THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE IS AN EQUAL
OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

ANNOUNCEMENT NO: RA-06-077L

POSITION: Research Molecular Biologist (Virologist)

LOCATION: Athens, Georgia

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES: The position is located at the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory in Athens, Georgia. The Unit’s overall mission is to study the pathogenesis of Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease and avian influenza viruses. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying and characterizing genes involved in virulence of Marek’s disease virus, generation of knock out mutant and vector cassette construction. Research will involve measuring humoral and cell mediated immune responses after vaccination and challenge. Work with infected animals and cells will be performed in our BSL-2/3 biocontainment facility. The scientist will be responsible for disseminating research results at scientific meetings and in peer-reviewed scientific publications.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Ph.D. in virology, molecular biology, immunology or a related field is required. A strong background in general molecular genetic techniques including DNA isolation, PCR design and applications, large construct cloning (BAC and Cosmids) and sequencing is necessary. Experience in primary and secondary cell culture and virus propagation is necessary. Knowledge of herpesvirus pathogenesis (particularly Marek’s disease virus), generation of viral recombinants and an interest in animal studies is desirable

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: This position requires the selectee to undergo a pre-employment check and a full background investigation. Any offer made is considered a tentative job offer pending the outcome of the pre-employment check. Retention in the position is based upon a favorable adjudication of the background investigation.

INFORMATION ON APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS is available at: http://www.afm.ars.usda.gov/divisions/hrd/hrdhomepage/vacancy/pd962.html

INFORMATION ON EMPLOYEE BENEFITS is available at:
http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ei61.asp

FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS POSITION OR TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION, CONTACT

Dr. Stephen Spatz, USDA/ARS
Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory
934 College Station Road
Athens , Georgia 30605
Phone: 706-546-3463
Fax: 706-546-3161
Email: sspatz@seprl.usda.gov