Post-Doctoral Researcher
PROJECT: Plant Sex and the Evolution of Plant Defenses Against Parasites LOCATION: Department of Plant Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC, USA DESCRIPTION: The Johnson Lab (www.evoeco.org) in the Department of Plant Biology at North Carolina State University seeks a Post-Doctoral researcher to work on an NSF funded project examining how a loss of sexual reproduction in plants influences phenotypic and molecular evolution of defenses against plant parasites (insect herbivores and fungal pathogens). This work focuses on the evening primrose genus Oenothera which has experienced over 20 independent transitions between sexual and functionally asexual reproduction. We have recently shown that these repeated losses of sex have lead to the evolution of increased susceptibility to generalist herbivores and decreased susceptibility to specialist herbivores. We are now testing theoretical predictions about how a loss of sex influences the molecular evolution of plant defense genes as well as the expression of resistance traits functionally related to these genes. Consistent with the strengths and interests of the successful applicant, there will be the opportunity to contribute to multiple aspect s of the project. These include the cloning, sequencing and expression analysis of plant defense genes; field work in North and South America; phytochemical analysis by HPLC-MS, and the use of comparative phylogenetic and population genetic tools for the analysis of various types of molecular and phenotypic data. Consideration will be given to all candidates with expertise in ecology and/or evolution and applicants with experience conducting both molecular and field work are particularly encouraged to apply. START DATE: September 1st, 2009, but this is negotiable. The position is for 24 months, with a possible extension contingent on funding. Starting salary will be commensurate with experience; the position includes medical insurance and benefits. APPLICATION: Applicants should send a covering letter, curriculum vitae and contact details for three or more references to Dr. Marc Johnson ([email protected]) in the Department of Plant Biology at North Carolina State University. DAILY LIFE: North Carolina State University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina's state capital. The university is conveniently located 30 minutes or less from UNC Chapel Hill, Duke University, the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent), and the Research Triangle Park. Raleigh is a culturally diverse city with excellent restaurants, parks, museums and theaters. The city is conveniently located 2 hours from both the ocean and the mountains. **************************** Marc Johnson, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Plant Biology North Carolina State University Box 7612, Raleigh NC 27695 U.S.A. Phone: 919-515-0478, Fax: 515-3436 www.evoeco.org ****************************
