The bacteria derived anti-feeding prophage (Afp) is a unique DNA-free, phage-like entity likened to a cell free type 6 secretion system. It is pathogenic to a biological pest, the New Zealand pasture (grass grub) by transporting and delivering a protein toxin to the grass grub larvae. In order to assess the mechanism of Afp assembly and target cell interaction, we are seeking well-qualified and highly motivated candidates for two doctoral student positions. Using structural, molecular and cell biology, the projects seeks to determine and demonstrate the mechanism of Afp cell targeting and toxin delivery to the insect grass grub host.
PhD #1 based at University of Auckland, will be refining aspects of Afp structure, specifically of cell targeting regions and toxin structure, will have an interest in molecular cloning, protein expression, purification cryo electron microscopy and X ray crystallography.
PhD #2 based at AgReserach Lincoln will have an interest in molecular cloning, protein purification, cell biology, microscopy, gene regulation and Afp target cell interaction. Cell lines and insect larvae will be used.
Both PhD positions will be in collaborative dialogue allowing a cross fertilization of projects under the guidance of and Dr Mark Hurst AgResearch Lincoln and Dr Alok K. Mitra, University of Auckland. Fees and a three-year stipend will be provided as part of the New Zealand MBIE endeavour fund contract – “Insect active nano machines”.
For further information, please send a current CV containing 3 referee names and contact to Dr. Alok K. Mitra, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. Tel: +64 09 923 8162, E-mail: a.mitra@auckland.ac.nz, and Dr Mark Hurst Forage Science AgReserach Lincoln, New Zealand Tel +64 03 3259919, E-mail: mark.hurst@agresearch.co.nz.
