Announcements

Employment Opportunities

Senior Research Scientist in Pharmacogenomics.—The Departments of Genomics and Proteomic Sciences at Pfizer Global Research and Development are seeking candidates for a senior research scientist position in pharmacogenomics. The successful applicant will have a Ph.D. in human genetics and/or an M.D. and will be responsible for contributing to the goals of the global pharmacogenomics group by providing human genetics expertise in the area of drug discovery and development. Opportunities currently exist in several areas, including neurobiology, cardiovascular, and oncology research. A proven track record with emerging genetics technologies and novel analytical approaches to complex-disease genetics are important. The successful candidate will also be responsible for supervising a human genetics laboratory and the research of associate scientists in the group. Communication skills are an essential requirement, since this position will involve interaction with a variety of clinical and discovery teams in Groton as well as with global pharmacogenomics colleagues. Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae to Patrice M. Milos, Ph.D., Pharmacogenomics, Pfizer Global Research and Development MS-8118D-3011, Groton, CT 06340; telephone: (860) 441-4342; fax: (860) 441-0436; e-mail: Patrice_M_Milos@groton.pfizer.com. Pfizer is an equal opportunity employer.

Cytogenetic/Molecular Technologist.—The Kleberg cytogenetics and molecular cytogetics laboratory at Baylor College of Medicine has an immediate opening for an outstanding individual with proven ability in cytogenetics, FISH, and molecular genetics. The laboratory processes all types of cytogenetic samples and has a growing diagnostic molecular biology and FISH component. Responsibilities of the position will include establishing and monitoring quality-control/quality-assurance activities, implementing new technologies, and troubleshooting problems encountered in the day-to-day activities of the laboratory. The preferred candidate should have at least 2 years of experience in a full-service cytogenetics/molecular genetics laboratory, experience in microscopy, and a B.S. degree or higher in a related field. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Please send your curriculum vitae to Rizwan C. Naeem, M.D., F.A.C.M.G., Associate Professor, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Director, Kleberg Cytogenetics and Molecular Cytogenetics Laboratory, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Room 410A, Houston, TX 77030; telephone: (713) 798-4991; fax: (713) 798-4998; e-mail: rizwann@bcm.tmc.edu. The laboratory's administrative assistant, Narcy Stokes, can be contacted by telephone, at (713) 798-7576, or by e-mail, at mstokes@bcm.tmc.edu. To find out more about the Kleberg Cytogenetics Laboratory, visit our Web site (http://www.imgen.bcm.tmc.edu/medgen/klebergcytogenetics.htm).

Tenure-Track Positions in Genetics.—The Department of Genetics at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans invites applications for tenure-track faculty positions at the assistant- or associate-professor levels to enhance growth and expansion in human genetics, genomics/bioinformatics, and genetic epidemiology. Exciting opportunities for collaborative interdisciplinary research exist through LSU Centers of Excellence in cancer, neuroscience, oral biology, and cardiovascular biology, as well as the Louisiana Gene Therapy Consortium and the Kresge Hearing Research Laboratory. Successful candidates will enjoy excellent space and state-of-the-art equipment and core facilities. Requirements are postdoctoral experience and the ability to establish an extramurally supported research program. Contributing to the graduate and medical teaching activities of the department is expected. Please send a curriculum vitae, a description of research interests, and the addresses of three references to Bronya Keats, Ph.D., Department of Genetics, LSU Health Sciences Center, 533 Bolivar Street, New Orleans, LA 70112. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Faculty Position in Biostatistics.—The Division of Biostatistics of the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota has a tenure-track faculty position available at the assistant-professor level. We are interested in individuals with training in statistical genetics. Consideration will also be given to applicants with a strong background in other areas, including bioinformatics, proteomics, longitudinal data analysis, or time series. Faculty members are expected to develop an independent research program. Potential exists for collaboration with researchers in the School of Public Health, the Medical School, and the Biomedical Genomics and Bioinformatics Centers. The Division of Biostatistics (http://www.biostat.umn.edu/) currently includes 21 graduate faculty and 87 staff members. The division offers M.S., M.P.H., and Ph.D. degrees and interacts in teaching and advising with the University of Minnesota's School of Statistics. Faculty expertise exists in analysis of spatial and longitudinal data; Bayes and empirical Bayes methods; computer-intensive methods, such as Markov chain Monte Carlo; survival analysis; longitudinal models; and generalized linear models. The division is home to the statistical coordinating centers for a number of clinical trials in HIV/AIDS, lung disease, and cardiovascular disease. Other major research areas of the division include research in cancer prevention and treatment, dental research, environmental and occupational health, health policy, chronic care, and smoking prevention. Multi-year grants and contracts for various divisional projects total >$75 million dollars. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching and advising students at the graduate level. The salary range for this faculty position will be very competitive, and the University of Minnesota offers excellent fringe benefits. To apply, please send a letter specifying interest in the assistant professor position, the names and addresses of three referees, and a curriculum vitae by February 18, 2002, to Dr. James Neaton, Chair of Search Committee, Division of Biostatistics, A460 Mayo Building Box 303, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0378. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Tenure-Track Faculty Position, Genomic Medicine Program.—The Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS), Academia Sinica, Taiwan, is establishing a Genomics/Proteomics Center to facilitate research in genomics medicine and drug discovery, proteomics, and bioinformatics and to promote the development of biotechnology. The research programs will be supported by high-throughput and state-of-the-art core facilities. As a part of this new initiative, we are seeking well-qualified applicants with strong backgrounds and interests in the following areas of research: gene mapping, mouse genetics, gene therapy, bioinformatics, genome technology, cancer genomics, proteomics, and stem-cell biology. Individuals with Ph.D., M.D., or M.D./Ph.D. degrees who have completed postdoctoral training and have demonstrated productivity are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will be expected to develop a vigorous, competitive, and interactive research program. Applicants should contact Dr. S. T. Lee, Chairperson, Recruitment Committee, IBMS, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan, ROC. See our Web site (http://www.ibms.sinica.edu.tw/) for details.

