Dr M O'Callaghan
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
A postgraduate studentship is available to pursue a PhD on the regulatory cues, cellular release and stability of the main virulence determinant (Yen-TC) from the bacterial species Yersinia entomophaga. The project will be run through the Bio-Protection Research Centre (Lincoln University) and the Soil Biology team at AgResearch, (Lincoln), New Zealand's agricultural Crown Research Institute, with support from Callaghan Innovation's Protein Science and Engineering Team.
Yersinia entomophaga is an insecticidal bacterium that was described as a new species from New Zealand. It is a potent insect pathogen and is under development as a biopesticide for control of some economically significant pests of agricultural and horticultural crops. The bacterium releases large amounts of a highly potent toxin complex (Yen-TC) that is active against several insect species. The project will investigate underlying molecular and physiological mechanisms that determine how various media constituents affect Yen-TC expression, and will seek to define the mechanism of Yen-TC temperature-dependent regulation. This will be facilitated through molecular techniques and the use of reporter systems that may also allow the mechanism of Yen-TC cellular release to be determined. The information will assist in the development of robust Y. entomophaga formulations and products.
The successful candidate will have a strong BSc, Hons or MSc degree in microbiology or molecular biology. Some experience in cell physiology, RT/qPCR and SDS-PAGE would be an advantage. English language proficiency is essential. The studentship, funded by Callaghan Innovation, provides an annual stipend of NZ$25,000 plus payment of domestic tuition fees and research expenses for three years.
To apply, send (i) a cover letter outlining your suitability and interest in the position, (ii) a current curriculum vitae and names of three referees, and (iii) your academic transcripts online via https://careers.sciencenewzealand.org/agresearch
Funding Notes
Annual stipend of NZ$25,000 plus payment of domestic tuition fees and research expenses for three years.
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