THE NEWSLETTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGISTS Volume 24, Number 2 March/April 1997

Preparing for a Record Turnout ill Vancouver

lant Biology '97: A View from the Pacific Rim, submitted from anywhere in the world. Second, it Pthrough a combination of factors and a lot of made the sorting and planning process for the hard work, has culminated in what promises to be program committee go much more smoothly than one of the largest and most international plant usual. Third, it will result in an on-line searchable science meetings ever. The American Society of abstract database and meeting program that will be Plant Physiologists and the Canadian Society of made accessible through ASPP's web page in April. Plant Physiologists, along with the help of the And last, a more complete and cohesive abstract Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists and the supplement and printed program will be the final Australian Society of Plant Physiologists, Inc., and result. the more widespread use of the Internet, have announced the meeting all over the world. Informa­ Oral and Poster Scheduling tion about the meeting has been available on ASPP's web page since last summer, and numerous l A]hiIe we are pleased and excited about the III messages about the conference have been posted to unprecedented number of abstract submis­ VV pertinent plant science newsgroups. Full-color sions for Plant Biology '97, the program committee advertisements have been displayed in the journals was also faced with a new set of scheduling or other advertising modes sponsored by all four challenges. By fully using the meeting room space societies. Officers and committee members of the available to us at our meeting venue in Vancouver, societies have been in constant touch bye-mail for we will be able to conduct six concurrent sessions many months and have journeyed to Vancouver and for oral presentations which, over four days, will Rockville to have two major face-to-face planning accommodate 288 talks. In past years this has been meetings. The coordination and cooperation among sufficient, but this year we had more than 450 these four diverse and dynamic societies has requests for the oral presentation format. The resulted in a conference program that will highlight program committee decided to move several of the the forefront of plant biology from a truly global large sessions (Environmental Response and perspective. Adaptation, Natural Products and Medicinals, Signal Transduction, and Transgenics and Biotech­ Electronic Submission of Abstracts Is a Success! nology), to an all-poster format, which, with only a small amount of additional fine tuning to the he new method of electronic submission of remaining sessions, got us down to the 288 that Tabstracts was widely accepted and used. By the could be accommodated. This year accentuates a time the program committee met in early March, trend that the program committee has been over 1,600 abstracts had been received. Over 90% monitoring and discussing for it number of years. were submitted via the World Wide Web. This more That is, in Vancouver, approximately the same streamlined method of submission has several amount of meeting time will be allocated to the benefits. First, it was easy for abstracts to be presentation of 288 oral sessions as to the viewing

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T Membership Survey Highlights T President's letter T Travel Grant Application T Editor-in-Chief Sought for THE PLANT CELL ASPP OFFICERS & STAFF Coming President Donald R. Orl (217·333·2093) President-ElecI Kennelh Keegstra (517·353·2270) Soon­ Immediate Past President Bob B. Buchanan (5 I0·642·3590) Secretary Registration Mary Jo Vesper 513·229-2502) Treasurer Mark Jacobs. .. 215·328-8039) Choir, Board of Trustees Materials for Douglas D. Randall (573·882·4847) Chair, Publications Committee Samuel I. Beale (401·863-3129) Plant Biology Chair, Committee on the Slotus of Women in Plant Physiology Ruth Alscher (540-231-6761) Choir, Committee on Minority AHoirs '97 Eugene L. Vigil (301-594-3900) Elected Members Natasha V. Raikhel (517-353-3518) Watch your Elizabeth Vierling (602-621-1601) Wendy F. Boss (919·515-3496) Sectional Representatives Midwestern mail and Daniel R. Bush (217·333-6109) Northeostern Subhash Minocha (603·862-3840) reg ister earl y. Southern Marc A. (ohn ; (504-388-1464) Washington, DC Jerry D. (ohen (301-504-5632) Western Sharman O'Neill (916-752-2435)

Headquarters Office 15501 Monona Drive Rockville, MD 20855-2768 USA Phone: 301-251-0569 Fax: 301·279·2996

Executive director, Kenneth M. Beam, ext. 15 ...... ([email protected]) ASPP NEWS is distributed to all Director of finance ond administration, Susan K. (hambers, ext. 11 ([email protected]) ASPP members and is published Accountant, Sondra A. Giancoli, ext. 10 ...... ([email protected]) six times annually, in odd­ Information specialist, Perry Masciana, ext. 46 numbered months. It is edited ...... ([email protected]) Member services coordinator, and prepared by ASPP stoff Sharon Kelly Mulheron, ext. 29 ([email protected]) from material provided by ASPP Receptionist, Estella (oley, ext. 22 ...... ([email protected]) members and other interested Public affairs director, Brian M. Hyps, ext. 14 parties. .. ([email protected]) Publications director, Jody (orison, ext. 17 ...... ([email protected]) (opy deadline is about the Publications Imistant, Sylvia Braxton, ext. 33 ...... ([email protected]) fifteenth day of the preceding Managing editor, Plant Physiology, even-numbered month (e.g., Deborah I. Weiner, ext. 18 ([email protected]) Managing editor, THE PLANT CELl, December 15 for January/ Judith E. Grollman, ext. 19 ([email protected]) February publication). Submit News II1Id Reviews editor, THE PLANT CELl, (rispin B. Taylor, ext. 21 ([email protected]) copy bye-moil whenever Production eelitor, Plant Physiology, possible; submit all other copy Lauren Ransome, ext. 30 ([email protected]) Production editor, Plont Physiology, by moil, not by fax. Suzanne M. White, ext. 23 ([email protected] Production editor, THE PLANT CELl, (atherine A. Balog~ ext. 16 ([email protected]) (ontacl: Jody (orison, Editor, Manuscript manager, Annelle Kessler, ext. 20 ASPP NEWS, 15501 Monona ...... ([email protected]) Manuscript assistant, Kimberly A. Davis, ext. 24 Drive, Rockville, MD 20855­ ...... ([email protected]) 2768 USA; e-mail Manuscripl assistant, Aphrodile Knoop, ext. 25 [email protected]; telephone ...... ([email protected]) 301-251-0560, ext. 17.

2 ______A_SP_P_N_EW_S _ continued from page 1

of -1400 posters. We would very much like Hoefnagel, Greg Vanlerberghe, Ann Umbach, address "Serendipity: From the Secretory your feedback on our proposal of experi­ and P. Finnegan Pathway to Aquaporins and Insect Genes" menting next year at the Madison meeting will be given by Dr. Maarten J. Chrispeels. with an all-poster format as well as your Workshops The CSPP Gold Medal Award address, "What suggestions for how the time now devoted to are Hemoglobins Doing in Plants?," will be oral presentations could be utilized to lant Biology '97 will also feature given by Dr. R6bert D. Hill. enhance the poster sessions. Pworkshops in several strategic areas. A Other functions not to be missed include special "Careers Workshop" targeted to the "Small Colleges Breakfast" scheduled for Minisymposia postdoctoral associates will take place on Sunday morning, August 3; the "Plant Saturday, August 2, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Runners Stampede" 5k and 10k Fun Run n addition to the poster and oral sessions, This workshop committee is composed of scheduled for Monday morning, August 4, in I our program will again feature five major Judy Verbeke, Dale Blevins, and Pam Green beautiful Stanley Park; and the "Pacific Rim symposia (already publicized) and eight and chaired by Elizabeth Vierling. Only a DinnerlDance" scheduled for Tuesday minisymposia. The very exciting limited number of slots are available in this evening, August 5. minisymposia line-up is as follows: workshop, so be sure to sign up early. The Education Workshop will be held on Monday, Registration (Be Sure to Check the Web!) Arabidopsis Genome Initiative August 4, from 7:00 to 10:00 PM. The title Chair: Karen Ketchum; Presenters: Nancy A. will be "Our Theories of Learning and How atch your mail for the Plant Biology '97 Federspiel, Steve Rounsley and Mike Cherry They Mfect Our Ability to Teach our Wregistration package in April. The Students," presented by Roger Bruning and hotellhousing forms, which can be printed Development ofthe Vascular System John Markwell. The committee on public and then faxed or mailed to ASPP's housing Chair and Presenter: Hiroo Fukuda; affairs will sponsor a workshop on Saturday, bureau, have been available on ASPP's web Presenters: Ross Whetten and Zheng-Hua Ye August 2, from 5:45 to 6:45 PM that will page since mid-March. The registration feature Martha Krebs, Director of the Office forms on the Internet will allow for on-line

Elevated CO2 of Energy Research, from the U.S. Depart­ registration. Other program details, Chair and Presenter: George Bowes; ment of Energy. This committee will also announcements of various satellite meetings Presenters: Pieter J.C. Kuiper and Rowan sponsor a workshop by Henry Miller of the arid links to general Vancouver information Sage Hoover Institute of Stanford University on can also be located through http://aspp.org. Monday, August 4, from 8:00 to 9:00 PM. From all indications this will be a large Heavy Metal Transport and Binding and dynamic meeting. Attendance very likely Chair and Presenter: Mary Lou Guerinot; Special Events will surpass 2,000. Vancouver is a popular Presenters: Peter Goldsbrough and Ilya destination in August, (even if you're not a Raskin he conference will also feature two plant biologist), so make your hotel and air Tluncheon programs. On Sunday, August reservations as soon as possible. Osmoprotectants: Targets for Metabolic 3, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM, the commit­ The Program Committee would like to Engineering tee on minority affairs will sponsor a thank all of the Plant Biology '97 attendees Chair and Presenter: Andrew Hanson; luncheon featuring Mariaelena Zavala. The and the four societies for the overwhelming Presenters: John Williamson and David title of Dr. Zavala's presentation will be "Life response to this meeting. We'll greet you all Rhodes Underground: A Radicle Perspective." The in Vancouver for a week of great science and committee on the status of women will great fun! Programmed Cell Death sponsor a luncheon on Monday, August 4, The Plant Biology '97 Program Committee Chair and Presenter: Jeff Dangl; Presenters: from 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM featuring Sue and Society Representatives: Guri Johal and Page Morgan Rosser. Dr. Rosser will speak on "Female­ ASPP: Roger Hangarter, David Ho, Friendly Science." Space will be limited for Ken Keegstra, Don Ort, Role ofSignal Transduction in the both luncheons so it would be wise to Mike Salvucci, Judy Verbeke, Mary Jo Vesper Cytoskeleton purchase your tickets with your meeting CSPP: Robert Guy, lain Taylor Chair and Presenter: Chris Staiger; Present­ registration. JSPP: Moritoshi lino, Hide lmaseki ers: TBA The ASPP and CSPP Awards Addresses and AuSPP: Paul Kriedemann, Joe Wiskich Ceremony will be an event not to be missed. ASPP Staff: Ken Beam, Susan Chambers Terminal Oxidases in Plant Respiration It will be held on Sunday, August 3, from Chair: Joe Wiskich; Presenters: Marcel 7:30 to 10:00 PM. The ASPP Hales Award

_....:.M=or;.:.;ch,-,-I"""Ap=ri.;....;ll..;",;99-'-J7,....:.Vo.:-'_24.L,,;.'N.;,.;..o.....:.2 _ 3 PRESIDENT'S LETfER T ALook Forward and a Look Back on the ASPP Education Foundation

he ASPP education foundation was son) and Jim Seidow (professor and dean, the welfare of society. The education Tofficially established by vote of the Duke University). foundation is the mechanism by which we membership circa 1995 but its origin is We are well on our way to developing can get projects such as these accomplished. thought to trace much further back in our effective programs to improve public Already the foundation is supporting the Society's history. According to ASPP understanding and appreciation of plant addition of a part-time staff person to the historical legend, Hans Kende's vision for a science. Bob Buchanan, Ken Keegstra, Mark Public Affairs Department to increase our foundation for our Society, presented at the Jacobs, Doug Randall, Jim Siedow, Ken public education efforts. business session of our annual meeting in Beam, and I have been joined by leaders from I hope that you will agree that there is a Pittsburgh, is credited with inspiring a then the committee on public affairs and the great deal to feel good about. I can't think younger Russell Jones to make the creation education committee in advancing the ideas that two years ago when we officially of a foundation the focus of his presidency. of ASPP members to the education founda­ launched the foundation we could have Clearly, we are indebted to Russell, as well as tion. The business leaders working with us hoped for more in such a short time. to former president Jim Siedow, for their on the foundation board have provided Nevertheless, I feel that the foundation is at leadership and hard work in those early valuable insight to program design. a very critical juncture in its development years. The modern era of the foundation is Last year, a study of the status of plant and that what we do this year and next will generally considered to have begun under science education was commissioned by the have a tremendous impact on whether the the presidency of Bob Buchanan during education foundation and provided us with foundation attains the major role in ASPP which time the mission and goals of the detailed feedback about the kinds of teaching that we envision for it. The appointed foundation were refined and adopted. tools that will be most readily accepted and members of our foundation board are a Although unchanged from that time they used by high school biology teachers to central key to success and they have bear repeating here. The broad mission of present plant biology to their students. demonstrated their commitment to ASPP in the ASPP Education foundation is to develop Perhaps the most significant outcome of this numerous ways including the contribution a broad understanding of the importance of study was to identify the opportunity for of $65,000 (Monsanto, $25,000; CIBA­ plant sciences in providing an on-going ASPP to influence the teaching of plant GEIGY, $25,000; Pioneer Hi-Bred, $15,000). economic supply of food, fiber, and renew­ science in entire school systems by working They are clearly prepared to help us raise able fuel as well as sustaining a healthy toward the inclusion of plant biology in funds and carry out our programs, but it environment. The four primary goals of the educational standards and model curricula would be naive not to recognize that these foundation emerge from this mission. in key states, and in the tests that measure individuals are inundated with requests for • To advance public understanding and progress toward educational standards. ASPP their efforts and, in time, will need to move appreciation of the value of the plant has already received funding from the on to focus on other areas. To engage these sciences to society. education foundation to begin to assess and leaders and to attract the services of those • To promote teaching of the plant sciences influence education standards and curricula. that would replace them we, as a whole at all levels. This study was conducted as a series of focus Society, need to respond in two ways: • To support the development of new groups at four locations around the U.S. and 1) we need to design strategic programs that initiatives in emerging areas of education in the report makes most interesting reading­ will have a measurable impact on how plants the plant sciences. let me now if you would like a copy. and plant science are understood and taught • To provide a means for individuals and It seems that we have come a long way in in our society; and organizations to support education and a short time and that the education founda­ 2) we need to show our commitment to and research in the plant sciences. tion is poised to move forward in major support of our own education foundation. Alright, so the look back on the history of ways, not only in secondary education, but As a demonstration of their commitment our foundation doesn't actually cover very also in public education where we envision to the education foundation, more than 7% many years-it's been just four and a half our activity and impact will be the greatest of ASPP members made a personal financial years since the Pittsburgh meeting in 1992. in the future. In the future, the foundation contribution to the foundation with their But much has been accomplished and envisions developing innovative teaching dues renewal this year. Others, particularly enough good things have happened that it's tools, sponsoring the development of those on the education and public affairs easy to think it has been much longer. The textbooks in plant biology, and adding a committees, have contributed with their foundation has a very active board of variety of teaching tools to the ASPP time and energies. This is a terrific begin­ directors that, in addition to the ASPP Website. We have already participated in ning but we need to engage more members executive officers, has six members ap­ providing expertise to the popular public in both areas. The ways in which the ASPP pointed by board chair Dick Laster. These television program "The Magic School Bus," education foundation serves our interests as include an impressive group of leaders from and very recently we've been invited to plant scientists are obvious: each of us will industry (Richard Barth, former president develop a living exhibit for Walt Disney in benefit professionally from a greater public and CEO, CIBA GEIGY; Hendrik Verfaillie, Orlando Florida. These are examples of clear understanding and appreciation of the work executive vice president, Monsanto; Charles opportunities by which ASPP can become an we do and the importance of sustained and Johnson, president and CEO, Pioneer Hi­ active and effective leader in the effort to increased public funding for plant science Bred) as well as two ASPP members, Charles impart a better understanding by the general research. Arntzen (president and CEO, Boyce Thomp- public of the importance of plant biology to Now it is incumbent on us to demonstrate 4 _L.- A_SP_P_N_EW_S _ to the companies that have invested in our ri1~ ideas-and to the foundations and corpora­ LITrER TO THE EDITOR tions that we will approach for funds in 1997 T and beyond-that the plant science commu­ nity is truly dedicated to enhancing the standing of our field through improved Editor: known before or since. He was, for example, education in classrooms and communities. very uncomfortable with the broadly Please add your name to the list of generous 1enjoyed the "Turning Point" article by accepted harsh criticism his colleagues were individual donors to the ASPP education Robert H. Burris. It fits exactly the theme leveling at Peter Mitchell. "He has good data. foundation. that Bob Buchanan had in mind when he They have popular notions." Donald R. Ort started the"Turning Point" articles during Similarly, I was sitting next to him once ASPP President, 1996-1997 his ASPP presidency. during a three-talk symposium; two of the USDNARS, University of Illinois, Urbana My high regard for Dr. Burris goes back to talks were heavily data-based, but the third, the early 1970s when 1worked three on aging, was total speculation. Dr. Burris, summers in his laboratory. Always under­ noticing that the lively discussion revolved stated about his own high qualities, a hint entirely around the talk on aging, com­ about his way of dealing with what others mented "When there are no data, everyone would consider impossible hurdles is found wants to get their oar in the water." in the article. But you had to read carefully 1eventually realized that these frequent _PE_OP_lE------1ri1~ to catch it: "After returning to the University gems, though sparely worded, were lessons T of Wisconsin, we built a ... mass spectrom­ in life for me and for hundreds of others who eter ... so we could continue our studies with were privileged to associate with Dr. Burris. Barbara N. Kunkel nitrogen 15." Otherwise stated, "What? We have no mass SPP member Dr. Barbara N. Kunkel, spectrometer? Well, let's build one." Not the Sincerely, A.assistant professor of biology at Washing­ normal response of most mortals. ton University in St. Louis, has been awarded Dr. Burris also evaluated the social Larry N Vanderhoef a $500,000 grant from the David and Lucile landscape of science better than anyone I've Chancellor, UC Davis Packard Foundation. The grant, to be distributed over five years, is given annually to outstanding scientists and engineers. Kunkel, among the first plant biologists to clone a disease-resistance gene, plans to use the grant funds to support her research on Twinning Program Grants for Estonia, plant pathogen interactions, with particular Latvia, and Lithuania emphasis on studying the molecular basis of pathogenicity of the bact~rial pathogens. The he office for Central Europe and Eurasia Packard Foundation awards 20 such grants Tof the National Research Council (NRC) each year to promising young university is accepting proposals for collaborative professors in the hope of persuading research programs that link individual U.S. exceptional scientists and engineers to scientists with their counterparts in Estonia, remain in academia to conduct basic Latvia, and Lithuania. Carlson Resigns as Publications research and to teach the next generation of The grants awarded under this round of Director science leaders. the 1\vinning Program will begin in September 1997 and run through December ody Carlson, ASPP publications director Martin Gibbs 1999. Subject to the availability of funding, l since 1989, has resigned from her position support will be provided for travel and living effective May 9, 1997. She is marrying ASPP he University of Illinois honored Plant expenses for research visits by American member Paul H. Moore, a USDNARS TPhysiology editor emeritus Martin Gibbs grantees and junior scientists from the same researcher based in Hawaii. with a College of Liberal Arts and Sciences institution to the countries listed above and Carlson, who was hired by ASPP in Alumni Achievement Award at its Homecom­ for visits by their foreign counterparts to the December 1987, was the first staff editor ever ing Weekend in November 1996. Dr. Gibbs, United States. Applicants may also request hired by the Society. She worked first as who earned his Ph.D. at the University of modest funding for scientific supplies, production editor on Plant Physiology, and Illinois in 1947, is Abraham S. and Gertrude telecommunications fees, and publication for two and a half years, from 1989 until Burg professor emeritus at Brandeis costs. 1991, worked as both publications director University. He was editor-in-chief of Plant Applications must be postmarked no later of the Society and production editor of Plant Physiology from 1963 until 1992. To than May 16, 1997. For more information on Physiology. In 1991, she assumed full time commemorate Gibbs's long years of service how to apply for this 1\vinning Program, the duties of publications director. to ASPP and to the science of plant physiol­ contact Office for Central Europe and Asearch for a new publications director is ogy, ASPP in 1962 established the Martin Eurasia (F02014), National Research now being conducted. Gibbs Medal to honor outstanding scholars Council, 2101 Constitution Avenue NW, in the plant sciences. Washington, DC 20418; telephone 202-334­ 2644, fax 202-334-2614, or e-mail [email protected]. _....!M~a~r(h!.!../~AEpri~ll~99~7L..:.,V~ol.=...24~,N~o~.2~ _ s _OB---::-ITU=AR:--IE_S----1(i1~ T

