Announcements

Employment Opportunities

Statistical Geneticist.—Roche Molecular Systems, a leader in the field of DNA-based diagnostic tests, located in Alameda and Berkeley, CA, is looking for a statistical geneticist/biostatistican to join its multidisciplinary Complex Disease Group. The successful candidate will work on a variety of projects, including evaluation of whether candidate genes or haplotypes influence disease occurrence and analysis of mRNA profiling data. Responsibilities will also include review of potential publications for statistical accuracy and writing reports for in-house team members as well as outside collaborators. Qualifications for the position include familiarity with a wide range of statistical methods, such as ANOVA, logistic-regression analysis, survival analysis, linkage analysis, and multivariate analysis. Knowledge of genetics and experience in analysis genetic data are preferred. Proficiency in Splus or SAS is necessary. A Ph.D. or master's degree in statistics, biostatistics, statistical genetics, or genetic epidemiology is required. Good communication skills are required. Please submit your resume via e-mail to bonnie.fijal@roche.com

Technical Director, Molecular Genetics Diagnostic Laboratory.—The Detroit Medical Center University Laboratories (DMC-UL) and the Department of Pathology at Wayne State University School of Medicine have an immediate opening for an associate technical director or technical director of their molecular genetics diagnostic laboratory. This individual must hold a Ph.D. and must be certified by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) or eligible for such certification. The DMC is an integrated health-care system consisting of seven hospitals, with a consolidated laboratory and a large outreach service. We are soliciting outstanding candidates with demonstrated expertise in directing a clinical molecular diagnostic laboratory. Academic appointment will be commensurate with qualifications. The successful candidate will be responsible for supervision and operation of the laboratory, including development and implementation of new diagnostic tests. The lab offers testing in the areas of inherited genetic diseases and oncological gene-rearrangement disorders. Opportunities exist to participate in an active research and development program, leading to presentations and scientific publications. The University has ABMG-approved training programs in clinical biochemical genetics, clinical cytogenetics, and clinical molecular genetics, as well as a medical genetics residency program. Salary and benefits packages are competitive. For further information, contact Gerald L. Feldman, M.D., Ph.D., FACMG, Associate Professor of Pathology, Pediatrics and Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Medical Director, Molecular Genetics Diagnostic Laboratory, Detroit Medical Center University Laboratories, Harper Hospital, Department of Pathology, 3990 John Road, Detroit, MI 48201; telephone: (313) 577-6298; fax: (313) 577-9137; e-mail: gfeldman@genetics.wayne.edu. The Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers.

Faculty Positions.—The Division of Statistical Genetics in the Biostatistics Department at Columbia University seeks applicants with an interest in statistical genetics. Applicants should have a major interest in genetic analysis, the demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, the ability to collaborate with investigators in other disciplines in genetics, and outstanding teaching ability. We seek applicants at the assistant professor level. We will also consider applicants at the associate professor level who have an already-established record of research publications, teaching, and collaboration in statistical genetics. A doctorate is required. For contact information, see our Web site (http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/dept/sph/biostat/). Columbia University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Pre- and Postdoctoral Positions in Statistical Genetic Analysis and Genetic Epidemiology.—The Genetics of Complex Disorders (GCD) training program in the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University provides pre- and postdoctoral training in the genetic epidemiology and statistical genetic analysis of complex diseases, including psychiatric disorders. Our mission is to train scientists who will be aware of all aspects of genetic studies, including study design, clinical aspects, phenotype definition, molecular laboratory issues, and statistical analysis. Training includes both didactic and research components. The didactic component includes both an academic program (including courses in human genetics, epidemiology, statistical genetics, computer simulations, research communication skills, and responsible conduct of research) and a series of practical laboratory rotations. In the research component, each fellow will work closely with a preceptor on an independent research project. Further information can be obtained at our Web site (http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/dept/sph/epi/gcd/). Columbia University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens.

