, especially plant related.  The successful candidate will utilize a number of tools to genetically engineer bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes.  Experience in analytical techniques for small molecules is highly desirable.  Must have a strong background in molecular biology techniques.  The candidate will be expected to interact and support research partners both internal and external to RTI.

Job Duties

•Perform microbiological procedures for the isolation, characterization and preservation of bacteria and fungi

•Develop protocols for small molecule screening and analysis using LC-MS, GC-MS, TLC, and HPLC

•Utilize molecular techniques daily to include DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, Q-RT-PCR

•Develop new methods, interpret and evaluate data, and prepare relevant reports in such areas as bacteriology and mycology

•Perform high-throughput testing of microorganisms

Qualifications

•BS degree in microbiology or biology, or biochemistry plus 4 years of relevant experience or MS degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.

•Experience with small metabolite analysis required.

•Experience with Q-PCR preferred.

•Experience with cloning and high-throughput testing highly desirable.

•Experience analyzing plant samples also highly desirable.

To apply:  http://www.rti.org/job13804

To qualify, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and should not require now, or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status.

SPOTLIGHT ON MINORITY MICROBIOLOGY SCIENTISTS

Hinsby Cadillo-Quiroz, Ph.D., Arizona State University

A recent paper by E. Yashiro, Hinsby Cadillo-Quiroz and colleagues from Arizona State University and Cornell University (Biogeochemistry, 2011, Online First DOI 10.1007/s10533-011-9644-5) describes a unique study of the composition and diversity patterns of methane-producing Archaea from the Appalachian mountain region. Methanogenic Archaea are ubiquitous in carbon-rich peat soils; however, their diversity, distribution and potential relationship to climate and atmospheric change are not well known. Evaluating multiple sites from an extensive geographical region, including a rich-to-poor environmental gradient, this study assessed the influences of site conditions, site history, and climate on community composition. The study identified broadly distributed plus endemic novel methanogens, as well as a positive relationship between methanogen diversity and rates of CH4 production per site (Pearson r = 0.93). Interestingly, the turnover in community composition between sites was weakly related to geographic distance, whereas variation in soil pH and annual temperature played larger roles. This study concluded that methanogen diversity in peatlands of the central Appalachian region is shaped by present-day environmental conditions, suggesting an influence of impending climatic and environmental changes. Further research on the specific effects of climate change and microbial feedbacks to gas emissions will provide better quantification and prediction of the role of microorganisms in carbon cycling and release of greenhouse gases.

Dr. Cadillo-Quiroz (http://sols.asu.edu/people/faculty/hcadilloquiroz.php) is a microbiologist with broad expertise in ecological and evolutionary studies of methane-producing Archaea and associated Bacteria. He was recently appointed as Assistant Professor of Microbial Ecology in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. He earned his bachelor’s degree and professional title in microbiology with honors from the School of Biological Sciences at San Marcos National University in Lima, Peru. He completed his doctoral degree in microbiology from Cornell University. His research focuses on the ecology, physiology, genomics and evolution of novel methane-producing Archaea inhabiting acidic and circumneutral wetlands storing high levels of organic carbon (peatlands). Specifically, he seeks to identify genetic traits that structure archaeal and bacterial communities and genes or genomic regions unique to these species. In addition, his work assesses the impact of microbial diversity in ecosytem functioning in several environments, and mathematically models rates of ecosystem processes in which these organisms are involved. Prior to his appointment at ASU, Dr. Cadillo-Quiroz was a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Oregon Institute of Ecology and Evolution where he studied the variability of methane production in anaerobic ecosystems. Prior, he was a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Illinois Department of Microbiology where his work focused on the genomics and evolutionary trajectory of populations of the Archaea Sulfolobus islandicus. He has published in Nature, Environmental Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology, PLoS ONE and other journals. In addition, he is part of multiple interdisciplinary graduate programs at ASU including Biological Design, Environmental Life Sciences, and Molecular and Cellular Biology. His new lab actively seeks to engage underrepresented minority students and Dr. Cadillo-Quiroz is a steering member of several undergraduate research initiatives including REPU (Research Experience for Peruvian Undergraduates).

In July 2006, the Committee on Microbiological Issues Impacting Minorities (CMIIM) of the American Society for Microbiology Public and Scientific Affairs Board developed a monthly e-newsletter which contains information pertinent to minority microbiologists.  Currently, there are very few minority-based newsletters for scientists, and there are none for microbiologists. 

This e-newsletter provides a central means of distributing pertinent information to underrepresented minorities in the field of microbiology.  Some examples include career advice, networking tips, relevant news articles, unique funding and career opportunities, microbiological issues affecting minorities (e.g., HIV), minority issues affecting microbiologists (e.g., minority retention), and scientific articles published by minorities or by minority-serving institutions (MSIs). 

The target populations are African-Americans, Latino-Americans, Native Americans, Alaska natives, and Pacific Islanders; however, all ASM members are invited to sign up and to share this information with others who may find this e-newsletter beneficial.  

Signing up to receive The Minority Microbiology Mentor is very easy and is open to ASM members and non-members:  simply go to http://www.asm.org/subscribe.asp enter your email address, and select "MinorityMicroMentor" then submit, and you will receive confirmation of your subscription by email.  If you are an ASM member, you will be prompted to Log In before signing up.

The Committee on Microbiological Issues Impacting Minorities is chaired by Marian Johnson-Thompson, Ph.D., retired Director of Education and Biomedical Research Development at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, in Research Triangle Park, NC. The Minority Microbiology Mentor Editor-in-Chief is Dwayne W. Boucaud, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Quinnipiac University Department of Biomedical Sciences in Hamden, CT and the Associate Editor is Crystal N. Johnson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.

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