Melvin Calvin significant for a number of reasons, chief Melvin's love of plants shone daily by the among them that it was the first successful ever-present small flower or fir twig in his n January 8, 1997, Nobel Laureate application of carbon-14 as a tracer in lapel placed there by his wife. He joined OMelvin Calvin died in Berkeley, Califor­ discovering a metabolic pathway. ASPP in 1950 and served the Society as its nia, at the age of 85. Born in St. Paul, Calvin was known for impressive presenta­ president in 1963-1964, the only Nobel Minnesota, in 1911, Calvin earned his tions of his research and ideas. At one MAS Laureate to serve as the Society's president. bachelor's degree in chemistry at Michigan meeting, when he began his symposium He received ASPP's Stephen Hales Prize in College of Mining and Technology in 1931 lecture on the mechanism of photosynthesis 1956 "for charting the path of carbon in and his Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota in his usual hesitating manner, but ended photosynthesis." In 1971 he was elected in 1935. With a Rockefeller Foundation with a crescendo of rapid-fire supportive president of the American Chemical Society. fellowship, he worked two years with the information, the audience was deeply In addition to the Nobel Prize, he also held a scientific and cultural giant, Michael Polanyi, impressed with his solution of a central National Medal of Science. He was a member at the University of Manchester. By good problem of plant physiology. Even Professor of the National Academy of Sciences and a fortune he was invited by G. N. Lewis to join C. B. van Niel was so touched that he jumped foreign member of the Royal Society. the Department of Chemistry of the from his seat in the front rowand, with tears Andrew Benson University of California, Berkeley, as in his eyes, congratulated Melvin for the Scripps Institute of Oceanography instructor, to collaborate on Lewis's study of brilliant solution of the age-old problem. La Jolla, California the color of molecules. Melvin Calvin Glenn Seaborg, then was a fearless scientist, finishing his graduate totally unafraid to venture into new fields work with Lewis on the I Good men, dying {for Tom ap Reesl color of salts of like hot atom chemis­ trinitrotriphenylmethane try, carcinogenesis, [Editor's note: The following poem was written for (which I made for him), origin of life, immu­ Prof. Tom ap Rees, whose obituary appeared in the January/F'ebruary issue of ASPP News, and was and Melvin became life­ nochemistry, petroleum production from plants, read at his memorial service. We reprint it here long friends as they not just as a memorial to Prof. ap Rees, but also as began their long tenure farming, moon rock a memorial to the many plant physiologists who in the Department of analysis, development have passed away during the past year.] Chemistry. Glenn went of novel synthetic on to add new elements biomembrane models ood men, dying, leave a shocked to the atomic table while for plant photosystems. Gstillness Melvin added a new cycle He had no qualms as though, plunging from a cliffpath, to the metabolic chart. about publishing papers they had simply vanished. The lark which further research My first impressions of that soared as they left sings on, Melvin, in 1937-1938 soon undermined. The bracken still waves in the wind, Chemistry Department first was our suggestion seminars, were of his remarkable skills in for a C-4 cycle of photosynthetic carbon the hedgerows seem unmoved. asking the important questions. Visitors to reduction. I had isolated radioactive the laboratory were usually riddled with succinate from algae fed radioactive CO? in But good men, living, have left, on us, questions, designed to provide useful the dark, conditions where succinate ­ on all things, indelible marks information for the ongoing research. His accumulates. The fact that such a cycle as they passed. We are shot through questions often stimulated us and visitors provided no information on photosynthetic with the colour of their having been. alike to assemble our information and carbon dioxide reduction didn't bother him a Aphrase remains, a way of looking, bit. We just went on. The most exciting of provide, in the end, the answers. Most Some remembered gesture at table, difficult, though, was his "Well, what's new?" his failed hypotheses was his Thioctic Acid Sor:-:e unlooked-for generous act, at 8:00 every morning after having asked the Theory of Photosynthesis, which consumed same question at 5:30 on his way home the over a year's work by the group in the Old Some insight which, at the time, previous evening. By asking questions and Radiation Laboratory. Even I was enthusias­ seemed modest enough, an item quickly reading some books he felt comfort­ tic about it, while it lasted. As the several in the conversation which flowed around it, able in many fields of endeavor. He stimu­ pillars of evidence began to fall, Melvin was but which, like them, took root within us. lated and supported interdisciplinary unperturbed and went on to new approaches. thought and research. Among Calvin's skills was effective Good men, living, have leavened, management of personnel, budgets, In work that extended from 1945 until not in vain, the space around them. publication, consultancies, and presentations 1960, Calvin and his co-workers, using What they changed cannot now be radioactive carbon 14 to trace stages in the at important scientific conferences. From unchanged, process, helped explain how plants turn our viewpoint in the laboratory, there was a carbon dioxide and water into sugar during silent shield between Melvin's office and our in us or in anything. photosynthesis. For identifying the so-called research; this freed our time for total Calvin cycle, Calvin was awarded the Nobel dedication to the path of carbon in photo­ R. Gera/It Jones Prize for Chemistry in 1961. The work was synthesis. 10 October 1996 6 _L. -...:...A:::..SP:...:..P.:.:N=EW..:.:..=S _ Kenneth Vivian Thimann energy by higher plants was whether the for the Nobel Prize, but of comparable terminal oxidase in plants was the same as in stature. J\ man of extraordinary breadth in science, other aerobes. Spectroscopy and studies with He retired and continued his research at fiKenneth Vivian Thimann, who died inhibitors proved it was cytochrome oxidase. Santa Cruz in the Thimann Laboratories, January 15, 1997, encompassed the entire One of his early students at Harvard, renamed in his honor. After the death of his domain of plant physiology. He was born Beatrice Sweeney, demonstrated rapid wife, Anne, he joined a community of senior August 8, 1904, in Ashford, Kent, England. stimulation of protoplasmic streaming scholars sponsored by Haverford College. His 1924 B.Sc. was in chemistry at Imperial within minutes of adding auxin. This still From there he collaborated with his eldest College, London, but he also discovered stands as one of the earliest manifestations daughter, Vivianne Nachmias, M.D., at the bacteriology there. That life-long fascination of auxin action. In general, responses to University of Pennsylvania Medical School. with metabolic relationships among "lower auxin increased up to an optimum concen­ This led last year at age 91 to the final two of plants" culminated years later in his ground­ tration followed by inhibition at still higher his more than three hundred publications. breaking and insightful The Life ofBacteria. concentrations. This demonstrated that Outside of the lab, Kenneth Thimann He continued to the Ph.D. in physical plant growth and development could be founded a botanical garden for flora chemistry in 1928 studying contributions of controlled chemically by auxins and appropriate to the Mediterranean climate of constituent amino acids to the ionization of suggested a wealth of practical applications. Santa Cruz which includes species native to proteins, which led to a postdoctoral The observation that applied auxins could Australia and South Africa. His family wishes position at Cal tech. kill dicotyledonous weeds selectively among that any gifts be designated for The Arbore­ At Caltech, he met Hermann Dolk who monocotyledonous crops was a major tum Associates in his memory and addressed had brought F. W. Went's pioneering studies advance in agriculture. to the UCSC Foundation, UC Santa Cruz, CA of plant growth hormones, investigating The advent of gas chromatography made 95064. auxin's involvement in gravitropism. Their possible the detection of volatile emissions Bruce B. Stowe close friendship ended with Dolk's accidental from ripening fruits with sufficient sensitiv­ Mary Helen Goldsmith death but cemented Kenneth's interest in ity to detect ethylene. Stanley Burg's studies Yale University solving the secrets of tropisms in plants. made it clear that ethylene is the universal Agraduate student, James Bonner, showed fruit-ripening hormone and is broadly auxin production by Rhizopus was reduced involved in stem growth and herbicide effectiveness. on gelatin. As Thimann knew gelatin had no Ernest L. Spencer tryptophan, he suspected an indole was Notable is that Kenneth Thimann never lost sight of his goal to understand how the involved. He isolated indole acetic acid from SPP headquarters was recently informed entire plant functioned. He elaborated on the fungus cultures. Definitive identification of the death of emeritus member Dr. this in Hormone Action in the Whole Life of A of IAA in higher plants waited for his Ernest L. Spencer, who resided in Brookfield, Plants. students using improved organic analysis in Vermont. While he was actively working, Dr. Kenneth was recruited by the new the 1950s. Spencer was employed at the Gulf Coast University of California, Santa Cruz, in 1965 Went arrived at Caltech to replace Dolk, Experiment Station in Bradenton, Florida. to create a science college. He there led his whereupon Thimann joined him in investi­ Dr. Spencer joined ASPP in 1931, only seven students in elucidating the interactions gating the initiation of roQting by auxin and years after the Society was created. proved the root-forming hormone was between hormonal and environmental factors in senescence. The yellowing of identical with IAA. Rooting of cuttings J. A. De Greef became a major practical use of auxin. Their detached oat leaves is an active process, partnership produced the classic history accelerated by dark and retarded by light. r. 1. A. De Greef, from the Biology Phytohormones, still essential reading for Senescence begins with changes in mem­ Department of UIA in Wilrijk, Belgium, work in that field. brane permeability and a burst of synthesis D died on August 16, 1996. Dr. De Greef joined Thimann and Folke Skoog showed that of proteases. To a remarkable degree, the rate ASPP in 1968. auxin completely replaces the effect of the of senescence depends on the same processes shoot apical meristem in inhibiting out­ that regulate the opening and closing of growth of lateral buds. Thus, it became clear stomata. Cytokinins and ABA emerged as Reinhart Rusch that auxin is not just an elongation hor­ major regulators. In light the ABA content of mone, but could exert profound effects, the leaf increases with water stress or N­ r. Reinhart Rusch, a resident of Berlin, either stimulatory or inhibitory on plant deficiency; closing stomata and hastening DGermany, and a member of ASPP since development. senescence. Cytokinin exerts an opposing 1977, has recently died. In 1935, Thimann moved to Harvard. action driving down ABA; opening stomata While at Harvard, WWII led him to join a and retarding senescence. U.S. Navy civilian group statistically Dr. Thimann was president of ASPP in optimizing patterns of depth charging 1950, and five major national presidencies submarines. Kenneth Thimann is considered followed. The National Academy of Sciences a founder of the successful approach now elected him as did other honorary academies. known as Operations Research. Prestigious foreign appointments were to the He was devoted to teaching. Graduate Royal Society (London), Accademia students, postdoctorals, and visiting faculty Nazionale dei Lincei (Rome), and the on leave were all drawn to learn how plants Academie des Sciences (Paris). Major awards function. As modern concepts of biochemis­ included ASPP's own Stephen Hales Prize in try emerged, questions were revisited. A 1936 and the richly endowed Swiss Balzan fundamental question in the production of Prize, intended for those in fields not eligible

_-:.M:.:.::a:..:.:r(h:.-!../..:..:.Ar..:.:pri~ll..:...:99:..:..,7'I....:.V::.:..ol.::..:24"-..:1 N.:.:.o.:...::2 _ 7 ASPP TRAVEL AWARD PROGRAM Applications Due June 2

he Society has decided at the recommen­ establish networking opportunities at and students and faculty beginning their careers Tdation of the executive committee to beyond the meeting. The Society hopes that in plant science. Underrepresented minori­ support travel awards to students and faculty relationships thus formed will endure and ties are especially encouraged to apply. beginning their careers in plant sciences to that mentors will continue to participate Application forms for both travel grant the 1997 annual meeting in Vancouver, actively with awardees as they pursue careers applicants and persons volunteering to serve British Columbia. For this meeting, $25,000 in plant science. The minority affairs as mentors are included on the opposite page has been allocated from the Society's committee along with the committee on the and are due at ASPP headquarters by June 2, resources to fund the program. status of women in plant physiology will 1997. Applicants will be notified of the Aunique and critical aspect of the travel coordinate the processing of the applications decision of the committee by the middle of award program being adopted by ASPP is the and the identification of awardees. June, in time for registration at the preregis­ pairing of awardees with a mentor who has Awards for the Vancouver meeting will be tration rate. Questions about the travel similar research interests. Mentors, who will based upon the merit of the applications. award and mentoring program can be not be eligible for travel grants, will counsel Applications will be accepted from all directed to Deborah Weiner, telephone 301­ the awardee at the meeting and will help to undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral 251-0560, ext. 18, e-mail [email protected].

