A postdoctoral position is available immediately to further development of transgenic male-only strains of the New World screwworm that carry conditional early-acting female-lethal and female-transformation genetic systems. This resea
rch builds on our previous work on developing male-only strains and is in collaboration with scientists at USDA-ARS and COPEG.
The fellowship would be at the screwworm research unit in Pacora, which is very close to Panama City. The fellow would be expected to return to the Scott lab in Raleigh for brief periods approximately every six months.
This is a unique opportunity to develop a novel transgenic strain that can be readily assessed for potential for genetic control in the field. Indeed, one of the strains developed by a previous postdoc has been tested under mass rearing conditions and evaluated in an open field release. The eradication of the New World screwworm was the first, and arguably the most successful, insect genetic control program. An efficient transgenic strain could facilitate control of this important pest in countries in which it is endemic and reduce costs for the ongoing program in Panama.
Pacora is a short drive from the Panama city international airport. With the close proximity of the Panama canal and a well-established business community, Panama city offers an exciting lifestyle for the young professional. General information on Panama can be found here. There is a potential for collaboration with scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
Interested candidates with a PhD degree in genetics, entomology or related discipline should apply through the NCSU jobs site. Experience in molecular biology is essential and applicants with experience in insect genetics and embryo microinjection would be preferred. For questions on the project contact Dr. Max Scott, mjscott3@ncsu.edu