Research Fellow: RNAi-based tools to unlock functional genomics of obligate oomycete plant pathogens. A postdoc position is available in the Professor Mahmut Tör group at the School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester to work on an NSF-funded project in collaboration with teams at Virginia Tech.
The appointee will deploy state-of-the-art methods to the development of tools for robust, cost-effective of RNAi via application of dsRNA to suspensions of spores, and to optimize these protocols for applicability to a range of downy mildew species.
We will begin by testing whether naked, E. coli-transcribed RNAs (NECT-dsRNAs) are as efficient as short, chemically synthesized dsRNAs (SS-dsRNAs), and we will optimize a variety of parameters that could influence the efficacy of gene silencing.
Our research program focuses on;
- Comparing silencing efficacy of SS-dsRNAs to NECT-dsRNAs and optimize length, dose, and target region of NECT-dsRNAs;
- Quantifying dsRNA internalization;
- Comparing silencing efficacy of “naked” dsRNA and dsRNA protected by E. coli minicells;
- Test efficiency of multiplexed dsRNA to simultaneously silence multiple genes.
Candidates should have a PhD or submitted their thesis in the above-mentioned areas with an excellent record of peer-reviewed publications and strong oral/written communication skills.
For informal queries regarding this role please contact Mahmut Tor, Professor, Chair of Molecular Plant and Microbial Biology on m.tor@worc.ac.uk
| Location: | St John’s Campus |
| Salary: | £37,100 to £41,732 |
| Post Type: | Full Time |
| Contract Type: | Fixed Term – 12 Months |
| Advertised On: | Wednesday 23 August 2023 |
| Closing Date: | Sunday 24 September 2023 |
| Interview Date: | To be confirmed |
| Reference: | SSE2304 |