Dr. Rickard's laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Binghamton (State University of New York) is currently seeking exemplary individuals to fill positions at the PhD level. The research focus of the laboratory is on inter-bacterial signaling, coaggregation and the role of these two forms of communication in biofilm development within different ecosystems. Prospective candidates should first visit the laboratory homepage (http://bingweb.binghamton.edu/~arickard/AHRickard.htm) and read recent research papers before considering to apply. Positions can be filled as early as January 2009 and further positions are anticipated to be available during summer 2009. Candidates for PhD positions must be well-versed in microbiology theory and preferably have experience in molecular biology.

To apply: If you wish to apply, please email a cover letter and resume/CV to Dr. Alex Rickard. Dr. Rickard's email address is available at http://bingweb.binghamton.edu/~arickard/AHRickard.htm Please include the reference code in the subject line of the email (BIOF001).

Multi-Species Biofilm Development Group. Bacteria seldom exist as free floating solitary cells. In most environments they live in association with one-another and surfaces as part of multi-species biofilms. From freshwater environments to marine systems to the human oral cavity, these communities exhibit properties that are distinct from free floating cells. As such, the amalgamation of different species within these communities can enhance antimicrobial resistance, promote the breakdown and corrosion of surfaces as well as improve growth through physical communication, metabolic communication and the production of small diffusible inter-bacterial signaling molecules. How these different species adhere to one another, communicate with one another and grow as a unified community is critical to understanding how to control these communities. The aim of the research group is to understand the dynamics that promote the development and regulation of multi-species biofilm communities. Such an understanding will contribute to the development of novel and improved strategies to control biofilm communities in natural and man-made settings.

Binghamton University Biological Science Department. The Department of Biological Sciences offers BA, BS, a research MS, a non theses MA, and the PhD. There are 29 full-time faculty members and >65 graduate students. In addition to formal courses, intellectual life in the department includes a weekly seminar series that brings outside speakers on all aspects of biology, and numerous informal discussion groups initiated by students or faculty on specific topics of interest. Each spring, the department hosts an annual two-day research symposium where faculty and graduate students from Binghamton and other nearby institutions present their research findings.

Interdisciplinary interests of both faculty and graduate students extend the intellectual life beyond the boundaries of the department. Many members of other departments on campus are interested in biological issues ranging from protein synthesis to environmental policy to the evolution of human behavior. An advantage of Binghamton's size is that it is easy to meet members of other departments and collaborate across disciplines.

Social life in the department is relaxed and congenial. An active graduate student organization sponsors a weekly TGIF, called QED, immediately after the departmental seminar. Faculty members host annual events involving hikes, cross-country skiing, volleyball, and the not-to-be-missed Darwin's birthday party. As a whole, the department is quite athletic, with many avid runners, bikers, skiers, swimmers, climbers, and soccer players among our faculty, staff, and graduate students.