Internal Ref # Title of Research Project: 1 The function ... · The function of miRNAs in tomato...

Program for Postdoctoral Fellowship Awards in Agriculture 2013-2014

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1 Title of Research Project:

The function of miRNAs in tomato fruit development and ripening

Project Leader:

Tzahi Arazi

Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683498

Institute: ARO Volcani Center

Department: Institute of Plant Sciences

The research team (other scientists):

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Fruit development and ripening are processes unique to plant species and thus can provide novel insights regarding plant developmental regulatory mechanisms. Still, the regulation of their development and ripening in not fully understood. Indeed, recent sequencing of small RNAs from tomato fleshy fruit demonstrated that numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in its developing and ripening pericarp. MiRNAs are master regulators of plant development through post-transcriptional regulation of target mRNAs often with regulatory functions, such as transcription factors. We have found that several miRNAs are expressed in tomato fruit, and target several classes of transcription factors during its development. In addition, we developed various tools to probe miRNA functions in the fruit. This project aims to investigate the role of these miRNAs and corresponding targets in fruit development and ripening.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education:

Ph.D.

Scientific Experience:

Postdoc in plant molecular biology

Abilities and Skills:

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Identification and genetic mapping of disease resistance genes in bread wheat

Project Leader: Dr. Roi Ben-David Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683681

Institute: Institute of Plant Sciences ARO-Volcani Center

Department: Department of Agronomy and Natural Resources

The research team (other scientists): Prof. Amos Dinoor (Department of Plant

Pathology and Microbiology, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and

Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot)

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines):

The bread wheat cultivar Arina was found to be resistance to 4 Israeli powdery

mildew isolates. An RIL mapping population of ArinaxForno (susceptible cv.) was

previously used to construct a genome-wide genetic map and will be used to

genetically characterize the resistance mechanism. In addition the RIL population

will be screened for rust resistance in the field (Yellow, Leaf and stem rusts).


Solid back ground in genetics, plant science and Molecular biology.

Knowledge in Phytopathology and cereal genomics is also recommended.


Genotyping with molecular markers, running large scale experiments, basic

experience in growing plants in the field and good computer skills.


Independent, hardworking, motivated and curious.

mailto:[email protected]

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3 Title of Research Project: Olive tree’s response for macronutrients

availability

Project Leader: Dr. Arnon Dag Email : [email protected]

Phone :972-8-9928630

Institute: Gilat Research Center, Plant Sciences

Department: Fruit Tree Sciences

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Uri Yermiyahu (ARO), Dr. Alon Ben-Gal

(ARO), Dr. Zohar Kerem (HUJI)

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): In this project we are following

the response of intensively cultivated olive trees to irrigation with different level

of macronutrients (via fertilizers / recycled water treatment). We will have a

multidisciplinary approach in which we will follow soil properties, olive tree’s

physiological response, productivity, oil yield and quality. This comprehensive

approach will allow us to optimize the fertilization regime while minimizing

costs, and environmental hazards and maximizing productivity and product

quality.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education:Ph. D. in biology / soil sciences / agronomy

Scientific Experience:Working in fruit trees physiology / plant nutrition

Abilities and Skills:Fluent English, experience in physiological measurement or / and soil physics and chemistry


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4 Title of Research Project: Molecular characterization of Sweetpotato storage root formation

Project Leader:

Dr. Nurit Firon


Phone : 972-50-6220735

Institute: The Volcani Center, Agricultural Research Organization.

Department: Institute of Plant Sciences, Dept. of Vegetable Research.



The most economically important physiological process in sweetpotato production is

storage root development. Sweetpotatoes are commercially propagated through

vegetative cuttings. These cuttings produce adventitious roots that give rise to either

fibrous- or storage-roots. The aim of the study is to characterize genes that regulate

the induction of storage root formation, using the anatomical and molecular tools

developed recently in our laboratory.


Scientific Experience: Plant molecular biology. Plant physiology.


Fluent English (reading & writing).


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5 Title of Research Project: Dual role of the TYLCV protein V2 in suppressing the host plant defense

Project Leader: Yedidya Gafni Email : [email protected]

Phone : 968-3-9683471

Institute: Plant Sciences

Department: Vegetable Research

The research team (other scientists): Prof. Vitaly Citovsky, NY., Prof. Abraham

Loyter, Hebrew University.

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): TYLCV-Is is a major tomato pathogen. We have identified a TYLCV-Is protein, V2,

which acts as a suppressor of RNA silencing by interacting with SGS3, a component of

the plant silencing machinery. We now want to elaborate on the mechanism(s) by which

V2 is acting in suppressing the host antiviral defense.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist:

Education: Ph.D. in plant biology /plant virology

Scientific Experience: The candidate should have experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and plant virology



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6 Title of Research Project: Regulation of plant water balance by

sugar metabolism

Project Leader: David Granot Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683792

Institute: Plant Sciences, The Volcani Center


The research team (other scientists): Rakefet David Schwartz; Gilor Kelly, Ofer

Stein, Shlomo Goren. Collaborators: Menachem Moshelion, Sarah Assmann


We discovered novel roles for sugar metabolism genes in the regulation of

stomata and water transport via aquaporins. Opposite to previous knowledge,

sugar close stomata and minimize water loss. The molecular and physiological

studies are performed with tomato and Arabidopsis plants.

