A fully funded two-year position for an exceptional graduate student (Master of Science level) is available at the Villari Forest Pathology Lab (http://villarilab.com/), in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia (www.warnell.uga.edu).
The incoming student will pursue research on laurel wilt, a devastating fungal disease that is decimating redbay and threatening other lauraceous species in the Southeastern US, including sassafras and avocado. The project will focus on the use of molecular diagnostic tools (in particular Loop Mediated Isotheral Amplification) to detect the pathogen directly in the field, and on the study of host defense responses and resistance mechanisms. Both molecular and metabolomics approaches will be used during the course of the project. Research work will involve statewide travel (often independently), as well as campus- based research. It will include field, greenhouse, and lab experiments, data and sample collection, data analysis and scientific writing. A valid driving license is required. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and independent person who has good communication skills. A Bachelor of Science degree is required for admission to the MS program. Students with undergraduate degrees in plant pathology, forestry, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, botany, genetics, natural resources or closely related life sciences discipline are particularly encouraged to apply. The research assistantship includes a competitive stipend in accordance with the UGA Warnell School pay scale and a tuition waiver. To be considered for this position, interested candidates are encouraged to directly contact Dr. Caterina Villari ([email protected]) with a single PDF contain (1) statement of interest, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) unofficial transcripts and GRE scores (and TOFEL if appropriate), (3) up to three examples of publications (optional) and (4) contact information for 3 references. In the subject line of the email please follow this example “[your name] – MS Assistantship”. Applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis. Obtaining of the position is contingent upon acceptance into the graduate program of the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. (see https://www.warnell.uga.edu/graduate/future- students/applyinggraduate-school). Admission requirements include minimum 3.0 Undergraduate GPA and 1000 (V+Q) GRE score.