Faculty Position in Molecular Genetics.—The Genetics Program in the Department of Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine is inviting individuals with outstanding research accomplishments in molecular genetics to apply for a faculty position at the assistant- or associate-professor level. The successful candidate will join a highly accomplished team of genetics researchers and will be expected to establish a new laboratory and to pursue independent and collaborative studies in complex disorders and diseases of urban populations. The applicant's research should employ molecular and genome technology methods applied to human diseases or animal models thereof. Active participation in teaching of graduate and medical students is also expected. The research environment is enhanced by a molecular genetics core facility within the genetics program, a novel graduate training program in molecular medicine, the emergence of a new basic-science genetics department, large and accessible patient populations, and numerous opportunities for collaborative clinical and basic research. Applicants must have a Ph.D., an M.D., or an equivalent degree. A competitive start-up and benefits package and appropriate space will be offered. Salary and rank will be commensurate with experience and expertise. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a cover letter detailing experience and future interests, and three letters of recommendation to Lindsay A. Farrer, Ph.D., Chief, Genetics Program, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118; telephone: (617) 638-5393; fax: (617) 638-4275; e-mail: farrer@neugen.bu.edu. Boston University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Research Scientist.—The Columbia Genome Center (at Columbia University) is recruiting candidates for the position of research scientist. The successful candidate will lead the Columbia Genome Center's gene-mapping efforts to target genes for epilepsy and autism. The candidate should have an M.D. or Ph.D. degree and at least 2 years of postdoctoral experience, with documented productivity in gene mapping and positional cloning. Preference will be given to candidates with good communication and leadership skills. Please send a résumé and references to the Columbia Genome Center, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue, Russ Berrie Pavilion, Room 507, New York, NY 10032. Columbia University is an equal opportunity employer.

Fellowship

Training Fellowship in Clinical Cytogenetics—Applications are invited for a 2–3-year training fellowship in clinical cytogenetics at the Kleberg cytogenetics laboratory in the Department of Molecular and Human Genetics at Baylor College of Medicine. The central aim of the fellowship is eligibility for certification in clinical cytogenetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics. Ample opportunities for research are also available. Candidates with an M.D. or Ph.D. degree who have a strong background in cancer and molecular biology are encouraged to apply. Please send a copy of your resumé and personal statement to Rizwan C. Naeem, M.D., F.A.C.M.G., Associate Professor, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Director, Kleberg Cytogenetics and Molecular Cytogenetics Laboratory, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Room 410A, Houston, TX 77030; telephone: (713) 798-4991; fax: (713) 798-4998; e-mail: rizwann@bcm.tmc.edu. The laboratory's administrative assistant, Narcy Stokes, can be contacted by telephone, at (713) 798-7576, or by e-mail, at mstokes@bcm.tmc.edu. To find out more about the Kleberg Cytogenetics Laboratory, visit our Web site (http://www.imgen.bcm.tmc.edu/medgen/klebergcytogenetics.htm).

Conference

Third International DNA Sampling Conference.—The Third International DNA Sampling Conference will be held September 5–8, 2002, in Montreal, Canada. The conference will be hosted by the Center for Research in Law of the University of Montreal, The Health Law Institute of the University of Alberta, and the Network for the Applied Genetic Research of Quebec. This conference will bring together leaders, researchers, and policy-makers to examine the following themes: "Population Genetics and Community Genetics," "Research: DNA Sampling and Banking," "Public and Private Databases," "Discrimination," and "Patents and Benefit Sharing." For additional information, please visit the conference Web site (http://www.humgen.umontreal.ca/conference/en/) or reach us by telephone at (514) 343-2142.