These new results are not yet in press, but our other studies on sugar metabolism

genes (hexokinases and fructokinases) and sugar sensing were published.


Education: Plant physiology and molecular biology.

Scientific Experience: Gene cloning, Gene expression analyses, Plant physiology

Abilities and Skills: Good personal interaction, Good English, Highly motivated, Good learning capabilities.


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7 Title of Research Project: The Genetics of Pod-Filling in Peanut under Water-Limiting

Conditions

Project Leader: Ran Hovav Email : [email protected]

Phone : +972-3-9683682


Department: Field Crops



Pod-filling in peanut has a significant genetic component, since cultivars are considerably

varied in their pod-fill and seed-fill potential. Here, we suggest to (1) analyze the genetic

components that control pod-filling and seed-filling processes in polyploid peanut and (2)

to correlate these to specific water stress conditions. Our genetic infrastructure comprises

segregating populations derived from independent crosses between elite peanut cultivars

with high pod-fill potential and breeding lines with poor pod-filling potential. Initially,

global and homeolog-specific mRNA expression will be detected by applying deep

sequencing technology on developing seeds, seed coats, and pericarps derived from the

parent lines grown on different water regimes. Also, the relationships between whole

genome duplication, homeolog-specific mRNA expression and metabolite accumulation

in developing pods and seeds will be evaluated. In the second part of the project, genetic

analysis and molecular mapping of pod fill, seed fill and other pod quality traits will be

done on the populations by locus-specific SNP markers.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: Ph.D. in plant genetics or plant molecular biology

Scientific Experience: Solid background in basic molecular biology is required. Candidates with strong quantitative skills are most highly desired.


The ideal applicant will be highly motivated, a strong academic record, research

experience in the plant biological sciences, and fluent English language skills. Previous

experience with high-throughput genetics and/or molecular biology is preferred.


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8 Title of Research Project: Studies on the biological role of strigolactones, the new plant hormones, in tomato development: genetic and physiological analysis of new mutants.

Project Leader:

Dr. Hinanit Koltai


Phone : 972-3-9683039

Institute: ARO, Volcani Center

Department: Plant Sciences


Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): The research will be focused on studies on the biological role of strigolactones, the new plant hormones, in tomato development. New tomato mutants will be studies using genetic and physiological tools. The research is expected to identify new components of strigolactones signal transduction, and lead to a better understanding of strigolactones regulation on plant development.


Education: PhD

Scientific Experience: Plant molecular biology and physiology

Abilities and Skills: Precision, background in statistics, will and ability for a dedicated work


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9 Title of Research Project: Elucidation of the interactions between

TYLCV-resistance genes in tomato and the virus.

Project Leader: Dr. Moshe Lapidot Email :[email protected]

Phone :+972-3-50-6220568

Institute: Plant sciences

Department:Vegetable research

The research team (other scientists):Dr. Ilan Levin, Dr. Moshe Reuveni


Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is one of the most devastating viruses of

cultivated tomatoes. The genes responsible for TYLCV-resistance in tomato,

known as Ty-1, Ty-3 and Ty-5, have been recently identified. Our objective is to

characterize the interactions between the tomato encoded resistant genes (and

their protein products) and with the viral genes and protein products.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education:Plant

molecular biology, virology.

Scientific Experience:Experienced in plant molecular biology techniques with sufficient background in virology.

Abilities and Skills:PCR and quantitative PCR,protein analyses on a whole plant

basis, two-hybrid system. Good communication skills in English are essential


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10 Title of Research Project: Fine mapping, functional analysis and pyramiding of genes controlling

begomovirus resistance in tomato.

Project Leader: Dr. Ilan Levin Email : [email protected]

Phone : +972-50-6220475

Institute: Plant sciences

Department: Vegetable research

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Moshe Lapidot, Dr. Moshe Reuveni


Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is one of the most devastating viruses of

cultivated tomatoes and poses increasing threat to tomato production worldwide.

Our main objective is to identify and functionally characterize genes which

control resistance to TYLCV


Molecular genetics or molecular biology

Scientific Experience: Experienced in molecular biology techniques with sufficient background in genetics

Abilities and Skills: Capable to carry out gene cloning, as well as PCR, RT-PCR and

protein analyses on a whole plant basis. Good verbal and communication skills

in English are essential


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Rootstock-scion Interaction in Grape: potential role of plant hormone and hormone signaling in communication

Project Leader: Dr. Etti Or Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683345

Mobile: 972-506-220345

Institute: Volcani Center, ARO

Department: Fruit tree sciences

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Project will be part of the program "Rootstock-scion Interaction in Grape: Omics prespective". Cabernet sauvignon grafted on two contrasting

rootstock will be studied. A comparative analysis is planned of plant hormone signaling components that represent potential important player in rootstock-scion communication. The project will combine physiology, bioinformatics, expression analyses, hormone quantization, metabolite profiling and transgenic analyses

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: PhD in biology (preferred plant biology)

Scientific Experience: Molecular background is required. Experience in tissue culture, microscopy, plant physiology is preferred.