Scientific Director, Cytogenetics.—The cytogenetics department of Quest Diagnostics, at the Nichols Institute in San Juan Capistrano, CA, seeks a scientific director to join the management team of their expanding, high-volume laboratory. This position reports to the director of cytogenetics. An M.D. or Ph.D. with certification in clinical cytogenetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) is required. Significant experience in FISH and molecular methods is also required. ABMG certification in clinical molecular genetics or eligibility for such certification would be desirable but is not required. Responsibilities of the position include directing validation of new assays, oversight of clinical trials, case reporting and sign-out, consultation with referring physicians and counselors, and participation in staff educational activities and projects. The department offers a comprehensive test menu that includes chorionic villus sampling, amniotic fluid, products of conception, peripheral blood, Fanconi anemia, and sister chromatid exchange studies, as well as oncology, FISH, and spectral karyotyping. The department also has an active and exciting research and development program, with opportunities to participate in projects leading to presentations and scientific publications. Full benefits offered by Quest Diagnostics include medical/dental insurance, 401(k), employee stock programs, and other incentives. Communications should be directed to Arturo Anguiano, ABMG, FACMG, Director, Cytogenetics Department, Quest Diagnostics at Nichols Institute, 33608 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92690; fax: (949) 728-4979; e-mail: AnguianA@questdiagnostics.com

Associate Director, Cytogenetics.—The cytogenetics department of Quest Diagnostics, at the Nichols Institute in San Juan Capistrano, CA, seeks a scientific director to join the management team of their expanding, high-volume laboratory. This position reports to the director of cytogenetics. An M.D. or Ph.D. with certification in clinical cytogenetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) is required. Other ABMG certification would be desirable but is not required. Responsibilities of the position include case reporting and sign-out, consultation with referring physicians and counselors, and participation in staff educational activities and projects. The department offers a comprehensive test menu that includes chorionic villus sampling, amniotic fluid, products of conception, peripheral blood, Fanconi anemia, and sister chromatid exchange studies, as well as oncology, FISH, and spectral karyotyping. The department also has an active and exciting research and development program, with opportunities to participate in projects leading to presentations and scientific publications. Full benefits offered by Quest Diagnostics include medical/dental insurance, 401(k), employee stock programs, and other incentives. Communications should be directed to Arturo Anguiano, ABMG, FACMG, Director, Cytogenetics Department, Quest Diagnostics at Nichols Institute, 33608 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92690; fax: (949) 728-4979; e-mail: AnguianA@questdiagnostics.com

Faculty Positions.—The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Institute for Genetic Medicine at the University of Southern California is seeking outstanding candidates, at the assistant- or associate-professor level, who apply modern genetic and/or genomic approaches to contemporary problems in human-disease etiology and in relevant model organisms. We are looking for interactive new colleagues to complement our existing group of eight faculty in the interdepartmental institute. Competitive start-up packages and modern, well-equipped research facilities in the IGM "collaboratories" will be offered. Please send a curriculum vitae, along with a statement of past research accomplishments and future plans. Candidates for assistant professor should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be included in their dossiers before screening begins. Contact Anne Vazquez, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, USC Keck School of Medicine, 2250 Alcazar Street, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9075; fax: (323) 442-2764; e-mail: annvazqu@hsc.usc.edu

Assistant Molecular Geneticists.—The Harvard-Partners Center for Genetics and Genomics (HPCGG) invites applications for assistant molecular geneticist positions in the recently created Laboratory of Molecular Medicine (LMM). Partners is an integrated health-care system founded by Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, and the HPCGG is a newly organized center under the scientific directorship of Raju S. Kucherlapati. The LMM will be a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments–approved facility that will conduct diagnostic testing by use of state-of-the-art molecular methods. The laboratory will embrace the rapid translation of research discoveries into clinical tests and will aggressively employ high-throughput technologies in diagnostic testing. The successful applicant will enjoy a newly constructed laboratory, interaction with a large and diverse academic faculty, and the opportunity to develop a premier laboratory to implement the bridge to genomic medicine. Academic appointment will be at the instructor level at Harvard Medical School. Certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics (or active candidate status) in clinical molecular genetics and American Board of Pathology certification in molecular genetic pathology are highly desirable. Outstanding candidates should submit a curriculum vitae, a statement of research/clinical experience, and the names of three individuals who could provide letters of reference to Dr. Cynthia C. Morton, HPCGG, Thorn 917, 20 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply. Harvard Medical School and Partners HealthCare System are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers.

