| Works in close collaboration with other PIs, postdocs and technicians on project, especially Drs. Anna Whitfield (NCSU), Tim Sit (NCSU), Guo-Liang (OSU), Peg Redinbaugh (OSU) and Lucy Stewart (USDA), and their research groups. Position Description: Project goals are to: 1) develop and test infectious cDNA clones of maize infecting virus(es) in protoplasts and maize plants; 2) examine biology of leafhopper transmission of maize viruses; 3) mutagenesis to identify gene expression or silencing capacity and gene function; 4) publish results in peer-reviewed journals. 65% Designs and executes rigorous experiments to: - Develop and test full-length and replicons derived from viruses for replication and infectivity in maize plants and protoplasts.
- Examine biology of leafhopper transmission of maize viruses
- Assay gene and sequence function and identify sequence insertion sites for gene expression and virus-induced gene silence by mutagenesis.
20% Analyzes and interprets project data; summarizes progress for monthly project reports; prepares manuscripts. 15% Collaborates and communicates effectively with supervisor, project PIs and collaborators; works cooperatively with other lab members; contributes to the development, archiving, and maintenance of experimental materials, including preparing solutions and buffers required for personal research; maintains plants and viruses associated with project; maintains thorough records that are compliant with project standards and an orderly workspace, and complies with required safety and operating procedures. Education/Experience: A Ph.D. in Virology, Plant Biology, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Entomology, or a closely related field and experience in molecular virology research required. Requires successful completion of a criminal background check. Experience and expertise in developing and manipulating infectious plant virus cDNAs, protoplast inoculation, leafhopper or other insect transmission, and microscopy are highly desirable. Apply: Upload c.v., cover letter, and list of 3 references at https://www.jobsatosu.com/postings/90674. Position open until filled; preferred start date Jan. 2019. | 