Abilities and Skills: Communication ability in English, operation of Microsoft office standard software and internet sequence databases


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12 Title of Research Project: Regulation of berry size and cluster uniformity

Project Leader: Dr. Etti Or Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683345

Mobile: 972-506-220345

Institute: Volcani Center, ARO

Department: Fruit tree sciences

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Size uniformity among berries in the cluster is a function of initial flower load and fruit-set percentage. Experimental system tat allow synchronized fruit set will be used to follow relationship between carbohydrate availability and size diversity and comparative analysis of small and big berries will be carried out to identify factors that are controlled by competition and are involved in regulation of berry size. The project will combine physiology, bioinformatics, expression analyses, hormone quantization and transcriptomic analyses.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: PhD in biology (preferred plant biology)

Scientific Experience: Molecular background is required. Experience in tissue culture, microscopy, plant physiology is preferred.

Abilities and Skills: Communication ability in English, operation of Microsoft office standard software and internet sequence databases


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Analysis of developmental and environmental induced changes in the transcriptomes of higher-plants mitochondria by directional sequencing methods

Project Leader:

Dr. Oren Ostersetzer-Biran


Phone : +972-3-968-3397

Institute: Inst. of Plant Sciences



The use of high throughput sequencing (“RNA-seq”) has extended from human and other eukaryotes to bacteria and recently to plastids as well, where it has clarified operon structures, gene annotations and also led to the discovery of non-coding and “small RNAs”. High-resolution genome-wide transcriptome mapping approaches have not been applied in a systematic fashion to plant mitochondria. Thus, we anticipate that new paradigms will emerge by using these methods with mitochondria.


Education: M.Sc. or Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology or related field in Plant

Sciences, from a university or an internationally recognized accrediting organization

Scientific Experience: The Visiting Scientist Preferred

Qualifications:

Research experience in RNA/protein biochemistry and molecular biology as it relates to gene expression in plant / bacteria / organelles.

Experience in studies of macromolecular (RNA-RNA, protein-RNA, proteinprotein) interactions using a variety of modern techniques.



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Genetic and molecular regulation of shoot architecture and

flowering time in pepper

Project Leader: Ilan Paran Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683943

Institute: Plant Science




We study the genetic control of pepper shoot architecture and flowering time by

using induced EMS- mutants. The mutants are characterized and the genes

controlling the phenotypes are isolated by map-based cloning and use of

candidate genes and comparison to homologous mutants in model plant species.


Education: PhD

Scientific Experience: Plants genetics, molecular biology

Abilities and Skills: Good English writing and speaking skills


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Understanding the basis of peel disorders in citrus

Project Leader:

Avi Sadka


Phone :972-3-9683343

Institute: Plant Science

Department: Fruit Trees Sciences

The research team (other scientists): Ron Ofir, Itamar Lansky (Bar Ilan), Extension

Service people.


Peel splitting is one of major disorders in citrus, and it might result in a heavy

yield loss. The problem has probably a genetic background, but it is also affected

by external conditions. The aim of the research is to identify both endogenous

and exogenous factors which play a role in generating the disorder. The research

would combine molecular, physiological and biochemical work, and it would

also require some field work.


PhD in biology\Ag Sciences


Expertise in molecular biology, and physiological work. Alternatively, experience in data mining and analysis.


In addition to lab work, willingness to spend time in the field.


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The cross talk of auxin and the acto-myosin system during adventitious root formation in woody and herbaceous plants

Project Leader: Einat Sadot Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683510

Institute: The Institute of Plant Sciences

Department: Ornamental Horticulture



Adventitious roots are formed from none root tissues in four steps; cell

dedifferentiation, cell division, primordia differentiation and root emergence.

Auxin plays a major role in each of these steps. Our studies using Eucalyptus

grandis and Arabidopsis thaliana as woody and herbaceous model plants

respectively, suggest the involvement of the acto-myosin system in the early

stages of adventitious root formation.


Education: PhD in Plant Sciences

Scientific Experience: Molecular biology

Abilities and Skills: Good English


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Molecular and biochemical characterization of potato skin as a model for studying wound healing and stress response in agricultural important crops.

Project Leader:

Idit Ginzberg


Phone :+972-3-9683787

Institute: Plant Sciences, the Volcani Center

Department:Vegetable Research



Potato skin is a protective tissue with suberized cell walls and toxic secondary

metabolites such as steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs). Histological, metabolomic,

RNA-sequence and transgenic technologies are applied in an effort to control skin

quality and to reduce harmful SGAs in food upon changing climate conditions.

Knowledge gained would be applicable for other crops as well.


PhD


Actual practice in molecular Biology and tissue culture methods for at least two years.

Knowledge in bioinformatic applications is desirable.


Good English writing and speaking skills, good collaboration with other lab

members, dedication to research work.


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1. Plant-microbe interactions: mycorrhizal symbiosis in

agronomical crops, rhizosphere biology

2. Genetic and physiology of plant root architecture:

utilization of nutrients,

3. Management of the parasitic plants in crop roots

Project Leader:

Prof. Yoram Kapulnik


Phone : 972-3-9683461

Institute: ARO, Volcani Center

Department: Plant Sciences



The research will be focused on studies on symbiosis systems: the

Plantmicrobe interactions of mycorrhizal symbiosis in agronomical crops in

relation to rhizosphere biology. Also, aspects of genetic and physiology of

plant root architecture will be studied in relation to utilization of nutrients

and in relation to management of the parasitic plants in crop roots


Education: PhD

Scientific Experience: Plant molecular biology and physiology

Abilities and Skills: Precision, background in statistics, will and ability for a dedicated work


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Molecular basis of the fruit softening process during the fig (Ficus carica)

fruit ripening and senescence

Project Leader:

Dr. Moshe Flaishman


Phone : 972-3-9683394


Department: Fruit Tree Sciences



Fig (Ficus carica L.) fruit undergoes rapid softening during ripening, a process that

involves changes in the solubility and degradation of the cell wall. Using 454 technology

we isolated and characterized up and down regulated of many genes during the ripening

process.

