University College Cork
BIOMERIT Research Centre
Department of Microbiology
Molecular Genetics/Molecular Microbiology/Ecology

Applications are invited for suitably qualified graduates who have a good honours degree in Microbiology or a related subject (e.g. Biochemistry, Genetics, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, etc.) to join this internationally recognized Centre to study bacterial gene function and regulation in environmental genomics.

One study will assess the impact of different agricultural chemical input regimes on rhizosphere microbial diversity and function of commercial crops. Particular focus will be placed on the multitude of interacting, genotypically diverse, microorganisms involved in nitrogen cycling and phosphate utilization. This project includes stipends for two graduate students.

The second project will involve the study of biocontrol and plant growth/soil health supporting bacteria (biofertilisers), as these microorganisms offer significant potential as pesticide and fertiliser alternatives. The research will use a functional genomics approach to investigate the genetic regulation of 2, 4-diacetylphloroglucinol (Phl) production, a broad spectrum biocontrol metabolite produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens strains. Particular focus will be placed on the effects of carbon source, plant root exudates and host-microbe signalling on regulation of Phl production.

Studentships, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and the Environmental Protection Agency include a stipend of €16,000 per annum plus fees.

Applicants should submit a full CV and arrange to have 2 letters of reference sent to:

Fergal O'Gara, BSc PhD DSc MRIA, Professor of Microbiology and BIOMERIT Director,
BIOMERIT Research Centre, Microbiology Department, University College Cork, Ireland.

Tel: +353-21-4272097 Fax: +353-21-4275934 E-mail: f.ogara@ucc.ie