Call for Abstracts

DNA Sampling Conference.—The Third International DNA Sampling Conference will be held 5–8 September, 2002, in Montreal. The scientific committee invites on the following themes: "Population Genetics and Community Genetics," "Research: DNA Sampling and Banking," "Public and Private Databases," "Discrimination," and "Patents and Benefit Sharing." The deadline for submission of abstracts is 12 p.m. on January 31, 2002; abstracts should be submitted via the conference Web site (http://www.humgen.umontreal.ca/conference/en/). The scientific committee will choose 20 submissions for oral presentation in the thematic sessions. Abstracts will also be published in the conference proceedings and on the conference Web site. Abstracts must be in English, and the principal author may submit only one abstract. Selection criteria will include originality, relevance to the multidisciplinary program of the conference, academic rigor, and contribution to the advancement of knowledge. For more information, contact Centre de recherche de droit public, Third International DNA Sampling Conference, University of Montreal, C.P. 6128, succ. Centre-Ville, Montreal, Qc, Canada, H3C 3J7; telephone: (514) 343-2142; fax: (514) 343-2122.

Annual Educational Conference.—The National Society of Genetic Counselors' 21st Annual Education Conference will be held November 10–13, 2002, in Phoenix, AZ. Members are asked to submit abstracts for consideration as posters or as platform presentations. The theme of this year's conference is "Genetic Counseling: Coming of Age in the Technology Era." This conference will examine the challenges of the changing role of the genetic counselor in the technology era. Emphasis will be placed on strategies to help genetic counselors become involved as new areas of health care begin to practice genetic medicine. Although abstracts related to the conference theme are encouraged, any high-quality abstract of interest to genetic counselors is welcome. Students and nonmembers are encouraged to submit abstracts with sponsorship by a full member of the NSGC. Abstracts must be submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Friday, June 7, 2002. Guidelines for abstract submission may be found on the NSGC Web site: (http://www.NSGC.org/). The Journal of Genetic Counseling strongly recommends submission of articles for publication based on presentations and posters. Members of the abstract committee are available to provide guidance to members and students who would like assistance in the development of a presentation or poster. For information regarding abstract submission and/or development, contact Cathy Wicklund, M.S. (telephone: (713) 500-6464; e-mail: Catherine.A.Wicklund@uth.tmc.edu), or Cheryl Dickerson, M.S. (telephone: (704) 355-7916; e-mail: Cheryl.dickerson@carolinashealthcare.org).

Awards

Allan Award.—The Allan Award is the highest honor bestowed by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) and was established in 1961 in memory of William Allan (1881–1943), one of the first American physicians to conduct extensive research in human genetics. The Allan Award is presented annually to recognize sustained and outstanding scientific contributions to human genetics. The Allan Award comprises a medal and $10,000, which is granted as a personal prize. The awardee is invited to present a 30–45-min plenary address to the ASHG at the annual meeting and is asked to submit a manuscript to The American Journal of Human Genetics. The award is not contingent on the address or the submission of a manuscript. A listing of previous Allan award winners can be found at the ASHG Web site (http://www.faseb.org/genetics/ashg/meet-2001/P-A/awards.htm). Nomination for the Allan Award should be based on a body of substantial and sustained scientific contributions, made over a lifetime, to human and medical genetics. A single scientific contribution is not considered sufficient. Both American and overseas scientists may be proposed. Awardees will usually be ASHG members, but membership is not required. Usually, a single recipient should be nominated. If two scientists have collaborated or have contributed independently to the topic for which the award is given, two individuals may be nominated. Each will receive the full amount of the award. All members of the Society are urged to submit a single nomination. Please submit a letter documenting the nominee's significant and sustained contributions to the field of human genetics. Nomination letters must be received by April 15, 2002, to be considered. Please send them to Joann A. Boughman, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, American Society of Human Genetics, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814; telephone: (301) 571-1825; fax: (301) 530-7079; e-mail: jboughman@ashg.org

