  |
 |
Interrelationships between Genomics and Physiology of Environmentally Relevant Microorganisms for Bioremediation 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 Microorganisms play tremendous roles in ecosystem nutrient cycling, bioremediation of contaminants and other important environmental processes. However, because of our inability to culture the majority of organisms in the environment, our knowledge of the details regarding there identity and how these microorganisms function in such roles is often lacking. In general our research focuses on the ecology and interactions of microorganisms in soils and subsurface environments as well as the development and use of molecular methodologies for the study of these microorganisms. Along these lines our projects aim to understand the interrelationships between genomics and physiology of environmentally relevant microorganisms and how to use molecular genomic methods for inferring the functional abilities of microorganisms in the environment. Laboratory Contact: Dr. Christopher Schadt, schadtcw@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 2008. 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 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 Candidates Faculty: Ph.D. in microbiology, physiology, biochemistry, or related field and working familiarity with the use of molecular biology techniques. Must have proven experimental abilities, a commitment to mentoring students, an established record of publication in field, and work well in collaborative environments with students and other researchers. Must also be willing to commit to work at ORNL for an extended period (2-3 summer months, or longer). Students: Students should be working towards a BS in biological sciences and have strong interests in environmental microbiology and experimental research. Must work well in collaboration with faculty, other students, and ORNL researchers. 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 $400/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.
|
Project Descriptions