Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 106, Number 9, September 1998
ETH Zürich--Professor of Environmental Health
The Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) invites applications for a professorship in environmental health.
The emphasis of research of this chair lies in the area of environment and human health. The incumbent will primarily develop and carry out programs investigating environmental factors influencing human health. These programs will integrate scientific, technological, and sociological data into the process of solving complex problems. Consequently, human exposure to chemical and biological stressors originating from anthropogenic influence on the air, water, and soil and their interactions with the biosphere is to be assessed.
Candidates should have a distinguished scientific record and experience in i SIZWmplementing scientific data, the ability to work transdisciplinarily, and the ability to cope with uncertainties in dealing with prevention. Teaching is expected at all levels within the department of environmental sciences, as well as in other departments.
Applicants should submit a detailed résumé and a list of publications no later than 30 November 1998. The institute especially encourages female candidates to apply with a view towards increasing the proportion of female professors.
Contact: Olaf Kübler, President, ETH Zürich, HG F 59, Rämistrasse 101, ETH Zentrum, CH-8092 Zürich, Switzerland, +41-1-632-20-17, e-mail: kuebler@sl.ethz.ch
Biostatistics Position at the NIEHS
The Biostatistics Branch of the NIEHS in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, is seeking a biostatistician. The level of appointment will be appropriate to the qualifications of the applicant. The successful candidate will assume responsibility for maintaining the statistical integrity of toxicologic research carried out through the NIEHS.
The work will involve collaboration in the design, analysis, and interpretation of experiments, as well as independent statistical research related to methods required by new research initiatives. Such activities may include but are not limited to the following: 1) analysis of the traditional two-year rodent carcinogenesis bioassay and of shorter-term studies with transgenic rodents, 2) methods of analysis for short-term in vitro tests, and 3) methods of analysis for reproductive toxicologic studies.
Applications are invited from persons with a Ph.D. in biostatistics or statistics. Priority will be given to candidates with experience in toxicologic applications, though this is not a requirement. Applications will be accepted until a sufficient number are received, with a first cut-off date of 16 November 1998.
Interested persons should send a curriculum vitae with a statement of research interests and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to the contact address below. NIEHS/NIH is an equal opportunity employer.
For more information on the position, applicants may contact Clarice Weinberg, Chief, Biostatistics Branch, at 919-541-4927, or Joseph Haseman, Director, Statistical Consulting Service, at 919-541-4996.
Contact: Ayn Clayborne, Human Resource Management Branch, NIEHS, Mail Drop EC-11, PO Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 USA, 919-541-2807. Reference: HNV98-19
Postdoctoral Position at the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis
A postdoctoral position is available immediately to study cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in cancer. This project focuses on the role of extracellular matrix proteins on ovarian carcinoma cell adhesion, migration, invasion, and growth. Also underway are projects investigating the role of adhesion molecules in the interaction of ovarian carcinoma cells with mesothelial cells.
The position is for two or three years, with a possibility of renewal. Expertise in tissue culture, cell biology, biochemistry, immunology, protein chemistry, and molecular biology are desired. Applicants should be highly motivated and independent, with solid written and oral communication skills. This position is only open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents, since funding will be provided from an NCI Training Grant. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity employer and educator.
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references, and a brief statement of research interests.
Contact: Amy P.N. Skubitz, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Box 609, UMHC, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0315 USA, e-mail: skubi002@tc.umn.edu
NIEHS Functional Toxicology Group Leader
Applicants with demonstrated expertise in nuclear receptor-based mechanisms of toxicological research are invited to apply for the position of Molecular Toxicologist in the Laboratory of Toxicology at the NIEHS.
The selectee will head a small group that will provide an NIEHS/National Toxicology Program (NTP) focus for the development of bioassays to detect the endocrine activities of environmental agents, and will conduct and coordinate studies to evaluate the biological and functional significance of those endocrine activities. This will involve collaboration with NIEHS intramural and extramural scientists and/or contract management. Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying these endocrine activities will provide the NTP with data for setting study priorities, and will aid in assessment of human exposure and health risks.
This position involves 75% NTP-directed research and 25% independent investigator research. This appointment initially will be made for up to five years; five-year extensions may be approved depending on both sustained high-level performance and continued need for this position. Selectee will receive a salary commensurate with experience and full federal employee benefits.