Editor-in-Chief, THE PLANT CELL

The American Society of Plant Physiologists is seeking a plant scientist to assume the duties and responsi­ bilities of editor-in-chief of the journal THE PLANT CELL effective July 1, 1998. The individual who takes the position must be able to make a five-year commitment to the journal.

The mission of THE PLANT CELL is rapid publication of cutting edge plant science research. Responsibili­ ties of the editor-in-chief are to possess a broad range of knowledge about the state of the art in plant molecular and cellular biology, provide the vision for the future direction of the journal, set journal editorial policy, select coeditors, assign manuscripts to coeditors, serve as an arbiter when publication decisions are in dispute, and work cooperatively with the managing editor and news and reviews editor to assure the efficient production of each month's issue.

To effect a smooth editorial transition, we plan to name a successor to the current editor-in-chief by the end of 1997. Individuals interested in either applying for the position or nominating a qualified individual are invited to do so in writing to the chair of the publications committee by June 1, 1997. Applicants should ascertain that their institutions will permit them to assume the duties and responsibilities of this position. Letters of nomination must indicate that the nominee is aware of and has approved his or her nomination. In both cases, the applicant or nominee must be prepared to begin the transition process no later than January 1998.

Applications and nominations will be evaluated by members of the publications committee, and the committee will recommend a candidate to the executive committee. It is planned that the publications committee will be able to make a recommendation at Plant Biology '97 in August in Vancouver, British Columbia, and that the executive committee will announce the name of the new editor-in-chief of THE PLANT CELL either at the meeting or shortly thereafter.

Submit letters of application or nominations for editor-in-chief of THE PLANT CELL by June 1, 1997, to Samuel I. Beale, Chair, ASPP Publications Committee, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown Univer­ sity, Providence, RI 02912. 8 _L- A_SP_P_N_EW_S _ ASPP TRAVEL GRANT APPLICATION FORM, 1997

ASPP is offering a limited number of travel grants for students and faculty beginning their careers to attend Plant Biology '97 in Vancouver. Underrepresented minorities (African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Alaska Natives and Pacific Island­ ers) are especially encouraged to apply. Application deadline is June 2, 1997. Applicants will be notified of committee's decision by June 16, 1997. Successful applicants will be introduced to a mentor who will be a member of the Society.

DIRECTIONS: Complete this form and mail with the following: • Brief curriculum vitae • Advisor's letter of recommendation including level of funds available, if any, for applicant travel (students only) • Current and pending support (faculty only) • Any additional sheets required to answer questions posed below Submit completed application and all attachments by June 2, 1997, to: Travel Grants, American Society of Plant Physiolo­ gists, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855-2768, or fax to 301-309-9196. For more information, contact minority affairs committee staff liaison Deborah Weiner, telephone 301-251-0560, ext. 18, e-mail [email protected].

NAME: CHECK ONE: STUDENT FACULTY

TELEPHONE: FAX: E-MAIL:

INSTITUTION:

STREET:

CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE:

ASPP MEMBER? YES NO

LIST PLANT SCIENCE ORGANIZATIONS IN WHICH YOU HOLD ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP:

ARE YOU APPLYING FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDS FROM OTHER ORGANIZATIONS? YES NO IF YES, FROM WHOM AND FOR HOW MUCH?

Briefly describe your current research focus. (If you intend to present a paper or poster, you may submit your abstract in lieu of this paragraph.)

On a separate page, write an essay in which you explain why attending a plant science meeting is important to your career development.

The following groups qualify as underrepresented minorities:

African American • Hispanic • Native American • Alaska Native • Pacific Islander Please circle the group to which you belong. ASPP MENTORING PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM, 1997

The ASPP seeks volunteers from the plant science community for a mentoring program designed to strengthen the academic development and active participation of students and faculty beginning their careers in plant science. ASPP has initiated a travel award program with the objective to provide support for students and faculty beginning their careers, with particular outreach to underrepresented minorities. ASPP recognizes that to increase participa­ tion of young scientists in plant sciences, it will be more readily realized with the assistance of mentors. At the national meeting, a mentor can play an important role by familiarizing a travel awardee with the cutting edge research in his or her area. Introducing the awardee to other colleagues, or providing an opportunity for informal discussions on career development and advancement is an anticipated outcome of mentor-awardee interaction. It is our hope that mentor-awardee relationships will endure over time. With this aim in mind, ASPP requests that plant scientists who volunteer for this mentoring program be willing to commit time beyond the initial contact. The Society views the role of a mentor as being critical to the success of the travel award program. This is an exciting and significant opportunity for members of ASPP, and one that is endorsed and supported by the executive com­ mittee. (Please note that mentors are not eligible for travel awards)

DIRECTIONS: Complete this form and mail with a brief curriculum vitae. Mentors will be matched with students and faculty who have similar research interests. Submit application and curriculum vitae by June 2, 1997, to: Mentoring Program, American Society of Plant Physiologists, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855-2768, or fax to 301-309-9196. Travel grant funds are not available to mentors. For more information, contact minority affairs committee staff liaison Deborah Weiner, telephone 301-251-0560, ext. 18, e-mail [email protected].

NAME:

POSITION:

TELEPHONE: FAX: E-MAIL:

INSTITUTION:

STREET:

CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE:

Please state your reasons for wanting to be a mentor in the travel grant program:

Please circle the group to which you belong:

African American • Hispanic • Native American • Pacific Islander • Caucasian • Asian • Other Highlights from the ASPP Membership Survey

he first-ever extensive survey of the ASPP ASPP members tend to be very experi­ Members also rated Plant Physiology highly Tmembership was conducted in the latter enced. Almost 22% had worked for over 30 for importance and satisfaction. ASPP News, half of 1996. The purpose of the survey was years in the field, and approximately 24% the ASPP annual meeting and the ASPP to review satisfaction with current member had worked 20 to 29 years. Only one-fifth Membership Directory also received high services and to assist in planning for the had worked for less than 10 years in the ratings for importance and satisfaction. future. The survey covered demographic field. Consistent with this significant information as well as questions concerning amount of experience, about 40% of the Possible future services or products ASPP's current and future products and respondents were from 45 to 64 years of age. services. ASPP selected an independent Almost one-third were from 36 to 44 years of nhanced on-line services, textbook association research consultant, Association age, and 21 % were age 35 or under. Epublishing, and electronic publishing Research, Inc. (ARI). ARI assisted with the were all considered to be a very important or design of the survey instrument, collection Why do members belong to ASPP? important possible new service by a majority and tabulation of survey responses, and of the members. This meshes wi th a initial analysis and presentation of the survey h pproximately one-third (33.6%) of the significant finding that over 92% of the information. All of the individual responses fisurvey respondents indicated they members surveyed have Internet access. to the survey were kept confidential by ARI. belonged to ASPP for all of the following Atotal of 1,915 survey forms were mailed reasons: to attend programs and purchase ASPP overall evaluation out to a random sample of ASPP members. publications, to support the organization, to ASPP received an excellent 50% response network with others in the field, and to ver three-fifths of the survey respon­ rate to the survey. This high response rate support what ASPP stands for. Somewhat Odents were very satisfied or satisfied indicates a high level of commitment to the less than one-third (29.8%) of the respon­ with their elected leaders, and about two­ Society. The results were available in time for dents said they belonged to attend some thirds gave one of the top two ratings to the the meeting of the membership committee programs and purchase some publications. headquarters professional staff. Just over in December 1996 and the executive Most (86.7%) of the respondents indicated two-thirds of the respondents gave one of the committee meeting in February 1997. The that they strongly agreed or agreed that top two ratings to ASPP for its representa­ initial analysis and the data are now ASPP provides useful/relevant information. tion of the interests of the profession, and accessible for each functional area of ASPP Almost as many (82.8%) of the respondents approximately 62% were very satisfied or to draw on when making decisions and strongly agreed or agreed that ASPP satisfied with ASPP's representation of their recommendations for future directions. The facilitates dissemination of scientific own professional interests. data obtained from this survey will also serve information, and 78.6% strongly agreed or as a baseline for further surveys in the agreed that ASPP provides opportunities for Where does ASPP go from here? future. publishing articles. ASPP also received high • ratings for communicating effectively with gain, we would like to thank all of the Who are ASPP members? members and for providing networking AASPP members who responded to the opportunities with colleagues. survey in such a timely fashion. The survey bout 60% of the survey respondents could not have been a success without this Awork at research universities and over Member satisfaction with publications and input. The data from the survey give a good 17% are employed by the government. A programs picture of where ASPP is today, and what smaller number, almost 7%, work for direction it should take in the near future. teaching colleges and the same number work he majority of members felt that THE The information obtained from this survey for industry employers. All other types of TPLANT CELL was a very important or will help guide ASPP well into the next employers, including students or important publication, and were very century. postdoctoral associates, comprise approxi­ satisfied or satisfied with this journal. mately 10% of ASPP's membership. TYPE OF EMPLOYER YEARS IN THE FIELD

ALL RESPONDENTS ALL RESPONDENTS

All Other Less than 10 30 or more (21.8%) Government j-- (9.4%) Industry (19.1%) ~ (17.5%) /-- (6.6%) Teaching Call. (6.6%)

10-14 (19.0%) 20-29 (23.6%)

Research Univ. _.--J 15-19 ----.J (59.9%) (16.5%) _~M~a~r(h'..!../~AEpri:.:...;ll~99:..:..7L.:.'V.:::..ol.::,.24:L:'N:..:::o:...:.2~ _ 11 PLANT BIOLOGY '97: A VIEW FROM THE PACIFIC RIM

The quadrennial joint annual meetings of the American Society of Plant Physiologists and the Canadian Society of Plant Physiologists (Societe Canadienne de Physiologie Vegetale)

with the participation of the Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists and the Australian Society of Plant Physiologists, Inc.

Vancouver, British Columbia Saturday, August 2, through Wednesday, August 6, 1997

Meijor Symposia

Plant Membrane Transport Organizers: Donald Ort and Ronald Poole

Roots in Soil: Rewriting the Textbooks Organizer: Margaret McCulley

Metabolic Engineering Organizer: Chris Somerville

Early Events in Hormone Signal Transduction Organizer: Julian Schroeder

Photoinhibition Organizer: Barry Osmond

For more information, see our World Wide Web site http://aspp.org or contact American Society of Plant Physiologists Telephone 301-251-0560 Fax 301-279-2996 E--Mail [email protected] _ 12 ------ASPPNEWS _P_Ub_li(_A_ff_ai_rs .... ~~ ASPP TESTIFIES ON LINKS BETWEEN PLANT RESEARCH AND WORLD NEEDS BEFORE SENATE AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE

n testimony presented before the Senate productivity as important to our national I Committee on Agriculture on March 13, security. ASPP committee on public affairs chair Lou Sherman linked plant research to: sustaining Biofuels the world food supply; preserving national The use of agricultural materials to security; improving the environment; and produce ethanol is important to help providing some deterrent to energy price alleviate our chronic petroleum trade deficit, shocks. which was $47 billion in 1995. Thanks to Many people look at the exceptional NRI research, use of residues from rice, corn, productivity of the American farmer and and sugarcane to make ethanol is nearing mistakenly conclude that increases in commercial production. research into crop production are unneces­ sary. However, despite good crop yields last Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Levels year, wheat, corn, and soybean prices We are a long way from being able to make achieved high levels, partially because gains a major impact on the rise of atmospheric in crop production are not as high as carbon dioxide. Plants and photosynthetic needed. World population continues to grow microorganisms play an important role in and the improving economies and increasing global carbon dioxide cycles and much more affluence in many parts of Asia are putting could be learned through appropriate increasing demand on food, Sherman noted. fundamental research. The growth of crop Sen. Richard Lugar (R-IN) chairs the Agriculture plants under a variety of different carbon Committee now reviewing research title of Farm Following are some additional comments dioxide levels needs to be understood as does Bill. Proposed an additional $500 million for from the testimony: the impact of marine microorganisms as a competitively awarded agricultural reseorch buffer for carbon dioxide. Oceans represent during last Congress. Agricultural Production and Food 70 percent of the world surface, and we have Availability/Scarcity very little knowledge as to how various Although the world's population contin­ microorganisms and plankton may help yields by roughly one percent annually. In ues to increase, the sarrfe cannot be said for regulate global carbon dioxide levels. While the coming years, biotechnology can be the area of useable cropland or the amount enhanced photosynthesis and commensurate expected to make breeding even more of fresh water per person. It will be more increases in crop production were the one efficient," Plucknett and Winkelmann in a important than ever to learn about the anticipated bright spot associated with September 1995 Scientific American article impact of various stresses on crop growth so increased carbon dioxide levels, this benefit noted. The authors termed these improved that marginal lands can be used effectively. is often not realized. Plant scientists are crops "power plants." Thus a better understanding of plant growth exploring limitations on the entire process in under drought stress and water stress will hopes of harnessing the benefits of carbon Model Systems become increasingly important. In addition, dioxide enrichment for agriculture. Addi­ Research has shown a greater similarity in it would be desirable to limit the reliance on tional support will allow us to gain a better the genomes of different cereal crops than fertilizers. Indeed, the use of fertilizer to understanding of factors that impact on crop previously expected. Four cereal species­ improve productivity may also have peaked, production and the environment. corn, wheat, sorghum and rice-contribute and we need to determine better ways to over 50 percent of world food production improve crop yield. All of these areas Sustainable Agriculture and the and these species differ tremendously in currently are being studied by plant Environment their abilities to grow under different scientists, but the level of support is Continued and enhanced support of USDA agronomic circumstances of drought, heat, insufficient. An increase in funding available for basic research into plant genetics and cold, and soil quality. However, recent to the National Research Initiative Competi­ plant growth will be a key to increased gains studies have shown that these plants all tive Grants Program will enable us to in crop production that the nation and the contain essentially the same gene content, enhance research in these areas and world will require. In addition to the gains in differing mainly in the particular alleles of ultimately improve world food productivity. production this research will bring, it offers these genes. Rice and sorghum can be used As the world grain carryover stocks fall positive effects for the environment. "The as model organisms to clone and understand below approximately 50 days of consump­ success of sustainable agriculture depends genes from corn, wheat, and the other large tion, the possibility of minor production fundamentally on making plants more genome cereals. An increase in the invest­ problems leading to great variations in prices efficient in converting sunlight, nutrients ment in plant genome research is vitally and food availability increases. Thus we must and water into food and fiber products. needed. look to research into improvements in crop Conventional plant breeding now boosts

continued 011 page 14

_.....:.M.:.:..:o~rch:.:..!./...:..A:r:.:Pr:.:....i1.:...:.19..:..:97J_1 Vc..:.ol:...::2..:..L.4,~N0:..c..;:..2 _ 13 continued from page 13

During the same hearing, testimony was nary training of plant biologists to meet the presented by the National Science Founda­ challenges posed by new scientific research tion (NSF). Mary Clutter, assistant director and modes of education. This program also for the Directorate for Biological Sciences supports the networking of scientists and a member of ASPp, discussed the merit working on all aspects of plant biology, and review process used by NSF. She also the development of partnerships in which explained the relationship of NSF to the they work together on common problems. "I mission agencies. am convinced that other interagency In Fiscal Year 1996, NSF took final action interactions of this type would be very on nearly 29,951 competitively reviewed productive and should be encouraged," Dr. proposals. Of these, 8,796 received awards. Clutter said. NSF received a total of 247,877 reviews to Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman aid in making these decisions. The proposals Richard Lugar (R-IN) is examining the way are reviewed for: research performance research is supported at other agencies and competence; intrinsic merit of the research; comparing it to the research conducted at utility or relevance; and the effect on the USDA. Chairman Lugar also distributed infrastructure of science and engineering. questions concerning agricultural research Clutter cited the successful partnership to the science community as part of his between NSF, DOE, and USDA in the review of the Research Title of the Farm Bill Collaborative Research in Plant Biology which needs to be reauthorized this year. program, which supports the interdiscipli- (See related story for ASPP's responses to these questions.)

