Center for Infectious Disease Research and Vaccinology

South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota

Research Assistant Professor

Salary/Benefits: $44,000-$46,000/year plus fringe benefits, depending on qualifications and experience. 

Location: South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota

General Statement of Function: To conduct basic and translational research on enteric infectious disease, 100% time commitment. Rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.  Continuation of employment and rank advancement will be dependent on the development of an independent, extramurally funded research program. 

Principle Duties: To carry out cutting-edge basic and translational research on infectious diseases, with a focus on molecular pathogenesis of enteric disease, and construction and expression of recombinant proteins in vaccine development.  This new faculty member will focus on enterotoxigenic E. coli and related pathogens with the goal of developing vaccines for livestock and human beings.  He/she will also conduct research to elucidate more clearly the role of putative virulence factors in infectious disease.  The successful candidate will be a part of a focused research group addressing E. coli diarrheal diseases and will complement the existing expertise within that group.  She/he will conduct research already contracted through existent grants, yet is expected to develop her/his own research program through pursuit of independent and/or collaborative extramural funding.  From time to time, the new faculty member will be expected to participate in the educational mandate of the department and CIDRV through supervision of undergraduate and graduate students as well as participation in individual or team-taught undergraduate and graduate courses. 

Supervisory Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to supervise and train undergraduate researchers, graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and research technicians. 

Minimum Qualifications (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skill, Aptitude):

• Earned PhD or Equivalent in a field of the biological Sciences with emphasis in training on Molecular Biology
• Minimum 2 years post-doctoral training.
• Must have experience and interest in molecular pathogenesis of bacteria and antigen expression, particularly on gene manipulation, and chimeric gene construction and expression
• Knowledge and expertise in plant genetics.
• Evidence of successful scholarly research in topic appropriate to this position
• Ability to communicate and interact effectively with research colleagues, students, and the public
• Willingness to collaborate with existing research within the CIDRV

Desired Qualifications:

• Expertise in cloning and expressing virulence determinants of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli

• Expertise in the construction of hybred genes for the expression of hybred proteins. 

• Laboratory management

• Several years of working experience in the biotechnology industry

• Familiarity with transgenetic plant technology

Institutional Location: South Dakota State University and the Center for Infections Disease Research and Vaccinology are located in Brookings, South Dakota, a community of approximately 18,500 in east-central South Dakota.  The city has an excellent K-12 education system, is accessible to major medical facilities, has an active cultural and social environment, and has been ranked highly in recent surveys of small university towns in the United States. 

Application Procedure:  Submit curriculum vitae; statement of relevant experience, and the names and addresses of three professional references by postal service to:

                        David H. Francis, Ph.D.

                       Veterinary Science Department

                        Box 2175, North Campus Drive

South Dakota State University

Brookings, SD  57007-1396 

Applications accepted until December 1, 2004 or until a suitable candidate is found. Inquiries may be addressed to Dr. Francis by phone (605-688-5680) FAX (605-688-6003) or e-mail (david.francis@sdstate.edu). Only candidates who have submitted all required application materials will be considered for the position. 

South Dakota State University is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its faculty, staff and students.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.  Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made at 605-688-4493/TTY (605) 688-4394.