Candidates must have an M.D., Ph.D., or equivalent, and be a U.S. citizen, resident alien, or nonresident alien with a valid employment-authorized visa. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and bibliography, three letters of reference, and a statement of research interests and accomplishments by 22 September 1998.
Contact: Julie Manyik, Human Resource Management Branch, NIEHS, Mail Drop EC-11, PO Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 USA. Reference: HNV98-18
Postdoctoral Research Opportunities at the NIEHS
Listed below are outstanding opportunities to conduct research with leading scientists in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Eligible applicants must not possess more than five years of postdoctoral experience. To apply, submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, bibliography, and names of three references to the hiring scientist in care of the following address: NIEHS, PO Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 USA. In the cover letter, list the position title and HNV number. Postdoctoral vacancies are accessible on the Internet at http://www.niehs.nih.gov/vacancy/postdoc.htm.
Minorities, women, and handicapped individuals are encouraged to apply. All applicants receive consideration without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation, age (with statutory exceptions), or any other nonmerit factor. Positions are open until filled.
Potassium Channel Regulation by Protein Phosphatase (HNV98-9)
A position is available for molecular biologists or electrophysiologists to participate in molecular studies of potassium channel regulation by protein phosphatases in the mammalian neuroendocrine system. We have identified a novel signal transduction pathway linking neuropeptide receptors to protein phosphatase activity through a pertussis toxin sensitive G-protein and metabolites of arachidonic acid. We have cloned the phosphatase (PP5) and the channel (BKCa) and we are investigating the molecular basis of their regulation.
Contact: David L. Armstrong, Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Mail Drop F2-05, e-mail: armstro3@niehs.nih.gov
Phosphorylation of Novel Zinc Finger Proteins (HNV97-18)
A position is available to study the roles of mitogen-regulated protein phosphorylation on the function and subcellular trafficking of a novel group of zinc finger proteins involved in the regulation of cytokine production in mammalian systems.
A Ph.D. with a strong background in protein chemistry and molecular biology is desired. Experience in the areas of protein phosphorylation experiments in cultured cells and in cell-free protein kinase assays, protein phosphorylation site determination; cell culture and subcellular fractionation techniques, protein separation and analysis techniques, and conventional molecular biology techniques would be helpful.
Contact: Perry Blackshear, Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Mail Drop A2-05, 919-541-4926, fax: 919-541-4571, e-mail: black009@niehs.nih.gov
ETP Position (HNV98-12)
This researcher in the Environmental Toxicology Program will begin and help administer a clinical trial of the effects of oral boron given to postmenopausal women, and will conduct studies in rats aimed at understanding the mechanism of the increased bone strength. The initial appointment is for one year, renewable for up to five years.
Contact: Robert Chapin, Laboratory of Toxicology, Mail Drop B3-05, 919-541-3474, fax: 919-541-4634, e-mail: chapin@niehs.nih.gov
Mitochondrial DNA Replication (HNV97-19)
A position is available to study the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication of human mitochondrial DNA. Research will focus on the in vitro characterization of human mitochondrial DNA replication proteins and to investigate the kinetics of wild-type and mutant forms of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, or biophysical chemistry, and research experience in nucleic acid enzymology and/or protein purification.
Contact: William Copeland, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop E3-01, 919-541-4792, fax: 919-541-7613, e-mail: Copelan1@niehs.nih.gov
Mutagenesis and DNA Repair in Phage T4 (HNV97-22)
This laboratory focuses on basic mechanisms of mutagenesis and DNA repair using the classical phage T4 system. Projects could include investigation of the fidelity of the DNA polymerase and associated proofreading exonuclease by a collaborative analysis of protein structure modulated by engineered changes producing altered mutation rates; or definition by a mysterious epistasis group of a distinct mechanism for surviving DNA damage that involves at least T4 DNA helicase, a Ssb protein. Candidates should have solid grounding in some combination of microbial genetics and enzymology.
Contact: John Drake, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop E3-01, 919-541-3361, e-mail: drake@niehs.nih.gov
Prostaglandins and Related Lipids in Cancer (HNV97-25)
The Eicosanoid Biochemistry Section is studying the expression of prostaglandin H synthases and lipoxygenases in the development of colon, breast, and other cancers, particularly the interaction of prostaglandins and other lipids with the signaling pathways regulating cell growth or apoptosis. The applicant should have a Ph.D., and technical experience in analytical methods, protein biochemistry, and molecular biology. In addition, expertise in cell culture and previous experience with prostaglandin H synthases or lipoxygenases is beneficial.
