A PhD position is available at the Department o...

A PhD position is available at the Department of Virology, Lindholm, National Veterinary Institute. Project description The studies will focus on the processes of entry and replication of positive stranded RNA viruses within cells. These studies will complement an existing FTP-funded project (recently awarded to Graham J. Belsham and Thomas Bruun Rasmussen) concerning directed attenuation of pestiviruses through specific modification of RNA elements involved in virus replication and will also benefit from international collaborations. The effectiveness of mutations in reducing (but not eliminating) viral replication will be analysed (within a replicon) and those changes which confer the appropriate characteristics will be transferred to full length cDNAs corresponding to the viral genome from which infectious virus can be efficiently rescued. The properties of these mutant viruses will be determined. Experience will be gained in a broad range of molecular biology techniques and virology. Qualifications Candidates should have a master's degree in biological sciences, preferably with a specialisation in molecular biology or virology. The candidate should be fluent in English, written and spoken. The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide. The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The position is available for a period of 3 years. For further information please contact Professor Graham Belsham, phone: +******or Senior scientist Thomas Bruun Rasmussen, phone +******. Application We must have your online application by 30 September 2009. Apply for the position at www.dtu.dk/vacancy - Please open the link "apply for this job online" and fill in the application form and attach your application and CV. Applications must include documentation of a completed master's degree including grades. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.