ASPP Urges Support for NRI and ARS to Senate Agriculture (omnlittee

he American Society of Plant Physiolo­ reversal of the reduction in number of •A training grant program should be Tgists requested increased support for the ARS scientists is needed to adequately established to encourage young people to National Research Initiative Competitive meet substantial demands of Americans consider agricultural research for their Grants Program (NRICGP) and Agricultural and much of the world for high quality, careers. The lack of such training grants Research Service in responses submitted safe and affordable food. has been a severe deterrent to developing March 14 to questions from Senate Commit­ ASPP noted that the number of scientists appropriate manpower in the agricultural tee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry in the Agricultural Research Service has research system. Chair Richard Lugar (R-IN). The responses dropped from approximately 2,500 more Competitive challenge grants to were prepared for the committee review of than ten years ago to about 1,800 at present. create teachers and teaching teams current agricultural research programs This is a precariously low number and a very should be established to enable those supported by the Department of Agriculture careful analysis of manpower needs should interested in agricultural research, considered for reauthorization this year in be made. education and extension to develop the research title of the Farm Bill. With these principles in mind, the innovative teaching materials and to ASPP committee on public affairs chair comments offered a number of recommenda­ work with teachers at the K-12 and Lou Sherman pointed out that the current tions, including the following: university levels. system should not undergo dramatic • The National Research Initiative (NRI) A competitive equipment program revision, but that future investment by the should be funded at the $500 million per should be established to insure that federal government in agricultural research, year level. Use of a portion of commodity agricultural research and education extension and education should be based on price supports to fund this research, scientists have access to state-of-the-art the following four principles: particularly when market prices are high, equipment. 1. The research should be of value to more would provide farmers with the safety net ASPP said increased support for the NRI than one state. of research-generated production will provide the knowledge necessary to 2. The research portfolio should include an increases they will need to compete as assure the evolution of farming towards increase in research based on competitive transition payments are completed. The systems that enhance the environment and grants, i.e., invest money on the best model developed by Chairman Lugar in natural resource base upon which agricul­ science. proposing the Agricultural Competitive­ ture depends while also assuring safe, high­ 3. The research should be in the public ness Initiative should be used to provide quality products from plants and animals. At domain. As one example, it could be this support. the current funding level of less than $100 published in refereed scientific journals. • Increased funding sl10uld be provided to million, the NRI is able to fund only about 4. There should be recognition that a support ARS research. 20% of all proposals, when more than 50%

14 _'-- -....:.A-:S_pp_N_EWS_ are worthy of funding. Moreover, proposals with a particular problem, need, opportunity, gene-for-gene relationship to explain the are funded for an average of two-and-one­ or benefit in mind. Either way, applications genetics of plant-pathogen interactions, was half years, when three to four years is more are forthcoming. For example, the discovery made by ARS scientist H. H. FloI' while optimal, and the average funding per year is of how the crown-gall pathogen produces conducting research aimed at a practical only about $50,000, when $75-80,000 per disease on susceptible plants was done for solution to the problem of rust on flax in the year can be justified. Equally important, the the sake of understanding a natural phenom­ North Central states. Both approaches to total program has been limited to only enon, possibly with clues to human tumors basic research are important as part of the certain areas with no programs in place for and cancers. However, once it was revealed total mix of research programs supported by many deserving areas of agricultural science that the pathogen produces galls by the federal government. and engineering. inserting its own genes into the plant's DNA, ASPP also testified before the Senate In response to a question on basic the applications in agriculture were obvious; Committee on Agriculture in its review of research, ASPP pointed out that basic this basic discovery opened the field of issues in preparation for reauthorizing the research can be done purely for the sake of genetic engineering for plants. At the same Research Title of the farm Bill. (See related providing a greater fundamental understand­ time, one of the most basic contributions to story.) ing of natural phenomena, or it can be done genetics this century, the discovery of the

IN LETTER TO NATURE, ASPP CALLS FOR BASING DECISIONS ON SCIENCE BEFORE LABEI.ING OF "NOVEL FOODS"

he labeling of novel foods, including ge­ Conspicuously absent from the article was clearly expand the range of foreign genes Tnetically modified foods, would occur in any mention of views from within the that can be introduced into crops, the public Europe under an agreement reached after science community concerning an issue that debate centers principally on food safety years of negotiations by a joint committee of has fundamental scientific components. issues. The perceived novelty of "foreign" the European Parliament and the Council of Although disclosure of the contents of genes in foods may be responsible, at least in Ministers, which represents the 15 member food is an important issue, the potential part, for concerns about safety for human states, Nature reported in its December 12, categorization of food into genetically consumption and for the environment. 1996 issue. The compromise was welcomed modified and non-modified groups warrants Clearly, the inter-specific genetic modifica­ by both the European Consumers' Associa­ more discussion. tion of foods is not inherently new. Those tion and the Confederation of EU food and for example, triticale, a polyploid plant writing regulations which relate to a Drink Industries. The agreement was containing full copies of both rye and wheat scientific determination of safety of foods described as a "second-best solution" by a genomes was developed 60 years ago and is should give significant weight to input from member of the Parliament's'Green group. presently grown on more than a million the scientific community in addition to ASPP President Don o.rt wrote a letter hectares in Canada, Mexico and eastern concerns of other interests. The more the published in Nature on January 23, 1997, Europe. Modern plums contain chromo­ focus is kept on safety of the product for which suggested basing safety-related somes from cherry plums and blackthorn. humans and the environment with decisions conclusions on the best scientific findings Russian wheat has genes from both rye and made based on the most sound scientific before deciding on an action such as wild wheat grass and French plant breeders findings, rather than on novelty, the better labeling. following is the letter that Ort have introduced fungal eyespot disease the result should be for consumers and the wrote: resistance genes from goat grass into french environment. domestic wheats. This is a sampling of a Donald R. Ort Sir: Your News story "Europe agrees a much longer list which illustrates that many President, compromise on food labels" (Nature present day crops used to produce food for American Society of Plant Physiologists 384,502-503;1996) noted that consumer, humans have for years contained foreign USDNAgricultural Research Service food industry and environmental groups genes, and could arguably be considered and University of Illinois have weighed in with opinions on the newly novel foods, without the application of Urbana, Illinois proposed compromise concerning labeling of recombinant DNA technology. e-mail [email protected].\ife.uiuc.edu genetically modified foods in Europe. While newer transformation technologies

__M_0-erch.-:./_A-,-pr_il_19_97.L-.'V_ol_2...L4,_No_._2 ----'_ 15 FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA TO DRAW THOUSANDS OF PROPOSALS Committee on Public Affairs Includes Research on Phytonutrients Visits Hill, Executive Branch Offices

und for Rural America, the new competi­ The RFP groups the eight purposes into embers of the ASPP committee on Ftive grants program within the Depart­ three themes: international competitiveness, Mpublic affairs met with nearly 25 offices ment of Agriculture, is expected to attract efficiency and farm profitability; environ­ of Congress and the executive branch on thousands of proposals this year with one mental stewardship; and rural community March 10 to discuss opportunities offered by estimate as high as 4,000. enhancement. plant research in the areas of food, fiber, and Department officials cited the high The Fund for Rural America will comple­ energy production and in environmental interest in the program as an indication that ment the Department's existing portfolio of remediation. there is an obvious need for such a multi­ fundamental and applied research, extension, DOE Office of Energy Research director disciplinary research, education, and and higher education programs. The Martha Krebs explained her support for the extension program. Standard project grant program allows, for the first time, the Division of Energy Biosciences in an applications must be received by the integration of research, education, and afternoon meeting in her office with several Department on or before April 28, 1997. The extension activities for joint funding. members of the Committee. She pointed out Request for Proposals (RFP) has been posted Successful application and adoption of that the science community has been active on the ASPP internet home page. ASPP research findings requires explicit coordina­ in its support for this plant and microbial campus contacts were alerted the day of the tion with education and extension activities. research program within DOE. January 29 publication in the Federal Nearly $10 million in research, education, Patricia Dehmer, DOE Office of Basic Register. and extension funds will be made available Energy Sciences associate director, had a Program application materials can still be for three Secretary initiatives including on morning meeting with members of the obtained by contacting the USDA at 202-401­ research, education and extension to identify committee and discussed problems research 5048 or by sending a message with your and utilize phytonutrients with cancer programs face in the current budget name, mailing address (not e-mail), and prevention potential in the design of environment. She commended the members phone number to [email protected] and functional foods for disease prevention. of the committee for their efforts in support stating that you want a copy of the applica­ Current research on cancer and diet linkages of the program. Greg Dilworth, acting tion materials for the Fiscal Year 1997 Fund has led to the identification of more than director of the Division of Energy Bio­ Program. 600 plant-derived chemicals (phytochemicals sciences, participated in this meeting. Although the high number of proposals or phytonutrients) along with non-nutrient Committee chair Lou Sherman met with indicates broad interest in the program, one plant components with cancer-prevention his Congressman, Edward Pease (R-IN), and of the effects will be a low approval rate for potential. These include anti-oxidants such his staff as well as staff of Senator Dan Coats awards. The Department expects to award as beta carotene and vitamins E and C. (R-IN). Lou also participated in meetings nearly $33.5 million as grants to meritorious Further research is needed to understand the with Drs. Krebs, Dehmer, and Dilworth and applicants under the January 29 RFP. A independent and interactive effects of appropriations staff with jurisdiction over subsequent RFP for Fund for Rural America phytonutrients and to identify additional DOE. These included staffs of House (FRA) Centers will provide not more than protective components. Appropriations Committee on Water and $7.6 million of Fiscal Year 1997 funds. The RFP notes that genetic engineering Development Chair Joe McDade (R-PA) and 1\vo of the eight purposes of the program techniques make it possible to transfer, Senate Appropriations Committee on Energy under the statute and RFP directly related to enhance, or suppress specific genes from one and Water Development ranking Democrat plant science are: develop new crops, new plant species to another for the development Harry Reid (D-NV). Lou also testified hefore crop uses, and new agricultural applications of "functional foods." Functional foods refers of biotechnology; and preserve plant and to any modified food or food ingredient with animal germplasm. Plant research could also the potential to provide a health benefit and contribute to the remaining six purposes: to prevent diseases. Congress called for increase international competitiveness, greater research efforts to develop new efficiency and farm profitability; reduce varieties of fruits and vegetables for the economic and health risks; conserve and prevention of diet-related diseases in the enhance natural resources; increase Farm Bill last year although funding was not economic opportunities in farming and rural appropriated at that time. ASPP and the communities; and expand locally owned, American Cancer Society had discussed value-added processing. research in this area with USDA staff writing the RFP.

Sen. Lauch Faircloth (R-NC) serves on Appro­ priations Committee with jurisdiction over all federal spending far research and education.

16 _'-- A_S_pp_N_EW_S _ his Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) later that tion for their hearing. Keegstra also met week in testimony before the Senate with science staff of Congressman Vern Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Ehlers (R-MI). Ehlers was recently appointed Forestry, which Lugar chairs. (See related vice-chairman of the House Science story.) Committee and selected by the Speaker and Mary Helen Goldsmith discussed the need Chair to head up long range planning on for support of plant research with her science and technology. Keegstra also met Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro's (D-CT) with staff of Senator Reid, Congresswoman appropriations committee staff. DeLauro is a Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Sen. Spencer member of the House Appropriations Abraham (R-MI), and Drs. Krebs, Dehmer, Subcommittee on Agriculture, which makes and Dilworth. the first determination on spending for Jim Cook visited with his Congressman agricultural research. Mary Helen also met George Nethercutt's (R-WA) office, who, like with Sen. Joseph Lieberman's (D-CT) DeLauro, is a member of the House Appro­ legislative aide who is coordinating work priations Subcommittee on Agriculture. Jim with the new bipartisan Science & Technol­ also spoke with USDA Acting Under Secre­ ogy Caucus which includes Senaors tary for Research Education and Economics Lieberman, Bill Frist (R-TN), Jay Rockefeller Cathy Woteki. (D-WV), and Pete Domenici (R-NM). Among Beth Gantt was joined by Bob Rabson in the topics she discussed were the environ­ meeting with staff of Senator Paul Sarbanes mental benefits plant research can offer. (D-MD) and Science Committee staff of Mary Helen also met with Senator Chris Congresswoman Connie Morella (R-MD). Dodd's (D-CT) staff to discuss support for Morella is a senior member of the Science Sen. Spencer Abraham (R·MI) serves on Budget plant research and participated in the Committee, which has authorizing jurisdic­ Committee and science subcommittee with meeting with Drs. Dehmer and Dilworth. tion over NSF and DOE. Beth and Bob iurisdiction over NSF and NASA research. ASPP president-elect Ken Keegstra met provided Morella's committee staff with with Appropriations Committee staff in the information on plant research supported by supported research. Siedow also testified House and Senate with jurisdiction over NSF and DOE. Bob and Alan Darvill joined before the House Appropriations Subcom­ DOE and with Drs. Krebs, Dehmer, and in the meetings held March 10 in support of mittee on Agriculture the previous week. Dilworth. Keegstra's visits included staff of plant research along with members of the (See story in next issue of ASPP News.) Jim Congressman Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), who Committee. Beth participated in meetings also met with agriculture legislative staff of is a senior member of the House Appropria­ with DOE officials. Sen. Lauch Faircloth (R-NC) and with tions Subcommittee on Energy and Water . Jim Siedow met with staff of his Congress­ executive branch and appropriations staff Development with jurisdiction over the man Bob Etheridge's (D-NC) office. concerning DOE. Division of Energy Biosciences, and staff of Etheridge's office also expressed an interest Alan Darvill met with House Appropria­ Subcommittee chair McDade. These in conducting a visit to Duke University. tions Subcommittee on Energy and Water meetings led to the ASPP supplying follow­ Etheridge is a new member of Congress and Development ranking Democrat Vic Fazio's up information for these offices in prepara- a member of committees with authorizing (D-CA) staff; with McDade's and Reid's staff; jurisdiction over NSF, DOE, and USDA- and with his Congressman John Linder's (R­ GA) staff, who he is inviting out to his research facility. Bill Lucas, ASPP public affairs campus contact for the University of California, Davis, is maintaining constituent contact with Fazio's office, whose district includes the university. Committee members provided handouts of examples of leading plant research supported by USDA, NSF, and DOE for the offices they met with and extended invitations for the staff and members to visit their labs. ASPP executive director Ken Beam and public affairs director Brian Hyps joined in some of the meetings held March 10. The public affairs office assisted with coordination of some of the visits. The committee on public affairs held its general meeting at ASPP headquarters on March 9. If you would like more information on visiting your Congressional office or on inviting your member of Congress to visit your lab, you can discuss this with members Rep. Joseph Knollenberg [R-MI) serves on Sen. Joseph Lieberman ID·(T) serves on four­ of the committee on public affairs and also subcommittees with jurisdiction over spending member bipartisan science and technology contact Brian Hyps at 301-251-0560 or at for energy research and agricultural research. caucus. [email protected].