Contact: Thomas E. Eling, Laboratory of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Mail Drop A2-01, 919-541-3911, fax: 919-541-0146, e-mail: eling@niehs.nih.gov
Molecular Biology of Human Cytochrome P450s (HNV98-11)
Current research is investigating human CYP drug-metabolizing enzymes and the mechanisms of polymorphisms, and site-directed mutagenesis is being used to investigate structure-activity requirements for substrate specificity of the CYP2C enzymes using cDNA expression systems.
Technical experience in molecular genetics including some of the following areas is needed: site-directed mutagenesis and construction of chimeras; use of cDNA expression systems such as bacteria, bacculovirus, or yeast; cloning techniques; genomic analysis; library construction; DNA sequencing; and SSCP. Experience with CYP enzymes and 3-D modeling is helpful. Requires a Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular genetics, or related field.
Contact: Joyce Goldstein, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Chemistry, Mail Drop A3-02, 919-541-4495, fax: 919-541-3647, e-mail: Goldstein@niehs.nih.gov
Two Postdoctoral Positions (HNV98-14)
Two positions will be available around 1 October 1998 to investigate structure-activity requirements for substrate specificity of the CYP2C enzymes using cDNA expression systems in bacteria. Technical experience in molecular genetics and protein biochemistry is needed in the following areas: site-directed mutagenesis and construction of chimeras, use of cDNA expression systems such as bacteria, cloning techniques, DNA sequencing, and protein biochemistry. Experience with molecular modeling techniques and/or CYP enzymes is beneficial. Requires a Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular genetics, microbial genetics, or related field. The initial appointment is renewable for up to five years with a starting salary of at least $26,500, depending on experience.
Contact: Joyce Goldstein, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Chemistry, Mail Drop A3-02, 919-541-4495, fax: 919-541-3647, e-mail: Goldstein@niehs.nih.gov
Protein X-ray Crystallography (HNV98-04)
Two positions are available to carry out structural studies of proteins involved in cell-cell signaling during embryonic development. Candidates should have a strong background in X-ray crystallography, protein biochemistry, and/or molecular biology.
Contact: Traci Hall, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA, 410-614-2533, fax: 410-614-8839, e-mail: hall@groucho.med.jhmi.edu
Cytokine Signaling in Neurodegeneration (HNV98-13)
A position is available to study the role of cytokines, chemokines, and glia cells in chemical-induced neurodegeneration. Ongoing research emphasizes the cellular localization of proinflammatory cytokines and the temporal relationship to early stages of degeneration, and identification of the differential gene expression pattern in susceptible and nonsusceptible neuronal populations. Candidate should be a Ph.D. with a strong background in neurobiology and molecular biology, and experience in both in vivo and cell culture systems.
Contact: Jean Harry, Laboratory of Toxicology, Mail Drop C1-04, 919-541-0927, fax: 919-541-0870, e-mail: harry@niehs.nih.gov
Molecular Neurobiology (HNV94)
The signal transduction pathways regulating the expression of neuropeptide and cytokine genes in neural and glial systems are being investigated. Studies on the effects of neuropeptides on the biosynthesis and release of cytokines in microglial cells and potential roles of cytokines in neurodegeneration will be conducted. Applicants should have experience in neuropharmacology, neurochemistry, or molecular biology.
Contact: Jau-Shyong Hong, Laboratory of Toxicology, Mail Drop E1-01, 919-541-2358, e-mail: Hong3@niehs.nih.gov
Molecular and Cellular Biology (HNV97)
This laboratory is studying the regulation of gene expression during differentiation and the mechanism of action of retinoids, particularly the role of nuclear receptors and other transcriptional factors in the control of gene transcription. Studies involve characterization of promoters of several genes. Applicants must have experience in molecular biology techniques.
Contact: Anton Jetten, Laboratory of Pulmonary Pathobiology, Mail Drop D2-01, 919-541-2768, e-mail: Jetten@niehs.nih.gov
Fidelity of Transcription (HNV98-3)
A position is available to study the fidelity of RNA synthesis on natural and damaged templates. The project will involve work with purified polymerases and nuclear extracts of human cells. Candidate should have a strong background in molecular biology and/or biochemistry. Some experience with RNA and cell culture work is helpful but not essential.
