Neurodevelopmental Biology - Graduate Research Position Available at the Masters or PhD level

An opportunity to pursue graduate research study at the Masters or PhD level is available in neurodevelopmental biology. Current projects in the lab include:

1. Deciphering the T-box transcription factor regulatory network specifying neuronal cell fates employing a genetic modifier screen (Leal et al., Dev. Biol. 325:138-150, 2009).
2. Establishing microarray studies to identify target genes regulated by the T-box transcription factor Midline.
3. Functional characterization of a new gene recently identified from a chromosomal deficiency screen that regulates neuronal axon guidance in the Drosophila embryonic CNS.

The Department of Biological Sciences at The University of Southern Mississippi offers state-of-the-art research facilities supported by the Mississippi Functional Genomics Network, a competitive graduate student stipend with excellent health benefits, paid tuition, teaching assistantships, and a wide range of graduate-level courses to enhance student education. Dr. Leal is supported by an NSF grant and Research Assistantships are also available. Hattiesburg is a diverse and rapidly growing University community nestled in the "Pine Belt" forest and is located within an hour's drive from the scenic Gulf coast and about two hours from New Orleans.

Interested candidates can contact:
Dr. Sandra M. Leal
University of Southern Mississippi
118 College Drive, #5018
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
e-mail: sandra.leal@usm.edu
Phone: 601-266-6050
Fax: 601-266-5797

Neurodevelopmental Biology – Research Technician Position

A research technician position is available in the field of neurodevelopmental biology to assist with studies to:

1. Decipher the T-box transcription factor regulatory network specifying neuronal cell fates (Leal et al., Dev. Biol. 325:138-150, 2009).
2. Undertake microarray analyses to identify target genes regulated by the T-box transcription factor Midline.

Qualifications: A Masters Degree with former training and expertise in molecular biological techniques is preferable, especially if the applicant has experience employing microarray-based approaches. However, an applicant with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Biology and 1-2 years of previous experience employing basic molecular biological techniques including the preparation, manipulation, and analysis of DNA/RNA (sterile technique, media preparation, gel electrophoresis, plasmid preps, vector construction, transformation, and PCR applications including real time PCR and rtPCR) would also be suitable.

The Department of Biological Sciences at The University of Southern Mississippi offers state-of-the-art research facilities supported by the Mississippi Functional Genomics Network. Hattiesburg is a diverse and rapidly growing University community nestled in the "Pine Belt" forest and is located within an hour's drive from the scenic Gulf coast and about two hours from New Orleans.

Interested candidates are encouraged to send a resume and at least three letters of reference to Dr. Sandra Leal.

Dr. Sandra M. Leal
University of Southern Mississippi
118 College Drive, #5018
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
e-mail: sandra.leal@usm.edu
Phone: 601-266-6050
Fax: 601-266-5797

Graduate research assistant positions are available in arthropod molecular biology.

Graduate research assistant positions are available in arthropod molecular biology. The major focus of the lab is in developing control strategies to prevent blood feeding and pathogen-transmission by arthropod ecto-parasites that affect public health and agricultural production using functional genomic and proteomic approaches. Responsibilities include learning and conducting transcriptome and proteome analysis to identify salivary proteins, conducting molecular work such as PCR, cloning, cDNA synthesis, RNAi etc. Prior experience with molecular biology techniques is a must. Excellent organizational, recordkeeping, and computer skills are required. To apply, send 1) a cover letter summarizing your background and interest, and 2) a recent CV, including names and contact information of three references via email to Dr. Shahid Karim (shahid.karim@usm.edu), Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406.