~_ _---'-M=or=ch:.!.../..:..:Apr.:..:ri.:...,:ll.:..;99:..:.J7,c..:..Vo::..1=-.;24L:.'N:..:..o.:...::2 17 ------~~ASPP Educotion Forum T

Edited by Bob Wise, Department of • Internet Directory for Botany http:// tic about the presentations and the materials Biology, University of Wisconsin www.helsinki.fi/kmuslbotmenu.html that were distributed. Many good ideas were Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI 54901 • Rice Genome Research Programme http:// collected by the ASPP members that will be e-mail [email protected] www.staff.or.jp/ used in future outreach projects. • Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Centre Study Looks at Retention of Undergraduates in http://nasc.nott.ac.uk! Eon Education Foundation Supports the the Sciences • Plant Science Education Network http:// Coalition for Education in the Life Sciences: nasc.nott.ac.uk:8100/home.html new book is available on the subject of • Max Planck Institutes http:// he E on Education Foundation has Athe retention of students in the under­ www.rzg.mpg.de/mpi.html Tawarded a two-year, $145,000 grant to graduate science curriculum. Elaine • European Molecular Biology Laboratory the Coalition for Education in the Life Seymour and Nancy Hewitt have written http://www.embl-heidelberg.de/ Sciences (CELS). CELS is a national "Talking about Leaving: Why Undergraduates • John Innes Centre http://www.uea.ac.uk! coalition of professional societies in the Leave the Sciences" (1997, Westview Press, nrp/jic/ biological sciences that have joined together 1-800-386-5656, hard cover, $49.95, an • USDA Agricultural Genome Information in an effort to improve undergraduate academic discount may be applicable, ISBN Server http://probe.nalusda.gov:8000/ education in the life sciences. The mission of 0-8133-8926-72). The study is based on index.html CELS is to bring the expertise and resources interviews with hundreds of students and is a of the life sciences professional societies to thought-provoking analysis of our current Beginners Guide to Surviving bear upon critical issues relating to life situation. (Submitted by Susan Singer, Undergraduate Teaching science undergraduate education in the Carleton College.) United States. ASPP is a founding member of ordon Uno (Univ. of Oklahoma) has CELS. Funding will support formal alliances Plant Physiology Laboratory Manuals to be on Gwritten a book entitled "Handbook on among professional societies to: (1) inspire Display at Vancouver Meeting Teaching Undergraduate Science Courses: A improvements in undergraduate education; Survival Training Manual." The 170-page (2) promote coherence and collaborations, ne of the largest tasks facing plant book is written for the beginning college and (3) enter the dialogue with other Ophysiology instructors is the selection instructor, although the subjects covered national initiatives about the critical (and successful completion) of meaningful have wide applicability to instructors components of biology to which all students laboratory exercises. Towards that end, many teaching at any upper level. The fourteen should be introduced during their under­ of us have put together manuals containing chapters deal with such issues as surviving graduate years. For more information, visit selected and modified exercises gleaned from your first year, course organization, student the CELS web site at http://www.wisc.edu/ a variety of sources or developed anew. A assessment, and the role of educational eels. The site has links to ten professional display of plant physiology laboratory technology in biology teaching. The manual scientific societies. (Submitted by Louise manuals is being put together for the is available for the cost of shipping and Liao, CELS Program Director, OW Madison.) Education Booth at Plant Biology '97 in handling of $5.00. Information on obtaining Vancouver. All persons who have developed a a copy can be received from Dr. Uno at manual or compilation of exercises are asked [email protected] (405-325-6281) or by GET THE to send one display copy to Bob Wise at the visiting the web site at http://www.ou.edu/ FRIDAY JOB HABIT above address (syllabus would be helpful as caslbotany-micro/faculty/uno-book.html. well). Please clearly indicate the instructor and home institution, and provide the name ASPP Represented at National NSTA Meeting Job listings on and address of a contact person should booth attendees have further questions. The ome 2,000 members of the National ASPP's home page materials will be on display at the booth SScience Teachers Association (NSTA) throughout the meeting. convened in San Francisco in December are updated every 1996 for the annual NSTA meeting. ASPP Friday. Plant-type Web Sites was invited to present laboratory exercises and resources pertaining to plant biology. Be sure to check he growth of the World Wide Web is hard Hector Flores (University of Pennsylvania) Tto keep track of. Nonetheless, here are and Tom Warne (University of Tennessee) put every week. Some some plant-related sites that contain together presentations on several educa­ significant information as well as links to tional projects that have been developed in jobs listed online are other botanical and/or physiological sites. Of their labs. In addition, Peggy Lemaux and not listed course, don't forget the ASPP site at http:// Bob Buchanan (both UC Berkeley) demon­ aspp.org. strated exercises developed by Dina Mandoli in the newsletter. • Federation of European Biochemical (University of Washington) who had Societies http://ubeclu.unibe.ch/mci/febs/ coordinated the workshop but was unable to http://aspp.org/JOBS/ index.html attend. The NSTA attendees were enthusias- 18 _l...------.:...A=SP:....:..P..:.:N=..EW.::.:..=S _ Don'tMiss the Boat.....

Sign up todayfor the Plant Biology '97Alaskan Cruise!... There is still time and cabins are available!

Join your colleaguesfrom Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan and the United States who have already signed up!

Plant Biology '97 attendees and their guests can enjoy a spectacular 7-day pre-conference Alaska Inside­ Passage cruise round-trip from Vancouver. Special discounted rates have been negotiated with Holland America Line for the Saturday, July 26,1997 sailing ofthe Nieuw Amsterdam. The ship will arrive back in Vancouver early on Saturday, August 2,1997, allowing ample time before the opening afternoon session ofPlant Biology '97. A tax-deductible portion ofeach cruise-fare will be donated to the ASPP Education Foundation. Join your colleagues for the vacation and learning opportunity ofa lifetime!

"As a biologist, Ifound the Alaskan cruise particularly rewarding. Not only was there an ecologist on board to present interesting observations/stories about the ecosystem in Alaska, but we also studied the nativeflora andfauna. For example, we observed whales, baldeagles, sea /ions, salmon, and exotic plants in their natural setting. Although we took the tripfor our vacation, it was also an educational experience." David Ho, Plant Biology '97 Program Committee, Washington University

"Take this opportunity to join your colleagues cruising Alaskan waters and at the same time make a contribution to ASPP's Education Foundation. " Donald Ort, ASPP President, USDAJARS, University ofIllinois

Key Features etC cruising the Alaskan waters on the Nieuw Amsterdam include:

• 7 nights accommodations - Tipping not required policy • 3 full gourmet meals daily; midnight buffet; lido buffet; 24-hour room service • Fully-equipped Spa/fitness center: 2 swimming pools, whirlpool, sauna & massage • Wide range ofsightseeing and shore excursions available • Opportunities to explore Alaskan ecosystem with plant biology colleagues • Interesting port/ecology lectures, live entertainment, casino, movies and more • Special cocktail party for Plant Biology '97attendees & Captain's cocktail party • Plant Biology '97 Special Edition Photo Album

Nieuw Amsterdam 7-day Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Itinerary: Ship's Registry: Netherlands Antilles.

July 26 1 Vancouver 5:00 pm July 27 2 Cruising the Inside Passage July 28 3 Juneau 2:00 pm 11:00 pm July 29 4 Skagway 7:00 am 8:00 pm July 30 5 Glacier Bay Cruising July 31 6 Ketchikan 10:00 am 6:00 pm Aug. 1 7 Cruising the Inside Passage Aug. 2 8 Vancouver 8:00 am

For more information contact Islands in the Sun Cruises at 1-800-CRUS-SUN or e-mail [email protected].. (j) Holland AmericaLine ATRADIT ION 0 F EXeEL LEN CE® Plant Biology '97 Alaska Cruise Registration Form Saturday, July 26 to Saturday, August 2,1997 (Fax or mailfor convenient registration)

Name (1st passenger): _ Name (2nd passenger): _ Address: _

Phone: _ Fax: ------E-mail: _ Cabin Preference: 1st choice 2nd choice _ Smoking Pref.: [] Yes [] No Dining Pref. & Table Size: [] Small [] Large; Main Seating [] 2nd Seating [] (Dining requests are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Requests for special diets or seating with a specific party, contact Islands in the Sun Cruises. Efforts will be made to honor all requests, subject to availability. Seatings: Breakfast: 1st - 7:30 am; 2nd - 8:30 am; Lunch: 1st- Noon; 2nd - 1:30 pm; Dinner: 1st - 6:00 pm; 2nd - 8:00 pm.) Sun Deck Navigation Deck Boat Deck - Payment by credit card or a check made payable to Islands in the Sun Cruises Upper Promenade Deck Promenade Deck - For best cabin/dining selection a deposit of US$ 350 per person is required as Main Deck ADeck soon as possible. Final payment is due by May 1, 1997. BDeck C Deck - Optional Cancellation Insurance (US $89 per person): [] Yes [] No [] American Express [] Visa [] Mastercard [] Discover Acct # Exp. Date: _

Signature: Category Cabin/Location L.. l~fi~lg·~I·I$.tan~~~a~p,··.~~<;:!< K Inside Standard/B Deck LV ····}··Iij~ig~llllliar;g,~~~[.!~.[~il!~~~~.··. I Inside Large/A Deck H Il:(sige·lillaligl;l1~()r··N1al"il[)eck G Outside Standard/C Deck FF ~!iltSige.!-'a)!g~~~·,.p~l~i·!i>,.~ck.'. F Outside Large/B or C Deck .1$1=' .·;.·~~d:~i(le Lar,ge/A;.,Qr;'$:,~~ck> E Outside Large/A or BOeck Ii) ·····G)utSide.La·rge/Ao.l!jMaitl'.:Deck." . C Outside Deluxe/Prom. or Boat Deck .. .""":'::':~ :j;~~~~~;~~:~:p.~l~xe/B.~~~~;:;~~Y~:::9,r-;$·g:~~::~~~~t:~:;: .:>:iL'::= \/':j A Outside Deluxe/Boat or Nav. Deck

Rates are per person based on 2 people sharing a cabin, and are subject to a port tax of US$ 149 per person. The Plant Biology '97 rates also include a US $100 per person tax-deductible donation to the ASPP Education Foundation, Rates are subject to change and availability. Information and rates for cabin share, single supplement or 3rd & 4th passenger rates are available upon request. Optional cancellation insurance, whicl'1 can only be selected at booking, is available for US$ 89 per person. Airfare is not included in prices, but may be b00ked on your own or with Islands in the Sun Cruises, *After 2/28/97

By Mail: Islands in the Sun Cruises By E-mail: [email protected] 10254 Wild Apple Circle By Fax: 301-208-0351 Gaithersburg, MD 20879 USA By Phone: 301-926-9102 or 800-CRUS-SUN

Space is Limited! Register Today! _TU_RN=IN=-GP_OI_NT--t~~ T BUMPING ALONG by Lawrence Bogorad (enzymes were at work to make serial subsequently prepared from spinach leaves Maria Moors Cabot Professor of Biology, decarboxylation products of the eight and designated PSG deaminase (2); the emeritus, Harvard University carboxyl porphyrin formed by condensing second enzyme, which we later isolated from four molecules of PBG) but also that a wheat germ, is Uro III cosynthase (3). Sy e bump into some Turning Points in substantial amount of Proto (protoporphy­ having a 55° C oven available by chance and Wscientific research by chance; we bring rin) had been made-lots of then unknown being quite naive about the stability of ourselves to others. Here are two: one of enzymes at work. Good! proteins, we had stumbled into the discovery each type. PSG has one acetic and one propionic acid that there were at least two enzymes I was a second year postdoctoral fellow side chain. The four possible isomeric involved in making the tetrapyrrolic studying chlorophyll biosynthesis with Sam tetrapyrroles that can be produced on paper precursor of porphyrins of the Uro III type Granick at what was then the Rockefeller from four molecules of PSG are designated and also found the basis for congenital Institute for Medical Research when I came Uro (uroporphyrins) I, II, III, and IV. The porphyria. There was a certain pleasure in upon my favorite uninvited Turning Point. biologically important Proto isomer IX, the having an extract of Chlorella reveal the During my first year there, I isolated precursor of cytochromes, catalase, heme, basis of a human disease. Chlorella mutants that had lesions in and chlorophylls, is a derivative of Uro III. Laurens Mets-then a beginning graduate chlorophyll biosynthesis and identified the That our very crude extracts could make student-and I started toward a Turning porphyrins they accumulated. Early in the Proto IX made us very happy-the enzymatic Point of the "deliberate" type when we set second year of my fellowship, the reactions looked like real biology. But we had out to locate a gene for "any chloroplast monopyrrole porphobilinogen (PBG) was needed to do an inactivated enzyme control protein." At the time it was clear that isolated from the urine of porphyria patients incubation. We had looked around the lab chloroplasts contain DNA and the prevailing and was crystallized by Cookson and for some easy way to inactivate enzymes and view was that chloroplasts were genetically Rimington in London. PBG seemed to be a decided that we could do this by simply autonomous. reasonable candidate for the precursor of incubating aliquots of our extracts in the 55° Erythromycin resistance in E. coli had tetrapyrroles. So, we set about becoming C oven we had operating for another been traced to a single protein on the 50S enzymologists with the objective of testing purpose. At that time, proteins were ribosomal subunit and erythromycin­ PBG as a substrate for porphyrin biosynthe­ generally thought to be very heat labile, and resistant strains of Chlamydomonas had sis. 55°C seemed pretty hot-we couldn't live at been identified by Sager and Ramanis (4). First, we collected fresll urine of patients that temperature for an hour so how could a From all of this it seemed reasonable that at various New York hospitals who were naked protein? To our surprise, treating the erythromycin-resistant Chlamydomonas suffering from acute porphyria-a hereditary extract in this way had no effect on the rate mutants might have one or more altered disease in which PBG accumulates and is at which the PSG was consumed, but when chloroplast ribosomal proteins. We proposed excreted. Then we isolated and crystallized we analyzed the products made with a heated to isolate resistant mutants, to determine by PBG from the urine. Following published extract we found that porphyrins of the Uro transmission genetics whether the resistance procedures, we started by adding mercuric III-Proto IX types were not produced but gene was nuclear or organellar, and to use acetate powder to four- to ten-liter contain­ instead all the products were related to Uro It gel electrophoresis to identify an altered ers of urine; we centrifuged out the precipi­ Uro I accumulates in certain porphyria ribosomal protein-if there was one. tate that formed and passed hydrogen sulfide diseases, e.g. congenital porphyria, in We isolated erythromycin-resistant through a slurry of mercury precipitate to humans. It is decarboxylated but only to mutants and found that anyone of three liberate the PSG. After centrifuging out the Copro (coproporphyrin) I. Both Uro I and different genetic loci (maybe more) could black precipitate and taking a few more Copro I accumulate to make trouble for the mutate to produce resistance. 1\vo of the steps, we crystallized the PBG. In all, this is patient. We realized immediately that our genes were inherited in a normal Mendelian not the sort of procedure that would be crude Chlorella extracts contained at least manner-most likely nuclear genes-and entered into in an open lab these days. two functionally related enzymes: one that the third in a uniparental manner, presum­ We knew how to grow Chlorella and consumed PBG to make a product that could ably a chloroplast gene. Each of the two thought the cells might be a reasonable become Uro I and a second enzyme, which nuclear mutations resulted in a modification source of enzymes. We collected cells, froze somehow acted on the product of the first of a different ribosomal protein (5, 6). So, and thawed them a few times, spun out the reaction or acted with the first enzyme to chloroplasts were not autonomous geneti­ solid material, and used the supernatant as a produce Uro III and its derivatives. By simple cally but depended on a very complex source of enzyme. (Our incubation mixtures heating we had converted Chlorella extracts cytoplasmic medium including ribosomal. also included rat liver mitochondria and from behaving like normal humans to proteins encoded by nuclear genes. Thus, ATP-magical substances for 1950s enzy­ extracts that acted like humans with well before the first chloroplast chromosome mologists.) To our delight, porphyrins congenital porphyria (I)! (The boiled control had been characterized physically, it was formed after PSG was incubated with our we prepared for the next experiment didn't clear that genes for elements of multimeric Chlorella extracts, etc. Our analyses showed do anything to PSG so we were satisfied that components, such as ribosomes, can be not only that there were porphyrins with we had become real enzymologists.) various numbers of carboxyl side chains The relatively heat-stable enzyme was continued on page 22