To further analyzed those genes we will use:

a. bioinformatics analysis,

b. functional analysis by transformation, of antisense and over expression, of fig genes

followed by in situ hybridization of selected genes in fig fruit.

c. total RNA seg of fig fruits exposed to different treatments during ripening.


Education: PhD. student graduated in Plant molecular biology Scientific Experience: bioinformatics analysis; plant transformation, plasmid construction,

RNA isolation, plant genetics, plant biology, plant anatomy, in situ hybridization

Abilities and Skills: English writing and speaking capabilities


POSTHARVEST & FOOD SCIENCE

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20

Title of Research Project: Factors influencing browning of rachis of

table grape after harvest using auto fluorescence

Project Leader: Dr Amnon Lichter Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683684

Institute: Institute of Postharvest and Food Sciences

Department: Postharvest Science

The research team (other scientists): Dr Delila Beno


Rachis of table grapes suffer from browning during storage. We have used image

analysis to follow the effect of postharvest conditions and the effect of plant

growth regulators on deterioration of the rachis. We intend to use portable auto

fluorescence device to follow chlorophyll degradation and flavonol accumulation

and to use postharvest treatments to reduce the problem.


Education: PhD in agricultural sciences

Scientific Experience: General

Abilities and Skills: Computer skills and basic knowledge in statistical analysis


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Delivery of Beneficial Nutraceutic Compounds within Edible Coatings of Food

Product

Project Leader:

Dr Elena Poverenov


Phone : 972-39683354

Institute: Agricultural Research Organization (ARO) Volcani Center

Department: Food Quality and Safety

The research team (other scientists): Prof. Betty Schwartz. The School of Nutritional Sciences; Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science

and Nutrition; The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment; The Hebrew

University of Jerusalem


Original food sources of numerous beneficial natural compounds - neutraceuticals - cannot be

consumed by people with limitations of digestive system. We plan to incorporate essential

neutraceuticals (provitamins and polyphenols) to rationally designed edible coatings of gentle and

widely available food such as mushrooms. Edible coatings also defense nutraceuticals from

metabolic destruction, improve their bioavailability and extend their product shelf life and safety.


Education:

Ph.D in Food Science

Scientific Experience: Analytical Chemistry, Basic knowledge of nutritional sciences

Abilities and Skills: Knowledge of GC, HPLC, FPLC, and basic assays of in vitro

availability


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22

Title of Research Project: Development of Safe Materials for Smart Food Packing Using

Covalent Linkage of Antimicrobial Reagents

Project Leader:

Dr Elena Poverenov


Phone :

972-39683354

Institute: Agricultural Research Organization (ARO) Volcani Center




Microbial attacks on significantly decrease food availability, while intensive addition of

antimicrobial agents causes health problems, environmental pollution and microbial resistances. In

our laboratory we develop new "contact active materials" with covalently bound antimicrobial

agents. Such materials defense food from pathogen attack, but they are safe to human since

antimicrobial agent does not consumed and remained captured on the surface.


Education:

Ph.D in Food Chemistry or Chemistry

Scientific Experience: Synthetic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry.

Abilities and Skills: Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization methods and basic assays of

in vitro activity.


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Food Safety – Desiccation tolerance in Salmonella

Project Leader:

Prof. Shlomo Sela (Saldinger)


Phone :972-3-9683750

Institute: The Volcani Center, ARO


The research team (other scientists): 1 postdoc, 1 PhD student, 3 MSc students


Recent outbreaks of salmonellosis following consumption of dry foods have

attracted attention to the mechanisms by which this foodborne pathogen adapts

to low-water environments. In a recent study we have identified a number of

genes whose expression is differentially regulated during dehydration of the

bacteria. The aim of this project is to study the role of these genes in the

development of desiccation tolerance and cross-tolerance to other stresses the

pathogen encounters in the food-chain. The research employs molecular

microbiology techniques, such as site-specific mutagenesis, basic bioinformatics

and standard microbiological procedures.


Education:PhD in Microbiology; Food Microbiology, Clinical Microbiology


Background in Microbial genetics, Molecular Microbiology. Bacteriological

methods, cloning, site-specific mutagenesis, qPCR. Fluorescent/confocal

Microscopy.


Fluent English. Ability to write proposals and manuscripts


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Food-Safety: Salmonella – plant interactions

Project Leader:

Prof. Shlomo Sela (Saldinger)


Phone :972-3-9683750

Institute: The Volcani Center, ARO




Recent studies have demonstrated the ability of the foodborne pathogen

Salmonella enterica to infect and colonize plants as part of its life cycle outside the

mammalian host. The aim of the present study is to identify Salmonella virulence

factors which contribute to the fitness of the pathogen on plants. The research

employsmolecular microbiology techniques, such as site-specific mutagenesis,

basic bioinformatics and standard microbiological procedures.


Education:PhD in Microbiology; Food Microbiology, Clinical Microbiology


Background in Microbial genetics, Molecular Microbiology. Bacteriological

methods, cloning, site-specific mutagenesis, qPCR. Fluorescent/confocal

Microscopy.