Contact: Thomas Kunkel, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop E3-01, 919-541-2644, fax: 919-541-7613, e-mail: kunkel@niehs.nih.gov
Fellowships in Epidemiology (HNV97-23)
Intramural Research Training Awards are available in the following areas with the corresponding investigators: molecular genetics of cancer (Jack Taylor, Stephanie London), cancer and other chronic diseases (Dale Sandler), reproduction (Allen Wilcox, Donna Baird, Ruth Little), and organochlorine health effects (Matt Longnecker, Walter Rogan). Fellowships last two to five years with starting salaries of $25,000, depending on experience.
Contact: Matthew Longnecker, Environmental Diseases and Medicine Program, Epidemiology Branch, Mail Drop A3-05, 919-541-5118, e-mail: longnecker@niehs.nih.gov
Pharmacological and Biochemical Modeling (HNV97-33)
A research position in pharmacological and biochemical modeling is available. The person in this position will join an existing research team working on the development and validation of biologically based models that can be used for assessing human risk to hazardous environmental agents. The candidate will also help design studies to provide the necessary data for model development. Background in biology/toxicology, statistics, or mathematical modeling is essential.
Contact: Ronald L. Melnick, Laboratory of Computational Biology and Risk Analysis, Mail Drop A3-06, 919-541-4142, fax: 919-541-1479, e-mail: lcbra@pbpk.niehs.nih.gov
Stress-induced Signaling Pathways (HNV98-5)
We are investigating the cellular response to stress, including the stress-signaling pathways that protect against subsequent injury. Our lab is studying preconditioning, a process in which brief intermittent periods of stress reduce lethal injury during a subsequent prolonged period of stress such as ischemia. We are investigating these protective mechanisms in perfused hearts and isolated cells. A second area of research involves investigating signaling pathways involved in apoptosis. Our laboratory is particularly interested in alterations in calcium homeostasis and its role in apoptosis.
Contact: Elizabeth Murphy, Laboratory of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Mail Drop D2-03, 919-541-3873, fax: 919-541-7880, e-mail: murphy1@niehs.nih.gov
Renal Secretory Transport Mechanisms (HNV97-16)
The transport mechanisms responsible for elimination of xenobiotics are studied in epithelial tissues including kidney and choroid plexus. Applicant will examine the mechanisms and energetics of organic anion transport using cultured monolayers, isolated membrane vesicles, and molecular probes. Experience in the biochemistry, molecular biology, or physiology of membrane function is expected. The successful applicant will have a Ph.D. or M.D.
Contact: John B. Pritchard, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Chemistry, Renal Pharmacology Section, Mail Drop F1-03, 919-541-4054, fax: 919-541-5737, e-mail: pritchard@niehs.nih.gov
Calcium Signaling (HNV 97-34)
This position will be available anytime before 1 October 1998. The initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of one- or two-year extensions. This laboratory is interested in mechanisms of calcium signaling in a variety of nonexcitable cell models, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and lymphocytes. We investigate mechanisms of intracellular storage and release of calcium, and mechanisms for regulation of calcium movements across the plasma membrane.
Although applicants with training in any related area of research will be considered, we are particularly interested in individuals with prior training in the areas of either electrophysiology or molecular biology of ion channels. Individuals coming to the laboratory with one of these skills would have the opportunity to expand their training into new areas including molecular biology, electrophysiology, single cell microfluorimetry, and confocal microscopy.
Contact: James W. Putney, Calcium Regulation Section, Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Mail Drop F2-02, 919-541-1420, fax: 919-541-1898, e-mail: putney@niehs.nih.gov
DNA Metabolism and At-risk Sequences (HNV97-20)
The genome of any organism contains unstable DNA sequence motifs that are considered at-risk. Examples that we have pursued include replication slippage between small repeats, inverted repeat stimulated deletion and recombination, mutation in homonucleotide runs, and the role of mismatch repair. The project will investigate structure-function relationships for yeast and human proteins involved in replication and mismatch repair and interactions with at-risk motifs in the genome in order to further our understanding of spontaneous and induced genome changes. It is a unique collaborative effort that benefits from yeast molecular genetics and exquisitely sensitive yeast model systems (Resnick lab), and expertise in biochemistry and structural molecular biology (Kunkel lab), as well as the NIEHS state-of-the-art structural biology facility. Applicants must have experience in molecular biology and genetics and have a Ph. D. in areas related to molecular biology, genetics, or biochemistry.