_-..:.M=a:..:.:r(h:..!../..:..:Apc.:ri.:....:ll..:...;99~7/~Vo::.:..1 =...;24L:,.'N.:..:.;o.:...;:2 ----..J_ 21 continued from page 21 References ganelles and eukaryotic genomes. Science 188: 891-898 dispersed in the nuclear and plastid ge­ 1. Bogorad, L. and Cranick, S. (1953) The nomes. Soon afterwards, Wildman and his enzymatic synthesis of porphyrins from colleagues showed that the large subunit of porphobilinogen. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase is U.S.A. 39: 1176-1188 transmitted in a non-Mendelian manner in 2. Bogorad, L. (i958) The enzymatic tobacco ( a chloroplast gene?) but that the synthesis of porphyrins from small subunit is encoded in a nuclear gene porphobilinogen. I. Uroporphyrin I. J. (7, 8). So, if the chloroplast started a new life BioI. Chern. 233: 501-509 in a nucleated cell as an endosymbiont, its 3. Bogorad, L. (1958) The enzymatic genes and gene products were in the same synthesis of porphyrins from compartment initially but now they are porphobilinogen. II. Uroporphyrin III. J. separated! BioI. Chern. 233: 510-515 For us, this was a 1Urning Point in 4. Sager, R. and Ramanis, Z. (1970) A thinking about how eukaryotic genomes genetic map of non-Mendelian genes in originated and evolved. One could imagine Chlamydomonas. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. that genes could become dispersed by U.S.A. 65: 593-600 transfers from the plastid-endosymbiont 5. Mets, L. and Bogorad, L. (1971) Mende­ genome to the nuclear genome. Or, apparent lian and uniparental alterations in dispersal could be by protein and gene erythromycin binding by plastid substitution: an organelle gene mutates to ribosomes. Science 174: 707-709 make its protein useless for the organelle 6. Mets, L.J. and Bogorad, L. (1972) Altered ribosome, for example, but the ribosome is chloroplast ribosomal proteins associated rescued if another protein in the cell, e.g., with erythromycin-resistant mutants in ohe encoded by a nuclear gene, substitutes two genetic systems of Chlamydomonas even poorly initially (9), etc. For those of us reinhardtii. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. engaged in experimental science, where we 69:12, 3770-3783 work to obtain data that will support or 7. Chan, P.H. and Wildman, S.C. (1972) destroy our favorite hypotheses, it is a heady Chloroplast DNA codes for the primary experience to be able to imagine, in an structure of the large subunit of fraction unfettered way, what has been happening I protein. Biochim. Biophys. Acta. 277: during three and a half billion years or so of 677-680 evolution of genomes and the shifting of 8. Kawashima N. and Wildman, S.C. (1972) genes over at least the last two billion years Mode of inheritance of primary structure or so. in relation to whether chloroplast or Both of these 1Urning Points, and happily nuclear DNA contains the code for a many more, help drown out the memories of chloroplast protein. Biochim. Biophys. having come to Turning Points where we Acta 262: 42-49 foolishly, at first, followed arrows pointed 9. Bogorad, L. (1975) Evolution of or- away from the truth.

Find the tables of contents and abstracts of each issue of Plant- Physiology and THE PLANT CELL on the ASPP homepage http://aspp.org Click on "Publications" Click onjournal title

_ 22 L- ASPPNEWS _ _Go_th----,-e_ri_n9_s----~~ T The newsletter publishes dates, titles, locations, and contact names and addresses for meetings, courses, seminars, and the like that are of interest to ASPP members. Submit announcements via e-mail to [email protected] or mail to Sylvia 1. Braxton, ASPP NEWS, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855-2768 USA. Faxed transmissions are not accepted.

May 20-30 Eighth NATO Advanced Study Institute Course: Cellular Integration of Signaling Pathways in Plant Development Maratea, Italy Organizers:; Robert Last, Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell, Ithaca, New York, USA; Fiorella Lo Schiavo, University of Padova, Padova, italy, Giorgio Morelli, National Institute of Nutrition, Rome, Italy, Natasha Raikhel, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA. For more information contact: Fiorella Lo Schiavo, fax 39 49 8276280, e-mail [email protected].

May 22-24 Radical Biology: An International Symposium in Root Biology The Pennsylvania State University University Park Contact: Dr. Hector E. Flores, The Pennsylvania State University, 315 Wartik Laboratory, University Park, PA 16802; telephone 814-865­ 2955, fax 814-863-7217, e-mail 1997 MAY [email protected] or visit our web site at http://www.cas.psu.edu/docs/cashome/ May 4-9 confshort/des95.html. APRIL International Conference on Nitrogen Assimilation: May 25-30 April 14-19 Molecular and Genetic Aspects 5th International Symposium on Grapevine 9th International Congress"on Isozymes, Tampa, Florida Physiology ISHS OIV Genes, and Gene Families Contact: Nitrogen Assimilation Meeting, Jerusalem, Israel San Antonio, Texas University of South Florida, College of Medicine, Organizer: Ben Ami Bravdo, Faculty of Agricul­ Contact: Ms. Daphne Wright, Congress Liaison, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular ture, Rehovot, POBI2, Israel, 76100, telephone Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research, Biology, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, 972 89471094, fax 972 89468263, e-mail P.O. Box 28147, San Antonio, TX 78228-0147; fax Tampa, FL 33612; telephone 813-974-3393, fax [email protected]. 210-670-3337, e-mail [email protected]. 813-974 5798, e-mail [email protected]. May 27-June I April 16-19 The Plant Workshop: Leaves Sixteenth Annual Missouri Symposium May 13-17 La Colle-sur-Loup, Nice, France Signs and Roadways: Protein Traffic and the The Third National ISU Model Organisers are: Cathie Martin, Sarah Hake, and Cytoskeleton Bioethics Institute Workshop Roland Douce. For full information and program University of Missouri, Columbia Michigan State University, East Lansing please contact: Leaves, IFAB Communications, Contact: IPG Symposium - 1997, Attn: Registra­ For more information contact: Dr. Gary Department of Biology, University of York, PO Box tion, University of Missouri-Columbia, 117 Comstock, 402 Catt Hall, Iowa State University, 373, York YOI 5YW, UK; telephone 44 (0) 1904 Schweitzer Hall, Columbia, MO 65211; telephone Ames, lA, 50011-1306; telephone 515-294-0054, 432940, fax 44 (0) 1904433029, e-mail 573-882-7796, fax 573-882-5635, e-mail Whitney e-mail [email protected]. [email protected]. Web site: http:// Keller at www.york.ac.uk/depts/biol/web/symposia/ [email protected]. May 20-27 leaves.htm. Short Course: Microinjection Techniques in April 18-19 Cell Biology Annual Meeting Marine Biological Laboratory JUNE Northeast Section-ASPP Woods Hole, Massachusetts Cornell University, Ithaca, New York Application deadline March 11, 1997. Contact: June 1-3 Contact: Philip D. Reid, Smith College, Depart­ Carol Hamel, Admissions Coordinator, Marine The 9th Annual Meeting of the National ment of Biological Sciences, Northampton, MA Biological Laboratory, 7 MBL Street, Woods Hole, Agricultural Biotechnology Council (NABC): 01063-0001; telephone 413-585-3818, fax 413­ MA 02543-1015; telephone 508-289-7401, e-mail Resource Management in Challenged 585-3786, e-mail [email protected]. [email protected], World Wide Web site http:// Environments www.mbl.edu. University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada Contact: NABC, 419 Boyce Thompson Institute, _-:;M=or:..:.:.ch:..<,./...:..;Ap<:.:..:ri,;....;ll..:..;99""",7/-:;Vo;;,;..1::...;24.1.-'-/N.:.:..o.:...:;;2 ----J_ 23 Tower Road, Ithaca, New York 14853; telephone June 25-28 telephone +49 711 459 3714, fax +49 711 459 607-254-4856, e-mail [email protected]. Fourth Annual "Teaching Research Ethics" 3295. Workshop June 2-5 Indiana University, Bloomington July 20-August 1 RNA Isolation and Analysis Course For information and a registration form contact: Summer Course: Plant Biochemistry 1997 Rutgers University Kenneth D. Pimple, Ph.D. "Teaching Research Washington State University, Pullman New Brunswick, New Jersey Ethics" Project Director, Poynter Center, Indiana For information and an application form, contact Contact: Dr. Gina-lee Toaldo, Office of Continuing University, 410 North Park Avenue, Bloomington Ms. Karen Maertens, PBRTC, Institute of Professional Education, Rutgers University-Cook IN 47405; telephone 812-855-0261, fax 812-855­ Biological Chemistry, 285 Clark Hall, P.O. Box College, P.O. Box 231, New Brunswick, NJ 08903­ 3315, e-mail [email protected], http:// 646340, Washington State University, Pullman, 0231; telephone 908-932-9271. www.indiana.edu/-poynter/index.html. WA 99164-6340; telephone 509-335-5496, fax 509-335-7643, e-mail [email protected]. June 8-13 June 25-29 Application deadline April 15, 1997. 1997 Gordon Conference on 8th International Arabidopsis Meeting Plant Cell Genetics and Development Madison, Wisconsin July 27-30 New England College Contact: Arabidopsis, e-mail 1997 American Agricultural Economics Henniker, New Hampshire [email protected], fax 608 262-3453. Association (MEA) Contact: Dr. Carlyle B. Storm, Gordon Research Annual Meeting Center-URI, P.O. Box 984, West Kingston, RI Toronto, Ontario, Canada 02892-0984; telephone 401-783-4011, fax 401­ JULY Registration information will be available on the 783-7644, e-mail [email protected]. MEA Website at http://www.aaea.org or by e­ July 2-5 mailing [email protected]. June 9-13 The Plant Secretory System: Separation and Characterization of Mechanisms, Pathways and Applications in Glycoprotein Oligosaccharides Biotechnology AUGUST Complex Carbohydrate Research Center The University of York, UK The University of Georgia, Athens For full information, programme and speaker August 2-6 Contact: Roberta Merkle, CCRC, 220 Riverbend information please contact the Secretariat: Plant Plant Biology '97 Rd., University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602­ Secretory System, !FAB Communications, A View from the Pacific Rim 4712; telephone 706-542-4402, fax 706-542-4412, Department of Biology, University of York, PO Bo>' Vancouver, BC. Canada e-mail [email protected]. 373, York Y01 5YW, UK; telephone 44 (0)1 904 The quadrennial combined annual meetings of 432940, fax 44 (0)1 904433029, e-mail the American Society of Plant Physiologists and June 14-18 [email protected]. Web site: http:// The Canadian Society of Plant Physiologists. 1997 Congress on in Vitro Biology: www.york.ac.uk/depts/biol/web/symposia/ Contact: Susan Chambers, 15501 Monona Drive, Cellular Mechanisms plantss.htm. Rockville, MD 20855; telephone 301-251-0560 Washington, D.C. ext. 11, fax 301-279-2996, e-mail Contact: Tiffany McMillan, telephone 410-992­ July 12-18 [email protected] or on the World Wide Web 0946, fax 410-992-0949, e-mail '97 Seventh International Controlled see URL http://aspp.org. [email protected], World Wide Web http:/ Atmosphere Research Conference /webtutor.tamu.edu/student9/congI997.htm. Davis, California August 8-12 For information contact: Ms. Pamela Moyer, PGRSA '97 June 16-20 Department of Pomology, University of California, The 24th Annual Meeting of the Structural Analysis of Oligosaccharides Davis 95616; telephone 916-752-6941, fax 916­ Plant Growth Regulation Society of America Complex Carbohydrate Research Center 752-8502, e-mail [email protected]. Atlanta, Georgia The University of Georgia, Athens Contact Dr. Joyce Latimer, Department of Contact: Roberta Merkle, CCRC, 220 Riverbend July 12-18 Horticulture, Georgia Experiment Station, Griffin, Rd., University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602­ European Symposium on GA 30223-1797; telephone 770-228-7398, fax 770­ 4712; telephone 706-542-4402, fax 706-542-4412, Photomorphogenesis (ESOP) 412-4764, e-mail e-mail [email protected]. University of Leicester, Leicester, UK [email protected]. Organizer: Harry Smith, Secretary: Carol Webster. June 18-19 To receive second circular contact: Carol Webster, August 10-14 19th Southern Forest Tree Physiology Workshop Department of Botany, University of Leciester, International Biometals Symposium College Station, Texas Leicester, LEI 7RH, UK; telephone +44-116-252­ University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada Contact: Ron Newton, telephone 409-845-8279, or 3381, fax +44-116-252-2791, e-mail For information see the IBS home page at http:// Liz McGee, Texas A & M University, HorUForest [email protected]. sandburg.unm.edu, or contact: International Science Building, Room 305, College Station, Biometals Symposium, the University of Calgary, Texas 77843-2135; telephone 409-845-5043, fax July 14-18 Conference Management Services, Attention: Ms. 409-845-6049, e-mail [email protected]. NMR of Carbohydrates Susan Austen, Olympic Volunteer Centre, 1833 Complex Carbohydrate Research Center Crowchild Tr. NW; Calgary, Alberta T2M 4S7, June 23-27 The University of Georgia, Athens Canada; telephone 403-220-6229, fax 403-284­ Mass Spectrometry and MSIMS Analysis of Contact: Roberta Merkle, CCRC, 220 Riverbend 4184, e-mail [email protected]. Glycoconjugates Rd., University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602­ Complex Carbohydrate Research Center 4712; telephone 706-542-4402, fax 706-542-4412, August 10-14 The University of Georgia, Athens e-mail [email protected]. Gordon Research Conference: Contact: Roberta Merkle, CCRC, 220 Riverbend Epigenetic Effects on Gene Expression Rd., University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602­ July 20-25 Plymouth, New Hampshire 4712; telephone 706-542-4402, fax 706-542-4412, International Symposium on Iron Steve Henikoff and Marjori Matzke, co-chairs. e-mail [email protected]. Nutrition and Interactions in Plants Contact: Gordon Research Conferences, University Universitlit Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany of Rhode Island, P.O. Box 984, West Kingston, RI For information, contact: Dr. Volker Romheld, 02892-0984; telephone 401-783-7644, fax 401­ Institut fur Pflanzenernahrung, Universitat 783-4011, e-mail [email protected]. Hohenheim, D 70593, Stuttgart, Germany; _ ASPPNEWS 24 '------August 12·16 September 21-27 April 27-May 2, 1998 Joint Meeting of the IUFRO Working Parties 5th International Congress The 3rd Asian Crop Science Conference: S.04·07 and S.04-06 International Society for Plant Molecular Biology Regional Production Strategies to Somatic Cell Genetics and The Republic of Singapore Meet Food Needs Toward The 21st Century Molecular Genetics of Trees Organizers: .Nam-Hai Chua, Rockefeller Univer­ Taichung, Taiwan Quebec City, Canada sity, and Robert Haselkorn, University of Chicago. For information, please contact: Jih Min Sung, Organizers: Pierre J. Charest and Armand Seguin. Contact: Congress Secretary, ISPMB, Department telephone 886-4-2870551, fax 886-4-2860267, e­ For more information contact: Pierre J. Charest, of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University mail [email protected]. Science Branch, Canadian Forest Service, 580 of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-7229; fax 1 706 542 Booth Street, 7th floor, Ontario, 2090, e-mail [email protected]. Canada, KIA OE4; telephone 613-947-9011, fax 613-947-9090, e-mail September 29-0ctober 3 [email protected]. International Symposium on Biotechnology of Tropical and Subtropical Species August 13-15 Brisbane, Australia Symposium on Seed Biology Conference convenor: Dr. Rod Drew, fax and Technology: 61 7 32863094, e-mail [email protected]. Applications and Advances For more information or to receive announce­ National Seed Storage Laboratory ments contact: Organizers Australia, PO Box Fort Collins, Colorado 1237, Milton Q4064, Australia; fax 617 33671471, For information contact: http://www.ars-grin.gov/ e-mail [email protected]. arslNoPlainslFtCollins/SEEDBIO/ or Eric E. Roos, USDA National Seed Storage Laboratory, 1111 South Mason St., Fort Collins, CO 80521-4500, e­ OCTOBER mail: [email protected], telephone 970­ 495-3205, fax 970-221-1427; or Greg Welbaum, October 25-28 Department of Horticulture, Saunders Hall, Workshop on the Biochemistry of Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA 24061-0327, Plant Phytate and Phytases telephone 540-231-5801, fax 540-231-3083. Copenhagen, Denmark Contact: Soren K. Rasmussen, Riso National August 25-29 Laboratory, Mil-301, P.O. Box 49. Dk-4000 5th International Congress on Amino Acids Roskilde, Denmark; fax 45 46 32 33 83, e-mail Chalkidiki, Greece [email protected]. Contact: Bijay K. Singh, American Cyanamid Company, P.O. Box 400, Princeton, NJ 08543­ October 26-31 0400; telephone 609-716-2066, fax 609-275-5216, Symposium on Soil Acidity and the Rhizophere e-mail [email protected] or Maria American Society of Agronomy Meeting Liakopoulou-Kyriakides, Department of Chemical Anaheim, California Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Contact: Nancy Cavallaro, Texas Tech University, 54006 Thessaloniki, Greece; telephone 3031 99 Department of Civil Engineering, Mail Stop 6193, e-mail [email protected]. 41023, Lubbock, TX 79409-5000; telephone 806­ 742-3481, ext. 226, fax 806-742-3488, e-mail [email protected] or SEPTEMBER [email protected].