Fluent English. Ability to write proposals and manuscripts


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25

Title of Research Project:

Mechanisms of Pathogenicity of postharvest pathogens

Project Leader: Dov Prusky Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683880

Institute: Food Technology

Department: Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce

The research team (other scientists): Amir Sherman, Amnon Lers, Haya Friedman

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Our lab handles the mechanisms of host/pathogen regulation of the activation of fungal

infections from quiescent to active infection after harvest. Our lab identified the capability

of pathogens to secreted ammonia and organic acids as gluconic for modulating the host pH

environment, pathogenicity and mycotoxin accumulation. The ammonia secreted by

Colletotrichum was found to i. modulate the host pH around the infection point, ii. to activate

the transcript activation of pathogenicity factors and to iii. Induce host cell leakage, ROS

production and cell death resulting in the enhanced transformation of quiescent to active

infection in ripening fruits. Activation of pathogenicity factors follow the activation of the

transcription factor pacC by the alkaline conditions induced during ammonia secretion. In

this relation we identified the effect of ammonia on ROS production and cell death as a pre-

ambul for necrotrophic development of the pathogen. Other postharvest pathogens acidify

the environment by secretion of organic acids as gluconic acid. Penicillium expansum

reduced the host pH in the diseased region by secretion of organic acids that activates as

well the expression of pathogenicity factors and mycotoxin accumulation. The present

research project will further try to understand the differential transcriptome expression

during quiescent and active infection, followed by the functional analysis of those genes as

a mechanism to understand the main pathogenicity factors that modulate fungal development

in ripening both in Penicillium and Colletotrichum.


PhD in Plant Physiology or Mycology or Host-pathogen interaction


Experience in microbiology or mycology. Significant experience in molecular

biology.


Fungal Genetics if possible, Molecular biology tools, transformation system


Program for Postdoctoral Fellowship Awards in Agriculture 2013-2014

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26


The involvement of RNases and nucleases in senescence, abscission

and programmed cell death processes in plants

Project Leader:

Amnon Lers


Phone :+972-3--9683608

Institute: Postharvest and Food Science, the Volcani Center

Department Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce



The T2 RNasesand type I nucleases are highly conserved enzymes, found in a wide

variety of organisms but their specific biological functions are largely unknown.

RNases and nucleases were hypothesized to be involved in senescence and

programmed cell death (PCD) processes in plants. We investigate the function and

regulation of a tomato T2-RNase in senescence and PCD and had found it is also

involved with abscission in which PCD was found to occur as well.In parallel the

regulation and cellular localization of an Arabidopsis type I nuclease was

characterized. Research is conducted, in both tomato and Arabidopsis, to study the

specific function/s of these nucleic acid degrading enzymes in senescence,

abscission and PCD and the regulatory mechanism which governs the expression

of their encoding genes.


Ph.D. in plant biology or in biochemistry & molecular biology


Experience in molecular biology and plant physiology.


Good English, highly motivated, good learning capabilities and independence in

research work.


Internal Ref #


1. ROS involvement in postharvest and senesescence

2. Banana ripening control

3. Peel damages in fruits

Project Leader: Dr. Haya Friedman Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-968-3618

Institute: ARO, Volcani Institute

Department: Postharvest Science


Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines):1. Analyzing phenotypes of

mutants in genes related to mitochondrial oxidative stress.

2. Analysis of RNAseq of banana fruit ripening of normal and mutated

banana in the control mechanism of ripening.

3. Pit development in cherry is a multifaceted phenomenon. We plan the

study the factors involved in this physiological damage.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: Ph.D.

Scientific Experience:Molecular biology or membrane physiology

Abilities and Skills:Lab expeience in molecular biology techniques


Internal Ref #


Elucidation of signaling pathways that regulate ethylene-induced leaf and flower abscission of agriculturally important plants

Project Leader: Dr. Shimon Meir


Phone : 972-3-9683667; 972-50-6220667

Institute: Postharvest and Food Sciences

Department: Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Amnon Lers

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): The aim of this project is to continue our previous research in understanding the

molecular events leading to tomato floral abscission. In this project we will (1)

complete the functional analysis of the stably transformed tomato plants with T2

lines, and perform transcriptome analysis using custom abscission-specific

microarrays; (2) perform transcriptome and proteome analyses to extend the earlier

gene expression studies, to identify transcripts and proteins that are highly specific to

the separation layer prior to the onset of abscission; Methodology: use of Next

Generation Sequencing (NGS) of mRNA and preparation of a custom tomato

abscission microarray to test altered gene expression in transgenic plants. Tandem

mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) of protein extracts from leaf and flower tissues and

their abscission zones (AZ) to identify the proteome of the AZ before and during

abscission. AZ-specific gene promoters will be used in stably transformed tomato

plants to reduce non-target phenotypes.


Education: Ph.D. in biology

Scientific Experience: Background in plant physiology, abscission, plant hormones,

microscopy, proteins and enzymology.

Abilities and Skills: Technical skills covering: Molecular biology, Biochemistry,

Proteomics, Transgenics, Bioinformatics, Microscopy and computer proficiency. To

conduct an independent research, including planning of the experimental system,

performing the experiments and writing reports and papers.