Laboratory Director.—Clinigene Laboratories has an immediate opening for a clinical geneticist to direct a rapidly growing genetic-screening service accredited by New York State and the College of American Pathologists. The applicant should have an M.D. or a Ph.D. in genetics, molecular biology, or a related field; certification or eligibility for certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics in molecular and/or biochemical genetics; and eligibility for New York State certification. In addition to laboratory operations, the successful candidate's responsibilities will include test development, interaction with health-care providers, and design of educational materials. The position includes excellent benefits, including medical/dental insurance and 401(k), and a salary commensurate with experience. For more information, contact Dr. Linda Bradley, FACMG, at lbradley@clinigene.com, or Pat Lanza, at planza@clinigene.com. Applicants should send, fax, or e-mail a curriculum vitae with references to Pat Lanza, President, Clinigene Laboratories, 240 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge, NY 11788; fax: (631) 952-4475; e-mail: planza@clinigene.com

Postdoctoral Researcher Position.—A postdoctoral researcher is sought to participate in an epidemiological study of body composition and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The position's primary focus will be analysis of data collected in ongoing studies and collaboration on manuscripts. Opportunities exist for expanding the scope of the research. A doctorate is required, by the starting date, in epidemiology, genetic epidemiology, sports medicine, biostatistics, exercise physiology, anthropology, human biology, nutrition, or a related field. An analytical background and research interests compatible with this team are preferred. The ability to work independently and cooperatively within a team of established investigators is essential. Current research interests within this team include genetic epidemiology, aging, biostatistical methods for serial analyses, and the role of changes in body composition throughout the life span in the development of cardiovascular and other age-related diseases. Review begins May 1, 2002. The position will remain open until filled. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Apply to Chair, Postdoctoral Search Committee, Lifespan Health Research Center, Wright State University SOM, 3171 Research Boulevard., Kettering, OH 45420-4014; fax: (937) 775-1456; e-mail: roger.siervogel@wright.edu; Web site: http://www.med.wright.edu/lhrc

Director of Cytogenetics.—The Medical Genetics Division of Children's Hospital and Research Center at Oakland has an immediate opening for a director of the cytogenetics laboratory. Candidates should have an M.D. and/or a Ph.D. and should be either certified in clinical cytogenetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) or eligible for such certification. ABMG eligibility or certification in clinical molecular genetics is desirable but is not required. Responsibilities will include direction of a large, full-service cytogenetics laboratory; teaching and staff educational activities; and consultation with physicians and genetic counselors. The laboratory performs testing on chorionic villus sampling, amniotic fluid, peripheral blood, oncology, and other tissue samples. Research opportunities are available through collaborative activities at the Children's Hospital Research Institute. Children's Hospital is located in the desirable East Bay of San Francisco and is the premier children's hospital of northern California. Inquiries should be directed to Dr. Edward Lammer, Director, Division of Medical Genetics, Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA 94609; fax: (510) 450-5874; e-mail: elammer@mail.cho.org

Meetings

International DNA Sampling Conference.—The 3d International DNA Sampling Conference will be held in Montreal, Canada, September 5–8, 2002. 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 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,” “Benefit-Sharing,” and “Patents.” 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.

The Lymphatic Continuum.—This conference, to be held May 3, 2002, will create an interdisciplinary forum bringing together leading biomedical scientists to address current and anticipated developments in lymphatic biology. Topics of discussion will include vasculogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, genetics of lymphatic disorders, and interstitial signaling mechanisms. Information regarding the program, the faculty, and registration can be viewed at our Web site (http://www.lymphaticresearch.org/LRF/index.html). This conference is jointly sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and the Lymphatic Research Foundation. Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit is available through the Department of Medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Request for Patient Referrals

Infantile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis.—Doctors at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) request the referral of patients (ages 6 mo to 3 years) with infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL), to participate in a pilot study to determine whether Cystagon has therapeutic potential for this disease. The research study is ongoing at the NIH's clinical center in Bethesda, MD. All study-related tests and medicines will be provided free of charge. For more information, please call toll-free: (800) 411-1222; TTY: (866) 411-1010; e-mail: prpl@cc.nih.gov; or see our Web site (http://www.cc.nih.gov/) (click on "Find a Study").