Contact: Michael A. Resnick, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop D3-01, 919-541-4480, e-mail: resnick@niehs.nih.gov
Human Gene Isolation (HNV97-32)
This laboratory has developed novel approaches for the direct isolation of human genes and chromosomal regions from total genomic DNA relevant to human health and directions of the Human Genome Project. Research will focus on expanding the recombination-based methods used for specific isolation, understanding the mechanisms, and improving several factors including sensitivity, fidelity, and efficiency. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in genetics, biochemistry, or molecular biology. Salary starts at $25,000 and depends on number of years of relevant postdoctoral experience.
Contact: Michael A. Resnick, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop D3-01, 919-541-4480, e-mail: resnick@niehs.nih.gov
Mechanisms by which Organisms Produce Mutations (HNV99)
Studies are aimed at understanding the mechanisms by which organisms produce mutations. Specific projects involve the isolation and molecular characterization of antimutator mutants in E. coli, the genetic and biochemical analysis of DNA replication fidelity in this organism, and a structure-function analysis of the dnaE and dnaQ genes (encoding, respectively, the DNA polymerase and exonucleolytic proofreading activity).
Contact: Roel M. Schaaper, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Mail Drop E3-01, 919-541-4250, e-mail: Schaaper@niehs.nih.gov
Determination of Epitopes on HIV Proteins by Mass Spectrometry (HNV97-15)
Mass spectrometry combined with proteolysis reactions and chemical protection assays is being used to identify epitopes on HIV proteins, especially rgp120, recognized by monoclonal antibodies. Candidates should have expertise in protein, glycoprotein, and immunochemistry. Experience in mass spectrometry is not required.
Contact: Kenneth Tomer, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Mail Drop F0-03, 919-541-1996, fax: 919-541-0220, e-mail: tomer@niehs.nih.gov
Role of FXR in Cell Growth Control (HNV98-6)
Studies are aimed at the potential role of the nuclear receptor FXR in hepatocarcinogenesis. Although farnesoids were originally identified as FXR activators, various liver cell growth suppressors have been recently characterized as effector molecules. The mechanism by which liver carcinogens interfere with FXR-dependent transcription will be explored. An animal with a disrupted FXR gene will be used to facilitate the isolation of farnesol-regulated genes. A Ph.D. with a strong background in carcinogenesis and demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques is desired.
Contact: Cary Weinberger, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology, Mail Drop E4-05, 919-541-1355, fax: 919-541-0696, e-mail: weinber1@niehs.nih.gov
Ion Channel Physiology (HNV98-20)
A position is available immediately to study ligand-gated nicotinic ACh and/or serotonin 5-HT3 receptor channels in hippocampal brain slices, cultured neurons, and/or clonal cell lines. The role these channels play in regulating hippocampal neuronal activity is investigated, as well as how intracellular signal transduction pathways (i.e., phosphorylation, Ca2+) modulate the physiological properties of these channels. Preference will be given to applicants interested in studying how these ion channels regulate synaptic transmission and plasticity in the brain. Applicants must have electrophysiological (preferably patch-clamp) experience, expertise in calcium imaging, and/or molecular biological techniques.
Contact: Jerrel Yakel, Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Mail Drop F2-08, 919-541-1407, fax: 919-541-1898, e-mail: Yakel@niehs.nih.gov, Internet: http://dir.niehs.nih.gov/dirlst/yakel.htm
Cytochrome P450 Enzymes (HNV97-12)
A position is available in the Clinical Studies Section of the Laboratory of Pulmonary Pathobiology to study the regulation and functional significance of novel cytochrome P450 enzymes that metabolize fatty acids in extrahepatic tissues. Applicants should possess a Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field, and have expertise in molecular cloning, promoter analysis, and gene regulation.
Contact: Darryl Zeldin, Laboratory of Pulmonary Pathobiology, Mail Drop D2-01, 919-541-1169, fax: 919-541-4133, e-mail: Zeldin@niehs.nih.gov
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Last Update: August 19, 1998