SOIL, WATER & ENVIRONMENT

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29


Developing stable-isotope tools for studying the fate of brominated agrochemicals in the environment

Project Leader: Anat Bernstein Email : [email protected]

Phone : 054-6861064

Institute: Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil Chemistry, Plant Nutrition, and Microbiology



Studying the fate of brominated organic pollutants (including agrochemicals) can be

done with relatively high sensitivity using stable-isotope tools. In the proposed project,

the isotope fractionation associated with transformation reactions of brominated organics

will be studied. This will be done by performing controlled abiotic transformation

reactions under laboratory conditions and subsequent stable isotope analysis. The results

would set a tool for identifying analog reactions in the environment.


Environmental sciences/Natural sciences


Experience with analytics of organic compounds would be advantageous

(GC/MS, LC/MS).



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30

Title of Research Project: Characterization of soil organic matter

with FTIR spectroscopy*

Project Leader: Mikhail Borisover Email : [email protected]

Phone :03-9683314

Institute: Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil chemistry, plant nutrition and microbiology



In recent years Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy has been widely

used to qualitatively characterize the composition of soil organic matter (SOM). The

SOM composition may be affected by agricultural management practices. In Israel,

common practices include use of treated wastewater for irrigation and land application

of organic wastes. Therefore, the objective of the project is to develop FTIR-based

approaches for quantitative characterization of changes in SOM composition which

will contribute to optimizing the use of organic wastes in agriculture.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: Holding a PhD/DSc degree exact or life Sciences with specialization and experience in the use of FTIR spectroscopy.

Scientific Experience: The candidate is expected to have experience in basic and/or applied research with use of FTIR spectroscopy.

Abilities and Skills: The candidate is expected to (i) manage a research program and be

able to analyze, interpret and summarize experimental results; (ii) participate in a

multidisciplinary research team and collaborate with other scientists from the institute.

Language – Proficient in English (spoken, written and reading).

* This project is associated with an existing interdisciplinary research program on “Degradation of soil properties following long term irrigation with treated wastewater and its effects of fruit tree plantations”.

Internal Ref #


Analysis of salt tolerance in tomato cultivars through physiological,

proteomic and genomic approaches with the emphasis on the antioxidant

system

Project Leader:

Bruria Heuer


Phone :972-3- 9683704

Institute: Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil Chemistry, Plant Nutrition and Microbiology



Preliminary studies in our laboratory showed that exogenous addition of glycinebetaine

to tomato roots induced tolerance to salinity. Some evidence suggests that resistance to

oxidative stress through changes in the antioxidative system may be involved in salt stress

tolerance. Following, the purpose of this research is to provide additional information on the

mechanism of salt tolerance in plants with the emphasis on the antioxidant system, by the

use of cultivars differing in their tolerance to salt and to determine, isolate and sequence

proteins expressed during salt tolerance by using a proteomic approach. With the use of

genomic approaches, this project will provide the knowledge of gene expression induced

by salinity and the role of microRNAs on tomato tolerance to salt stress.


Molecular biology, biochemistry, plant physiology, biotechnology – one or more of these experties


Protein isolation, sequencing and gene expression, microarray


Genetic analysis and manipulations, enzyme activity in gels, Western Blot, PCR, RT-

PCR


Internal

Ref # 32


Plant-microbe interaction: rhizosphere bacteria and their

interaction with the plant root

Project Leader:

Dr. Dror Minz


Phone : 972-3-9683316

Institute: Institute for Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil Chemistry, Plant nutrition and Microbiology

The research team (other scientists): currently 2 PhD students and 2 post-docs


Studying community composition and function in plant rhizosphere in relation to

plant type, soil type and nitrogen and CO2 concentration.

Gene expression by the total microbial community in the rhizosphere

(metagenomes)


Education:

Microbiology/ Microbial ecology/bioinformatics

Scientific Experience: working with molecular tools, preferably experience with

bioinformatic tools


Computer skills, writing scripts (R, Pearl), Linux


Internal

Ref # 33


Isolation of plant growth promoting- and disease suppressive

bacteria and determining their effects on plant and on rhizosphere

bacterial community structure and function

Project Leader:

Dr. Dror Minz


Phone : 972-3-9683316

Institute: Institute for Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil Chemistry, Plant nutrition and Microbiology

The research team (other scientists): currently 2 PhD students and 2 post-docs


Isolating and identifying bacteria with positive effects on different plants.

Studying their mode of actions and effect on the native community in the

rhizosphere


Education:

Microbiology/ Microbial ecology/Bioinformatics/Biochemistry

Scientific Experience: Working with bacteria and preferably also with plants.

Using molecular tools, preferably experience with bioinformatic tools.


Computer skills, writing scripts (R, Pearl), Linux


Internal Ref #


Biochar: Mechanisms of action in agricultural systems

Project Leader:

Dr. Ellen R. Graber


Phone :972-50-622-0307

Institute: Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences

Department: Soil Chemistry, Microbiology, and Plant Nutrition


List of scientists involved in the various biochar research projects at Volcani: https://sites.google.com/site/ibrnisraelbiocharnetwork/

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): The worthy candidate is invited to join a dynamic,multidisciplinary group of scientists working on many different aspects of Biochar Science. Biochar used along with organic and inorganic fertilizers can improve crop productivity, enhance soil aggregate structure, alter soil microbial populations, and promote plant resistance to disease. However, the mechanisms responsible for these effects remain largely unknown. The ultimate goal of the integrated research efforts is to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for ‘The Biochar Effect’ in different agricultural systems.