Stern Award.—The Stern Award was instituted by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) in 2001 and honors the memory of Curt Stern (1902–81) as an outstanding pioneer in human genetics and the ASHG President in 1956. This award will be granted annually to a scientist for major scientific achievement in human genetics that occurred in the past 10 years. The award comprises a personal prize of $2,500 and an engraved crystal piece. Nomination for the Stern Award should be based on a major scientific discovery or a series of contributions on a similar or related topic during the past 10 years (whereas the Allan Award honors lifetime achievements). Both American and overseas scientists may be proposed. Awardees will usually be ASHG members, but membership is not required. Usually, a single recipient should be nominated. If two scientists have collaborated or have contributed independently to the topic for which the award is given, two individuals may be nominated. Each will receive the full amount of the award. All members of the Society are urged to submit a single nomination. Please submit a letter documenting the nominee's significant contribution to the last decade of discovery in human genetics. The nomination must be received by April 15, 2002, to be considered. Please send them to Joann A. Boughman, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, American Society of Human Genetics, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814; telephone: (301) 571-1825; fax: (301) 530-7079; e-mail:jboughman@ashg.org

ASHG Award for Excellence in Human Genetics Education.—The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) has established an award to recognize outstanding contributions to human genetics education. Nominations for this award are now being solicited from members of the Society. Nominees must have made a contribution that is recognized nationally or internationally as being of exceptional quality and great importance to human genetics education. Examples would include producing a set of writings that have had a major influence on human genetics education, developing a course that is widely emulated, writing a book that has been adopted by many universities, producing a popular television series on medical genetics, or directing a fellowship program that has consistently produced unusually successful graduates. The range of possible contributions to human genetics education is great, but the quality and impact of the contribution must be exceptional. Any ASHG member may propose a candidate for nomination by submitting appropriate documentation to the Information and Education Committee. This documentation should consist of a detailed description of the individual's qualifications and educational contribution(s), as well as letters of support from two other ASHG members. The Committee will choose at least three individuals as nominees each year and will prepare a standard dossier on each. These dossiers will be provided to the ASHG Awards Committee for consideration prior to the annual meeting. The recipient of the award will be selected by the ASHG Awards Committee from the nominations submitted to it by the Information and Education Committee. The Awards Committee may choose not to present the award in a given year if, in its opinion, none of the nominees is a suitable recipient. Previous award recipients are Margaret Thompson, Barton Childs, Victor McKusick, C. C. Li, Arno Motulsky, F. Clarke Fraser, and Charles Scriver. Nominations and supporting documents must be received by April 15, 2002, to be considered for the award. Please submit complete documentation and letters of recommendation in support of the nomination to ASHG Information and Education Committee, c/o Jane Doran Salomon, M.S., The American Society of Human Genetics, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814; e-mail: jsalomon@ashg.org

Online Analysis Tool

IMGT/JunctionAnalysis.—IMGT, the international immunogenetics database announces a new, freely available tool, IMGT/JunctionAnalysis. The IMGT/JunctionAnalysis tool, freely available at the IMGT Web site (http://imgt.cines.fr:8104/) allows identification and analysis of the P, N, and D regions of the junctions of the rearranged immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor genes in human and mouse. The analysis provides—in addition to the P, N, and D regions—the number of somatic mutations for immunoglobulin V, D, and J at the junction, the GC nucleotide content of the N regions, and the translation of the junction with the IMGT numbering of the CDR3 amino acids. This program can analyze many sequences at a time (several hundred). Each entry, in FASTA format, must comprise the sequence name (provided by the user) and the IMGT V and J gene and allele names. This information can be obtained by analysis of each sequence with the IMGT/V-QUEST, if the V and J regions are sufficiently long. The nucleotide sequence of the junction (from the cysteine codon 104 of the V to the phenylalanine or tryptophan codon 118 of the J). The IMGT nomenclature for human immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes was approved by HUGO in 1999, and links have been made to the Genome DataBase (Toronto) and LocusLink (NCBI). For more information, contact IMGT, LIGM, IGH, UPR CNRS 1142, 141 rue de la Cardonille, 34396 Montpellier Cedex 5, France; telephone: +33 (0) 4 99 61 99 65; fax: +33 (0) 4 99 61 99 01; e-mail: lefranc@ligm.igh.cnrs.fr

Meeting

The Institute for the Unborn Baby 2002 Postgraduate Seminar.—The Institute for the Unborn Baby will present its 2002 postgraduate seminar on June 21–22, 2002, at the McClurg Court Holiday Inn City Center in Chicago, IL. The program will address the interface between ultrasound diagnosis of fetal structural anomalies, subsequent care of the newborn, and counseling of the family. Speakers will include specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrical ultrasonography, genetics, pediatric cardiology, pediatric urology, pediatric neurosurgery, and other disciplines. The format will be interactive, with many case presentations. Anomalies to be highlighted include cardiac defects, hydronephrosis, hydrocephalus, and diaphragmatic hernia. CME credit will be available. For more information, see the Institute Web site (http://www.iub.org/) or contact Max Maizels, M.D., Professor of Urology, Northwestern University Medical School, and Director, Institute for the Unborn Baby; telephone: (773) 880-4428; e-mail: mmaizels@nwu.edu