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

ANNOUNCEMENT NO: RA-04-096L

POSITION: Research Molecular Biologist/Biochemist

LOCATION: St. Louis, MO

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES: The position is in the Plant Genetics Research Unit at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis, MO. The incumbent will conduct research on the biosynthesis of the tocotrienol class of vitamin E, using Arabidopsis as a model system. The research will examine the biochemical properties of homogentisate geranylgeranyl transferase, the enzyme that catalyzes the committed step in the tocotrienol biosynthetic pathway (as described in Nature Biotechnology 21:1082-1087). Studies will also be conducted to determine how flux through the shikimate and isoprenoid pathways contributes to the synthesis of tocotrienols and dictates the total amounts of tocotrienols (and tocopherols) produced in plant cells. The results of these studies will provide the basis for the metabolic engineering of tocotrienol biosynthesis for improved lipid-soluble antioxidant content in seeds of crop plants. Opportunities also exist for the incumbent to examine the effects of enhanced vitamin E antioxidant content on the physiology and environmental stress responses of plants.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Recent Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related biological science is required. Skills in molecular biology are required and skills in biochemistry and analytical chemistry are highly desired. Experience in the use of Arabidopsis as a biochemical model system is preferred.

FOR INFORMATION ON SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, SALARY, BENEFITS, OR APPLICATION FORMS, CONTACT:

Gloria Snipes
Human Resources Specialist
USDA/ARS/Human Resources Division
5601 Sunnyside Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705-5106
Phone: 301-504-1582
Fax: 301-504-1578

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

Dr. Edgar B. Cahoon
USDA/ARS, Plant Genetics Research Unit
Donald Danforth Plant Science Center
975 North Warson Road
St. Louis, MO 63132
Phone: (314) 587-1291
Fax: (314) 587-1391
Email: ecahoon@danforthcenter.org