Education:Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, Chemistry, Materials Science, or

other related fields. Because the work is dynamic and interdisciplinary, the ability of the candidate to function well and contribute from his/her own expertise is more important than the specific field of learning.

Scientific Experience:Familiarity with soil chemical analysis, use of analytical equipment such as GC/MS and HPLC, good understanding of organic and inorganic soil chemistry are all helpful. Other experience can also be useful.

Abilities and Skills:High level of scientific curiosity, imagination, and spontaneity is

required, as well as the ability to “think out of the box”. Excellent English communication

skills, including writing. Ability to work independently, and also with other people. The

successful candidate needs to be willing and able to help train students, maintain lab

functionality, and prepare results for publication in international peer-reviewed journals.

High competence and well-justified self-confidence are needed.


https://sites.google.com/site/ibrnisraelbiocharnetwork/

https://sites.google.com/site/ibrnisraelbiocharnetwork/

PLANT PROTECTION

Internal Ref #

35

Title of Research Project: Potentiation of pest control by insect

baculoviruses and molecular targeting of insect defenses

Project Leader: Prof. Nor Chejanovsky


Phone : +972-3-9683694

Institute: Plant Protection

Department: Entomology


Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Noctuidae pests belonging to the

Lepidopteran family such as H. armigera, S.littoralis and S. littura, attack cotton, vegetables, ornamentals and fruit trees. The food crisis demands development of novel means to diminish non-specific pesticide abuse against those pests. We are developing novel baculoviruses and alternative means for pest control, compatible with IPM, that exploit weakening of the insect defenses towards pathogen infection by targeting the insect immune system. For this purpose we apply molecular biology techniques, virology and bioassays combined with bionformatic mining. Achieving our project objectives

will yield new ways friendly to the environment to control insect pests.

Knowledge: PhD. Knowledge of the English language. Reading, writing speaking. Experience: PhD thesis, conduction of laboratory experimentation. Ability and skills: background in molecular biology and virology


Internal Ref #

36

Title of Research Project: Dissecting Interactions between Root-Knot Nematode Effectors and Lipid Signaling Pathways Involved in Plant Defense

Project Leader: Dr Sigal Brown Horowitz


Phone : 972-3-9683353

Institute:Agriculture Research Organization, The Volcani Center

Department: The Entomology and units of Nematology and Chemistry

The research team (other scientists): none

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Our central hypothesis is that

rootknot nematodes manipulate fatty acid-mediated defense responses by targeting key plant genes involved in these pathways using secreted effector proteins. Our objectives are to i) determine the role of nematode Fatty Acid and Retinol (FAR) proteins in interfering with intracellular lipid signaling related to host defenses, ii) functionally characterize interactions between root-knot nematode effector genes and the plant oxylipin pathway and iii) study the role of plant oxylipin pathway genes in the root-knot nematode infection process.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: Bachelor's degrees in plant sciences, MSc & PhD of Science in Plant

Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

Scientific Experience: Experience in handling with tissue cultures, molecular

techniques, plant transformation methods, genetics and genomics approaches

Abilities and Skills: English second language, familiar with computer softwares,

handy and social


Internal Ref #


Sweetpotato viruses as a limitation to productivity

Project Leader: Dr. Victor Gaba Email : [email protected]

Phone : 03-9683769; 050-6220769


Department: Plant Pathology and weed research

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Mouhammad Zeidan

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Sweetpotato productivity

worldwide is strongly affected by a wide range of viruses. We are constructing an

infectious clone of a virus to study unique features of viruses infecting sweet potato,

as well as foreign gene expression in sweet potato.


Education: PhD

Scientific Experience: General molecular biology plant and viruses

Abilities and Skills: Excellent general background in molecular biology, handling of

RNA; preferably with experience in plant molecular biology and/or virology


Internal Ref #

38


Plant defense: Gene silencing mechanism through virus infection

in cucurbits

Project Leader: Dr. Amit Gal-On Email : [email protected]

Phone :03-9683563; 050-6220563


Department: Plant Pathology and Weed Research

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Sabrina Haviv, Ms Diana Leibman

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines):RNA silencing is an endogenous

process associated with protection of plants from viral infection. RNAdependent

RNA polymerase 1 (RDR1) provides a key plant defense against viruses. The

objective is to examine whether dsRNA molecules can stimulate RDR1 transcription independent of the inducer salicylic acid.


Education:PhD

Scientific Experience:General molecular biology of plant and viruses

Abilities and Skills:Excellent general background in molecular biology, handling of

RNA; preferably with a experience in plant molecular biology and/or virology


Internal Ref #

39


Development of a push pull method for control of the red palm

weevil

Project Leader:

Dr. Victoria Soroker Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683832

Institute:

Plant Protection

Department:

Entomology


This research is a part of an EU project "Palm Protect", involving Italian

researcher Prof. Stefano Colazza


Research objective is to identify the potential repellents for the red palm weevil

Rhychophorus ferrugineus and develop a push pull method for this pest.


Insect Behavior field and laboratory bioassays

Chemical Ecology

Education:

PhD




Internal Ref #

40


Honey bee breeding for varroa tolerance

Project Leader:

Dr. Victoria Soroker Email : [email protected]

Phone : 972-3-9683832

Institute:

Plant Protection

Department:

Entomology


Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): The objective of the study is to develop behavioral and molecular markers markers for a honeybee breeding program for varroa resistance


Knowledge of Honey bee biology and or breeding

Artificial insemination

Education:

PHD




Internal Ref #

41 . Title of Research Project:

The role of apyrene sperm in sexual selection ofmonandrous moth

species.