September 7-11 International Symposium on Boron in NOVEMBER Soils and Plants Chiang Mai, Thailand November 22-25 Contact: Dr. B. Rerlkasem, Multiple Cropping IUFRO Symposium: Innovations in Center, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Forest Tree Seed & Nursery Technology Thailand 50200; fax 66-53-210000. Please request Raipur, India the 2nd circular. For information contact: Dr. S. C. Naithani, Organization Secretary-IUFRO Symposium '97, September 15-17 SOS In Life Sciences, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla Third International Conference on University, Raipur - 492010, India; telephone 91 Oxygen, Free radicals and Environmental 0771 26031, fax 91 0771 534283, e-mail Stress in Plants [email protected]. Pisa, Italy Contact: Flavia Navari-lzzo, e-mail [email protected]; Riccardo Izzo, e­ 1998 mail [email protected]; Mike Frank Quartacci, e-mail [email protected]; Cristina Sgherri, APRIL e-mail [email protected]. lstituto di Chimica agraria, Via S. Michele degli Scalzi, 2 April 6-8 1998 56124 Pisa Italy; telephone +39 50 571557 or International Meeting on Production and 571558, fax +39 50 598614.. Uses of Starch Edinburgh, Scotland Contact and mailing list: Dr Carol Duffus, Crop Science and Technology Department, SAC, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, Scotland; e­ mail [email protected]. _-.,;M;.:.:;o:...:.;rch,;":./-,-,A=pric:....;ll-,-,99;,,;,,,7,c....;.V.:..:..ol.:;..;24J..,;,'N..:.;;,o.;,.,;;;2 ----l_ 25 ASPP Placement Service

This form may be used only by members of the American Society of Plant Physiologists. Please print or type your placement information on this form (curriculum vitae will not be accepted) and send it to: Estella Coley, ASPP headquarters, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855-2768

LAST NAME TITLE FIRST NAME INITIAL

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CITY STATE ZIP COUNTRY

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I am seeking the following position (check all that apply): [] Permanent [] Temporary [] Postdoctoral ] Industrial [] Academic [] Government [ l USA only ] Outside USA US citizen? [] Yes [] No Date available~· _

Fields of interest, specialities, and publications titles: _

Thesis, dissertation topics, professor: _

Professional societies and honors: _

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Postdoctoral study (specialty and with whom, where, when): _

Employer and location From To Position, Title, Duties

References (names, addresses, telephone numbers): _AS_P_P_J_ob_PI_ac_e_m_en_'_Se_r_vi_ce----1~~ T I. Registering with the ASPP Placement Service and Obtaining Placement Files ASPP headquarters in Rockville, MD, operates a placement service in which are kept active two files of resumes of individuals who are seeking employment. Employers are urged to survey the resume files for those seeking permanent positions and those seeking postdoctoral or similar positions. The files cost $25 each and may be ordered from Ms. Estella Coley, ASPP Placement Service, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855-2768 USA. Those seeking employment should complete the Placement Service Form on the facing page to be included in the service.

II. Placing a Position Ad in ASPP News and on the ASPP World Wide Web Homepage Submit all ads by e-mail [email protected](orbymailtoSylviaJ.Braxton.15501MononaDrive.Rockville.MD 20855-2768; FAXED ADS ARE NOT ACCEPTED). A feeof$150 is charged for all academic/government/industry permanent positions and for all positions, regardless of rank, posted by private companies. Ifa fee is charged Jor your ad, please including billing information at the time the ad is submitted. • AcademiclGovernment/lndustry .Permanent Positions (Ph.D.): Limited to 200 words; ad will run 12 weeks on the Web and appear in one issue of ASPP News. (Hthead runs only on the Web, the word 'limit is waived.) • Postdoctoral Positions and Researchffechnical Positions (non-Ph.D.): At universities and government installations, limited to 100 words; at private companies, limited to 200 words. Ad will run 12 weeks on the Web and appear in one issue of ASPP News. (If the ad runs only on the Web, the word limits are waived.) • Fellowships, Traineeships, Graduate Assistantships, and etc.: Announcements of programs and fellowships or traineeships for students seeking advanced degrees run at no charge and without a word limit. They will run two times in ASPP News: the first time they will run full length in one issue of ASPP News; the second time they will include location, contact name and address, and reference to the original posting. These announcements will run on the ASPP World Wide Web Homepage for 12 weeks from the date of posting.

ACADEMIC/GOVERNMENT/INDUSTRY PERMANENT goals, transcripts, and three letters of recommen­ recommendation before June 1, 1997, to: Dr. POSITIONS (PH.D) dation to: Dr. Dennis P. Stimart, Search Commit­ Robert H. Stamps, UF/IFAS/CFREC, 2807 Binion tee Chair, Department of Horticulture, 1575 Road, Apopka, FL 32703.8504; telephone 407­ Assistant/Associate Professor Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706-1590; e"mail 884-2034, fax 352-392-9359, e-mail University of Wisconsin, Madison [email protected]. [email protected]. The University of Florida is (Received 01/14) an AAlEAlEEO employer. A 12-month tenure-track position (about 60% extension, 40% instruction) js available. This is Assistant Professor the lead position of an interdisciplinary effort The University of Florida, Apopka Assistant Professor among scientists in the Department of Horticul­ (Received 02/28) University of Minnesota, St. Paul ture, University of Wisconsin, Madison. Extension The University of Florida's Central Florida (Received 02/28) responsibilities: The incumbent will provide Research and Education Center is seeking A tenure-track, 12-month research/teaching statewide leadership in extension programs qualified candidates fora 12-month tenure­ position is available July 1, 1997, to: develop .crop serving Wisconsin's woody industries. Emphasis accruing 80% research and 20% extension molecular genetics research program emphasiz­ will be on environmentally responsible manage­ position. The successful candidate will conduct ing wheatlbarley; contribute to undergraduate/ ment in the urban landscape. Reliance on and basic and applied research on environmental and graduate education, and outreach activities in coordination among faculty in the allied cultural factors influencing production and plant biotechnology. Minimum qualifications: departments of soils,plant pathology, entomol­ postharvest quality of ornamental crops, with a Ph.D. in genetics, molecular biology, plant ogy, etc., is required to achieve the goals of this major emphasis on foliage and other plants used breeding, or related field; communication skills position. Clientele includes: county extension indoors. Aprimary goal will be to review, develop, and teaching ability. Desired qualifications faculty, landscape and institutional managers, and study the effects of management practices on include postdoctoral, experience in contemporary woody ornamental growers, arborists, private plant growth and quality and on the environment. crop molecular genetics research, collaborative landscape contractors, municipal forest managers, The appointee will be expected to compete research and teaching/education. Send resume, and homeowners. Instruction responsibilities: successfully for extramural funding and publ ish transcripts, a 1-2 page statement of personal Teaching will include introductory and advanced hislher research in national and international interests/goals relating to position's research and courses in woody plant ecology in managed refereed journals. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in educational responsibilities, and have three letters landscapes. Qualifications: Applicants must have a plant science with training in floriculture, plant of reference sent by May I, 1997, to; Dr. David completed a Ph.D. in plant sciences and have nutrition, plant physiology, or related field. Somers, Department. of Agronomy & Plant experience in the ecology and use of woody plant Research and greenhouse experience is highly Genetics, 1991 Buford Circle; University of materials. Date available: Applications received by desirable. Demonstrated ability in both oral and Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108; telephone 612­ May 15, 1997, will be consideration. Salary: written communications isessentiat Applicants 625-5769, e-mail somersgbiosci.umn.edu. The Competitive and commensurate with training and should submit a letter of application including.a University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity experience. Application: Applicants should send statement of interests and career goals, curricu­ educator and employer and specifically invites and their curriculum vitae, a statement of professional lum vitae, transcripts, and three letters of encourages applications from women and

_...::M::.::.ar:..:.:(h:..!../..:.:.ApE::.:ri:....:ll..;,;99:..:.J7,~Vo~1 ::..;24L:.IN:..:.:o.:.,.=2 ---J_ 27 minorities. For more information on this position and energetic requirements for targeting and research training and/or experience; degree must and the Department of Agronomy and Plant insertion of specific membrane proteins. be in hand at time of appointment. Submit a Genetics visit our web page at http:// Applicants should have experience in protein and letter of interest and resume to: Dr. Gary M. www.agro.agri.umn.edu/job_openings/index.htm. nucleic acid biochemistry. Interested applicants Garnder, Head, Department of Horticultural should send a current curriculum vitae and have Science, University of Minnesota, 305 Alderman three letters of reference sent to: Neil E. Hoffman, Hall, St. Paul, MN 55108. Filing deadline is Assistant Program Director Department of Plant Biology, Carnegie Institu­ December 31, 1997. The University of Minnesota CSREESIUSDA, Washington, D.C. tion, 290 Panama Street, Stanford, CA 94305; is an equal opportunity educator and employer. (Received 03/13) telephone 415-325-1521, fax 415-325-6857, e­ The National Research Initiative Competitive mail [email protected]. Grants Program of the U.S. Department of Postdoctoral Position Agriculture seeks a qualified scientist to serve as Calgene, Inc., Davis, California assistant program di rector for competitive grants Postdoctoral Research Associate (Received 02/04) administration in the area of general plant South Dakota State University, Brookings Apostdoctoral position is immediately available biology, or related plant science disciplines such (Received 01/29) for isolation of genes encoding membrane­ as genetics, biochemistry, photosynthesis, growth Apostdoctoral position is available on soybean associated enzymes involved in lipid synthesis. and development, pathology, weed biology, transformation and regeneration. Required: Ph.D Experience in protein purification as well as entomology, nematology, or biocontrol. in plant biology or related area, research molecular techniques is desirable. This position is Candidates must have an advanced degree with experience in plant tissue culture and plant for a minimum of two years with the possibility of major study in at least one of the areas listed molecular biology, effective oral and written extension. Publications of results is highly above or a closely related field. It is preferable that communications skills, and interpersonal encouraged. Calgene is proud to offer competitive the candidate have a Ph.D. or equivalent relations skills. Preferred: Experience in plant wages and a comprehensive benefits package. For specialized experience. This is a competitive transformation and regeneration, in vitro culture immediate consideration, send your letter of vacancy, open to all United States citizens. of soybean and other legumes, and analysis of interest, curriculum vitae, and names of three Closing date is April 16, 1997. For information on transgenic plants. Closing date: April 22, 1997. references to Cal gene, Inc., 1920 Fifth St., Davis, the position, contact: Dr. Ed Kaleikau, Division Contact: Dr. C.D. Carter, Plant Science Depart­ CA 95616, Attn: Human Resources, or fax it to Director, National Research Initiative Competitive ment, NPB 247 Box 2140C, SDSU, Brookings SD 916-753-1510. Find out more at http:// Grants Program, CSREESIUSDA, STOP 2241, 57007-2141; telephone 605-688-5536, fax 605­ www.calgene.com. EOE M/FIDN. 1400 Independence Avenue S.w., Washington D.C. 688-4452, e-mail [email protected] 20250-2241; telephone 202-401-1901, e-mail EEO employer/ADA reasonable accommodations [email protected]. For information on 605-688-6361 (TTNoice 605-688-4394). Postdoctoral Positions application procedures/forms, contact the Human Kwangju Institute of Scicencc Technology Resources Division, telephone 301-344-3960. Kwangju, Korea USDA is an equal opportunity employer. Postdoctoral Position (Received 02/05) University of Minnesota, The Kumho Life & Environmental Science USDA Potato Research Worksite Laboratory has postdoctoral openings in plant POSTDoaORAL POSITIONS East Grand Forks signaling, phytohormones and phytoremediation. (Received 01131) Positions available at $28,000-$30,000/yr plus Postdoctoral Research Associate A Ph.D candidate is sought to utilize biochemical/ rent-free apartment and utilities and meal USDA-ARS, Beltsville, Maryland molecular approaches to study the allelic subsidies, moving expenses up to $5,000, and (Received 01/16) differences, expression patterns, and physico­ economy airfares for the candidate and hislher Atwo-year position is available immediately to chemical and catalytic properties of isoforms of spouse. The postdoctoral fellowship is renewable define water- and nitrogen-use efficiency of crops UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase as they relate to after first two years dependent upon progress. and competing species in sustainable cropping cold-sweetening resistance in potatoes (Plant Candidates without regard to nationality are systems. Research will focus on reduced-tillage Physiol 113, Feb. 1997; J. Plant Phyiol 147:644, welcome to apply. Send curriculum vitae and systems featuring various cover crops and living 1996; Plant Physiol 101:1073, 1993.) Candidates arrange to send three letters of reference to: mulches in long-term sustainable agriculture should have experience in protein purification/ Kumho Life & Environmental Science Laboratory, research plots at Beltsville. Ph.D. in agronomy, characterization and molecular biology tech­ 572 Ssang-Am-Dong, Kwangju 506-712, Korea; ecology, weed science, plant physiology, or niques. Experience in the expression/purification fax 82-62-953-5085, e-mail, sustainable agriculture with background in the of proteins in/from bacterial systems would be in [email protected]. ecophysiology of multi-species plant the candidates favor. Funds are available for three interactionsis desired. Skill in use of automated years (starting time flexible - spring, 1997.) Send data collection systems. Contact: James D. curriculum vitae and names of three references Postdoctoral Position Anderson, USDA ARS, Bldg. 264 Room 104, to: Dr. Joe Sowokinos, P.O. Box 113, East Grand Waksman Institute, Rutgers University Beltsville, MD 20705; telephone 301-504-6537, e­ Forks, MN 56721; telephone 218-773-2473, fax Piscataway, New Jersey mail [email protected]. USDA is an equal 701-795-8348, e-mail (Received 02/07) opportunity employer. [email protected]. The University of Apostdoctoral position is available to study Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and genomic organization in maize. Research will employer. focus on the use of the transposon Ac as a tool to Postdoctoral Position search for genes in a defined region of the Carnegie Institution of Washington genome and to identify their function. Experience Stanford, California Research Positions in molecular biology essential; prior experience (Received 01/23) University of Minnesota, St. Paul with handling, cloning, and analysis of large DNA Apostdoctoral position is available as of April 1, (Received 01131) highly desirable. Interested individuals should 1997, to study the insertion of chloropJast­ The Department of Horticultural Science at the send a curriculum vitae and the names and encoded proteins into the thylakoid membrane University of Minnesota receives and evaluates addresses of three references to: Dr. Hugo K. using biochemical approaches. We are employing applications from candidates for temporary part­ Dooner, Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, an assay where we synthesize specific proteins in and full-time research positions continuously. Piscataway, NJ 08855; fax 908-445-5735, e-mail chloroplast lysates and reconstitute the targeting Positions become available throughout the year, [email protected]. of ribosome-nascent chain complexes to the and are not continually available. Open temporary thylakoid membrane. Using this ribosome­ positions may be obtainable by persons holding dependent assay, we seek to determine the factor an earned doctorate degree with applicable

