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Ridge National Laboratory Biosciences Division Designing Microbial Consortia for Cellulose Degradation Requesting applications from science or engineering faculty members at institutions serving students underrepresented in science, engineering, mathematics and technology to work on the following projects at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Project Description In soils, termites and ruminants, a community of microorganisms degrades plant lignin and cellulose. This project will use characterized bacteria, archaea and fungi to create simple microbial communities in the laboratory, to convert plant biomass into biochemical feedstocks. We will characterize community composition using molecular biology and microscopy techniques, while chromatography, electrochemistry and colorimetric analyses will be used to study pertinent biochemical processes. Analyses of these simple systems will help identify carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and phosphorus fluxes within cellulolytic communities, serving as a model for producing renewable biofuels and bioproducts. Laboratory contact: Dr. David E. Graham, grahamde@ornl.gov Applicants’ Responsibilities and Relationship to Project Applicants will receive support under the Department of Energy Faculty Student Team Research Program (FaST) to work collaboratively with the project research team at the Laboratory for up to 10 weeks during the summer of 2010. The exact appointment period in the time frame of June to August will be scheduled by mutual agreement between the host divisions at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the successful applicant. Faculty will be expected to identify two to three students from their campuses to participate in the FaST program. The faculty member will provide some mentorship to students during the summer research activities. The faculty and students must participate as a group and serve their appointments concurrently. It is expected that the faculty member and the students become an integral part of the research team working on this project and that opportunities for continued collaboration may be identified. Qualifications of Ideal Candidate Faculty: Graduate degree in microbiology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, molecular ecology or related field. Familiar with molecular biology and general chemistry techniques. Must have demonstrated ability to design and perform experiments, working with a diverse group of students and researchers. Interest in developing problem-based teaching and group learning techniques desired. Excellent communication skills and enthusiasm for learning and teaching required. Must also be willing to commit to work at ORNL for an extended period (2-3 summer months, or longer). Students: Students should be pursuing an undergraduate degree in biological or chemical sciences, with a strong interest in experimental microbiology, biological chemistry, or biotechnology. Must work well individually and in groups with students, faculty and researchers from diverse backgrounds. Willing to work at ORNL for an extended period. Support and Financial Commitments The successful candidate will receive a stipend based on the academic salary, travel expenses to and from the Laboratory, and a housing allowance. Students recommended by the faculty member for participation in the program will receive a stipend of $425/week for each week at the Laboratory, plus a housing allowance, and reimbursement for transportation expenses to and from the ORNL. Funds are provided for this program from the US Department of Energy, Office of Science in partnership with the National Science Foundation, from ORNL, and from other sources.
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