Project Leader: Ally Harari Email : [email protected]

Phone :972 39683910

Institute: The Volcani Center


The research team (other scientists):Dr. Hadass Steinitz

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Sperm competition is a major sexual selective force greatly influencing both male and female reproductive behavior. In this context the evolution of apyrene, non-fertilizing sperm in the Lepidoptera is especially interesting. One hypothesis for the apyrene role is in competing with rival males' perm. This hypothesis will be tested in monandrous species when limited competition among males is expected.


Education:PhD

Scientific Experience:Ecology, Behaviour, Entomology

Abilities and Skills:Independent working


Internal Ref #

42 1. Title of Research Project: Characterization of male moth flight to sex

pheromone partial information

Project Leader: Ally Harari Email : [email protected]

Phone :972 39683910

Institute: The Volcani Center


The research team (other scientists): De. Hadass Steinitz


There are indications that the pheromone odor allows a female moth to advertise her quality, and that males choose among females from a distance. Thus, the challenge for the male may not be only recognizing his species from others but to read between the lines of species-related information to increase his reproductive success. The project will focus on the question.The mechanisms by which a male perceive a female quality is the focus of

this study.


Education:PhD

Scientific Experience:Ecology, Behaviour, Entomology

Abilities and Skills:Independent working


Internal Ref #


Bacterial symbions of the sweetpotato whitefly Bemisia tabaci and

their influence on their host

Project Leader:

Einat Zchori-Fein


Phone : +972-4-9539549

Institute: Agricultural Research Organization

Department: Entomology, Newe Ya’ar


Prof. Martha Hunter (Entomologist, working at the University of Arizona); Dr. Shiri Frielich (Bioinformatician working at Newe Ya’ar); Prof. Shai Morin

(Entomologist working at the Hebrew University) and Dr. Lilach Iasur-Kruh

(Microbiologist, a post-doctoral fellow at the Entomology lab at Newe Ya’ar)


We are investigating the interactions between the sweetpotato whitefly and its

facultative symbionts. We found Rickettsia confers large fitness benefits and

female sex ratio bias to whiteflies, and that Rickettsia can spread rapidly in new

populations. The current project is focused on testing the hypothesis that

Rickettsia fitness benefits are conferred via manipulation of plant defense

pathways.


Education: A good background in entomology and/or plant sciences, is a must as well as a solid grip of computational tools.


Previous experience with a diverse array of molecular techniques (PCR, RT-PCR etc.) is required, as well as a good experience in rearing plants and insects (preferably phytophagous ones) and working with plants and insects. Experience with high level bioinformatic tools will be an advantage.


We will be looking for an independent individual, who will be capable of applying a

diverse array of methods (including molecular, microscopy and computer work) as well

as innovative thinking. The candidate should be willing and able to learn and assimilate

new technologies, and able to collaborate with other team members.


ANIMAL SCIENCE INSTITUTE

Internal Ref #


Detection of QTL, candidate genes and microRNA for sex

determination and differentiation in tilapia

Project Leaders: Prof. M. Ron and Prof. G. Hulata

Email : [email protected]; 08-9484428

[email protected]; 03-9683020

Phone :

Institute: The Volcani Research Organization, Institute of Animal Science

The research team (other scientists): Dr.

Shirak, Mrs. Eshel

Short Description of Research Project (3-5 lines): Commercial production of tilapia relies on monosex cultures of males. Evidence supports

that sex determination (SD) in tilapia is controlled by major genetic factors. Quantitative

trait loci in tilapia affecting SD, sex-specific mortality or both were mapped to different

linkage groups. Systems biology approaches of data mining, comparative mapping, gene and

miRNA expression are used to elucidate the interactive network of genes, pathways and

regulatory elements that determine the early onset of SD of tilapia.

Required Qualifications of Visiting Scientist: Education: Genetics and molecular biology


Abilities and Skills: Computational analysis, bioinformatics, molecular analysis

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING INSTITUTE

Internal Ref #


Sustainable Production in Protected Cultivation via Improved

Management and Control of Microclimate

Project Leader: Dr. Meir Teitel Email : [email protected]

Phone : 97239683515

Institute: Agricultural Engineering

Department: Growing Production and Environmental Engineering

The research team (other scientists): Dr. Josef Tanny, Dr. Hagai Yasuor


The project deals with development of innovative, low cost and energy efficient houses

for protected cultivation (greenhouses and screenhouses). Emphasize will be given to

basic understanding of processes followed by improved design of ventilation & cooling

systems. The main objective is to alleviate the high heat load and reduce high humidity

which were often observed inside these houses in recent years, due to the global climate

change.


Education: Ph.D. in Agricultural or Mechanical engineering. Scientific Experience: The applicant should have experience in measurement of environmental parameters such as solar radiation, heat flux, temperature and humidity. A good theoretical background in engineering aspects of heat transfer and fluid mechanics is required. Knowledge and experience in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is an advantage. Abilities and Skills: Fluent in English, good programming skills with scientific software, good background with data logging. Willingness to learn, ability to work in a scientific group, leadership and initiative character.


Internal Ref # Title of Research Project: 1 The function ... · The function of miRNAs in tomato...

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