28 _'- A_S_pp_N_EW_S _ Research Associate on the research programs of Drs. Sayre and Postdoctoral Position Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, Georgia Gustafson can be obtained from departmental web University of Nevada, Reno (Received 02/10) pages at: http://www.biosci.ohio-state.edu/ and at: (Received 02/21) The Fort Valley State University School of http://www.chemistry.ohio-state.edu/. Please send Aposition is available to explore molecular Agriculture, Home Economics, and Allied a resume and the names, e-mail addresses, and genetic approach to dissect carotenoid synthesis Programs, has a non-tenure track research phone numbers of three referees. and function in plants in Arabidopsis and associate position available. Responsibilities: marigold flowers. Multiple mutations defining key Establish tissue culture procedures and protocols biosynthetic steps have been identified and using explants to develop a regeneration system Postdoctoral Research Associate characterized (Plant Cell 8: 1627-1639; 8:1613­ for sweetpotato; develop gene transfer system and USDAIARS/SRRC, New Orleans, Louisiana 1626) and cDNAs for all steps of the pathway are develop transgenic plants using biolistic gun; (Received 02/14) available. These tools are being used to modify characterization of transgenic plants; help Apostdoctoral research associate position is flux through the pathway and the accumulation of determine DNA sequence and construct vectors. available immediately for a recent Ph.D. to work specific carotenoids to address biosynthetic, Qualifications: Ph.D. in plant science with proven on the project "Alterations in cotton fiber regulatory and functional questions. Previous expertise and success in plant regeneration and structure because of shrinkage, mercerization and molecular and/or biochemical experience is transformation; practical knowledge of molecular laundering". The candidate should have desirable, prior experience with carotenoids is not biology techniques. Application procedure: Send a experience in optical and electron microscopy as necessary. Position available immediately. Contact letter of application; a current resume; copies of applied to fibers and x-ray diffraction to study Dean DellaPenna, e-mail [email protected]. graduate and undergraduate transcripts; and the changes in fiber structure and morphology due to names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at commercial practices. Knowledge of structure of least three professional references to: Search plant cell walls and cellulose polymorphism will Postdoctoral Position Committee, c/o Sarwan Dhir, Agriculture be important in this work. Send resume to Drs. AI University of Nevada, Reno Research Station, Post Office Box 5744, Fort French or K. Rajasekaran, USDAIARS/SRRC, (Received 02/21) Valley State University, Fort Valley, Georgia Cotton Fiber Quality, noo Robert E. Lee Blvd., Aposition is available spring 1997 to study 31030-3298; 912-825-6344, fax 912-825-6376, e­ New Orleans, LA 70124; telephone 504-286-4482, tocopherol synthesis and function in plants. The mail [email protected]. Review of e-mail [email protected]. USDA-ARS is tocopherol biosynthetic pathway is being applications will begin on March 1, 1997. an equal opportunity employer. dissected in Arabidopsis and multiple mutations Applications will be received until position is defining key biosynthetic steps have been filled. Salary is commensurate with training and identified and characterized (See Plant Cell experience. The beginning date is April 1, 1997 or Postdoctoral Position 7:2139-2149). cDNAs for one locus have been later. Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada cloned and are being functionally studied. This (Received 02/14) position is to pursue isolationlfunctional analysis Apostdoctoral position is available to study the of a second locus, pds2 (encoding a prenyl/phytyl Postdoctoral Researcher biochemical and physiological aspects of the transferase), by functional complementation in Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge metabolic interactions of carbon and nitrogen in bacterial systems and a separate transposon (Received 02/13) green algae and vascular plants. Current emphasis tagging-based approach in Arabidopsis. Previous A postdoctoral position is anticipated for is on the identification and characterization of the experience inmolecular techniques, genetics or investigating membrane lipid biosynthesis in key enzymes in carbon metabolism involved in functional complementation would be helpful. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Studies will include this interaction. Research involves protein Contact Dean DellaPenna, e-mail defining pathways and compartmentalization of biochemistry including purification and protein [email protected]. synthesis and extending this to examine chemistry, metabolite determinations, and regulation of membrane lipid' synthesis during the measurement of physiological parameters cell cycle. APh.D. or equivalent degree is including gas exchange, nutrient uptake, and Assistant Specialist required. Experience in plant biochemistry/ metabolic fluxes. Send cover letter outlining your The Plant Gene Expression Center molecular biology is preferred. The application research interests and experience, curriculum University of California, Berkeley deadline is March 31, 1997, or until a candidate is vitae, reprints and the names, addresses, and (Received 02/26) selected. Please send a letter of interest, telephone numbers of three to five references to: Aposition is available to investigate the action of curriculum vitae, and a list of at least three Dr. David H. Turpin, Department of Biology, plant disease resistance genes. The objective of references with address, phone number, and e­ Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6, this work will be to isolate R genes and to mail address to: Dr. Thomas S. Moore, Jr., Canada or [email protected]. determine the relationship between genomic Department of Plant Biology, Life Sciences organization and gene expression. Experience in Building Room 502, Louisiana State University, genomics and molecular biology is essential. Baton Rouge, LA 70803-1705; telephone 504-388­ Postdoctoral Fellowship Demonstrated experience in large insert library 8557, fax 504-388-8459, e-mail Waksman Institute, Rutgers University construction is preferred. Send curriculum vitae [email protected]. LSU is an equal Piscataway, New Jersey and names of three referees, by April 30, 1997, to: opportunity/affirmative action employee. (Received 02/19) Dr. Barbara Baker, Plant Gene Expression Center, Apostdoctoral research position is available to 800 Buchanan Street, Albany, CA, 94710; fax 510­ study signal transduction during induction of 559-5678. The University of California is an equal Postdoctoral Position disease resistance to viral infections of tobacco opportunity/affirmative action employer. Ohio State University, Columbus and Arabidopsis. Genetic, molecular, and (Received 02/13) biochemical approaches are being utilized. Ajoint postdoctoral position will become Emphasis is being placed on defining components Postdoctoral Position available June 1, 1997, to work on the time of these pathways, particularly the salicylic acid Michigan Technological University, Houghton resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy of signaling pathway (PNAS, 1996, 93:14972, Plant (Received 02/27) recombinant photosystem 11 reaction center J., 1996, 10:1089; JBC, 1996, 271:28492; MPMI, The project is for recombinant expression of particles (from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii). The 1997, 10:69). Applicants should have research lignin-specific O-methyltransferases in E. coli and candidate will work jointly in the laboratories of experience in genetics, molecular biology, and/or Pichia with work on purification, properties and Dr. Richard Sayre in the Departments of biochemistry. Send a curriculum vitae and a cover site-directed mutagenesis. The project is funded Biochemistry and Plant Biology and Dr. Terry letter detailing experience and have three letters by USDA. The position is available now and will Gustafson in the Department of Chemistry at of recommendation sent to: Daniel Klessig, last until the end of the summer, 1997, with Ohio State University. Acompetitive salary will be Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, P. O. Box possible extension if renewal grant is funded. offered with full health benefits. More information 759, Piscataway, N. J. 08855. Rutgers University is Contact: Professor Wilbur H. (Bill) Campbell, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan

_....:.M:.:.::a:..:.:r(h:..t../...:.:Ac.:.;pri~ll..:..;99:..:...7(c...:.V.:.;..ol.=..;24:.L:.( N.:..=.o.:...=2 --'_ 29 Technological University, Houghton MI 49931; Postdoctoral Position FELLOWSHIPS, TRAINEESHIPS, GRADUATE telephone 906-4&7-2214, fax 906-487-3167, e­ University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia mail [email protected]. (Received 03/10) ASSISTANTSHIPS, AND ETC. Apostdoctoral position is available in July 1997 to study tissue culture, transformation, and Postdoctoral Research Associate regeneration of mango. We are interested in Graduate Assistantship USDA-ARS Western Wheat Quality Lab optimizing mango transformation for several University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada Pullman, Washington economically important mango varieties in (Received 03/13) (Received 02/27) Southeast Asia. The project also includes papaya Agraduate research assistantship is available in Plants objectives are to identify and characterize transformation. This is an international project the Department of Biological Sciences at the molecular and biochemical components of wheat with universities in the Philippines and Malaysia University of Calgary beginning September 1997. endosperm relating to color/discoloration of Asian and will probably involve short trips to those Prospective students must apply and be accepted noodle products. Salary for this GS-11/12 position countries. Candidates must have experience in into the Graduate Studies Program. Ph.D. ($37,507 - $58,442) will be based on qualifications tissue culture/transformation of non-standard students interested in the biochemistry and and experience. Contact Dr. Craig F. Morris, plants. Please send cover letter describing molecular biology of alkaloid biosynthesis are Wheat Quality Lab, Box 646394, E-202 FSHN research experience, curriculum vitae, and list of preferred, but outstanding students without a East, WSU, Pullman, WA 99164-6394; or e-mail three references with addresses, phone numbers, M.Sc. are encouraged to apply. Students may work [email protected]. A resume, or and e-mail to: Dr. Jimmy Botella, Plant Genetic on a variety of topics related to protein purifica­ curriculum vitae, with references, is acceptable Engineering Laboratory, Department of Botany, tion, gene identification, gene regulation, genetic for application. The position will remain open University of Queensland, Brisbane Qld-40n, engineering, and subcellular protein targeting. until filled. Candidates will be considered as Australia; e-mail [email protected]. One project concerns the disse.ction of promoters applications are received. ARS is an equal from alkaloid biosynthetic genes in opium poppy, opportunity employer. with the aim of isolating and characterizing cis­ Postdoctoral Position acting elements and trans-acting factors involved University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia in their regulation. Another project involves the Postdoctoral Positions (Received 03/10) purification of a key alkaloid biosynthetic enzyme McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada A postdoctoral position will be available in July and the cloning of the corresponding eDNA. The (Received 03/04) 1997 to study molecular biology of ripening in successful candidate should have excellent grades Two postdoctoral positions are available . mango and papaya. This is an international and a strong· course and/or research background immediately to investigate the role of MITEs project that includes other universities in in biochemistry and molecular biology. For (miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements) Philippines and Malaysia and will probably involve further information contact Dr. Peter Facchini, and other transposable elements in plant gene/ short trips to those countries. Candidates must Department of Biological Sciences, University of genome evolution, to characterize the mechanism have experience in plant molecular biology. Please Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N IN4, Canada; of MITE mobility, or to develop novel plant send cover letter describing research experience, telephone 403-220-7651, fax 403-289-9311, e­ genome mapping and gene isolation protocols curriculum vitae, and list of three' references with mail [email protected]. using MITEs. Candidates must be highly addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail to: Dr. motivated and have a strong background in Jimmy Botella, Plant Genetic Engineering Graduate Research Assistantship molecular biology/genetics. Expertise in genome Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of West Virginia University, Morgantown mapping or computational biology is desirable Queensland, Brisbane Qld-40n, Australia;. e-mail (Received 03/07) but not a prerequisite. Please send curriculum [email protected]. Graduate research assistantship available fall 1997 vitae and the names of three referees to: Dr. to work toward Ph.D. degree. Successful Thomas E. Bureau, McGill University, Department candidate is expected to conduct research on the of Biology, 1205 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montreal, Pos tdoctoral Position physiological/molecular mechanism(s) of cold Quebec H3A IBI Canada; e-mail University of Montreal, Quebec, Canada acclimation and/or freezing injury in plants. [email protected]. (Received 03/10) Students with degrees in plant-related disciplines A postdoctoral research position is available (horticulture, botany, biology) and interest! immediately to study gene regulation and signal experience in physiology, biochemistry, and Postdoctoral Position transduction during the defense response to molecular biology are encouraged to apply. Prior University of British Columbia pathogens. Current emphasis is on the character­ experience of work on plant stress (low tempera­ Vancouve~ Canada ization of a transcription factor (Plant Cell 7:589­ ture or water stress) is a plus. Tuition waived; (Received 03/05) 598) and a protein kinase (Plant Cell 9, No.4 stipend is $11,040. Submit letter of application, We are looking for highly motivated individual [19971 involved in the regulation of the potato resume, college transcripts, GRE scores, and interested in developing Arabidopsis as a system PRI0a gene, Applicants should have research letters of three references to: Dr. Rajeev Arora, for manipulating seed fatty acid metabolism by experience in molecular biology and/or biochem­ Division of Plant and Soil Sciences, P.O. Box 6108, genetic engineering to create industrially istry. Send cover letter outlining your research West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506­ interesting oil profiles. Expertise in gene interests and experience, curriculum vitae, 6108; telephone 304-293·6023, fax 304-293·2960, isolation, computer-aided databank handling, and reprints and the names, e-mail addresses, and e-mail [email protected] or contact the Division preparation of plasmid constructs are essential. telephone numbers of three references to: Dr. office at 304-293-4817. Experience in the area of plant lipid metabolism Normand Brisson, Department of Biochemistry, and production of transgenic plants is highly University of Montreal, PO Box 6128, Station A, Graduate Scholarship desirable. Salary will be commensurate with Montreal, Que. H3C 3J7, Canada; e-mail: University of Western Sydney experience (between $28,000 and $35,000).To [email protected]. Richmond, Australia apply, send a curriculum vitae, a statement (Repeat) outlining research interests, and the names three Contact: Associate Professor Jann Conroy, School referees to Ljerka Kunst, Department of Botany, of Horticulture, University of Western Sydney, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. Locked Bag 1, P. O. Richmond NSW 2753, V6T 124, Canada; fax 604-822-6089, e-mail Australia; fax 61 45 701314, e-mail [email protected]. [email protected]. (Details JanuarylFebruary 1997.)

30 _L.- ...:-.A.:.::..SP--:...P..::..:N=EW.:..::..=.S _ Graduate Assistantships Oregon State University, Corvallis NSF'S NEW HOME PAGE UP AND RUNNING (Repeat) For information or an application form, contact: On January 24, the National Science Foundation (NSF) introduced a newly Steve Strauss, Department of Forest Science, designed home page that provides easier access, better visuals, and more wide Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331­ 7501; phone 541-737-6578, fax 541 737 1393, e­ ranging options to reach NSF programs and information. mail [email protected]. (Details January/ February 1997.) The NSF web site provides a link to a new on-line document system, a "special notices" feature, and a "help" button which leads to an overview of the site. Undergraduate Research Internships in Plant Molecular & Cellular Biology University of Florida, Gainesville The home page has a new "gateway" or "front door" design more pleasing to the (Repeat) eye, and new organization and staff directories inside. For information, send your name and address to [email protected]; or to PMCB Program, P.O. Box 110690 University of Florida, Gainesville, FL A new facet of the home page is a section on cross-cutting (interdisciplinary) 32611. (Details January/February 1997.) programs.

NCSU·NSCORT Graduate Research Fellowships Also new is a site that improves access for the blind and visually impaired (which in Gravitational Biology North Carolina State University, Raleigh works well with Lynx, a text-only browser). (Repeat) For information contact: Dr. Christopher Brown, The site is now up and running, and will continue to change over time as com­ Associate Director NCSU-NSCORT, Department of ments and suggestions are received. Botany, Box 7612, North Carolina State Univer­ sity, Raleigh, NC 27695-7612; telephone 919-515­ 2727, fax 919-515-3436, internet What: The NSF home page [email protected]. Please access the NSCORT website at http://www2.ncsu.edu/ncsu/ Where: http://nsf.gov cals/nscort. NCSU is an equal opportunity employer. (Details JanuaryiFebruary 1997.) Why: To make NSF's information easier to locate and better serve the public on NSF organizations and programs

_....:.M=or:.:;.ch'-'.,/..:..;Ap<.:..:ri.:....;ll..;..99-'-J7,,-,-Vo.:....;I.:....;24.L..:.!N.:....;o.=2 _ 31 ASPP Headquarters Telephone Extensions and E-Mail Directory

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