Agricultural Research Technician
Supervisor:
Ed Vargo
Office:
3309 Gardner Hall
NCSU - Department of Entomology, P.O Box 7613, Raleigh - NC 27695, USA
Phone:
919.515.1662
Fax:
919.515.7746 Position Responsibilities:
- Perform technical duties related to molecular biology and general biology research
- DNA extractions (ethanol, chelex, column membrane, agar excision) and purification (DNA clean-up kits or phenol-chlorophorm)
- PCR and PCR troubleshooting
- Genetic Profiling using STRs and RFLPs
- Setup and operation of Li-Cor 4300 Sequencer
- Genomic Sequencing and analysis
- Microsatellites design and optimization
- Statistical analysis of population genetics, population structure and parentage
- High Throughput Sequencing and Data Analysis of genetic data for the agro-science industry (Dow, Bayer, Syngenta, BASF)
- Pesticides efficacy trials: laboratory experiments and field bioassays
- Stock solutions preparation and titration
- Field collections and laboratory rearing of termites, ants and other insects
- Supervision and coordination of laboratory personnel
- TA for ENT591/791course: "Techniques in Molecular Ecology"
- Lab supplies and chemicals inventory managment
- Web Design
- IT tech support
For more information about the lab, please see the Ed Vargo Website
Publications:
Matsuura, K., E. L. Vargo, K. Kawatsu, P. E. Labadie, H. Nakano, T. Yashiro and K. Tsuji. 2009. Queen succession through asexual reproduction in termites. Science 27 323:1687. PDF File
Brightwell, R.J., Labadie, P.L. and Silverman, J. 2010. Northward expansion of the invasive Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is constrained by winter soil temperatures. Environmental Entomology 39(5):1659-1665. 2010.PDF