Masters Student Opening Equine Microflora Metagenomics

Texas A&M University, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory.

Principle Investigator: Jan E. Janecka, Ph.D.

Dr. Janecka is recruiting a Masters student to start Fall 2013 for a project exploring the equine hindgut microflora and its link to nutrition and health of horses. Horses obtain majority of their nutrients and energy from the breakdown of plant material by microbes. Dysregulation of the hindgut microflora following overconsumption of grain or lush pasture contributes to numerous diseases including colic and laminitis. This study is exploring the response of the hindgut bacterial communities to an influx of simple carbohydrates in healthy horses as a basis for understanding microbial factors that may contribute to different disease states. The thesis work will include sampling horses, molecular techniques, and bioinformatics analysis of 454 and Illumina data.  This project is funded by the Morris Animal Foundation.

Prospective student must be highly motivated and have a strong background in biology, work experience, and demonstrated excellence in coursework and aptitude for research. Experience with either horses, molecular biology, or bioinformatics is preferred. Student will join the Molecular Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory and therefore have the opportunity to become involved in additional projects based on their interest. Please visit our website to learn more about our research. /labs/cytogenics-genomics

If you would like to apply for this position please send an email to Dr. Jan E. Janecka (jjanecka@cvm.tamu.edu) with a 1-page cover letter (including research interests, career goals, and skills), CV, most recent transcripts (can be unofficial), and contacts for 3 references.

The student will be in the BIMS Masters program. Please visit the CVM graduate program webpage for additional application information and to learn more about our graduate program.