NEWSLETTER
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF CHEMICAL ECOLOGY
- From the Editor
- 2001 Annual Meeting Update
- Future Meeting Sites
- Donations to ISCE
- Results of ISCE 2001 Elections
- Member News
- Positions Available
- Reduced rates for Chemoecology
- Upcoming Meetings of Interest
The ISCE Newsletter is published triannually, in October, February, and
June. It is financed through member contributions. None of the material
contained herein may be reprinted without the proper written acknowledgment
of the editor. Address all correspondence and newsletter submissions
to the editor. Deadline for the next issue is September 15, 2001.
Editor: Jocelyn G. Millar
Department of Entomology
University of California
Riverside CA 92521 USA
Email: jocelyn.millar@ucr.edu
- The switch to an all-electronic format for the Newsletter seems to have gone remarkably well. The first electronic Newsletter was sent out in February, and reached most of our members with no problem. However, a significant percentage of members had not kept their email addresses up to date in the membership database. All of those members were contacted by regular mail, with instructions on how to update their addresses, so almost all members can now be reached electronically. Because the Newsletters and most other Society mailings will be conducted entirely by electronic mail, it is essential that you keep us informed of any change in your email address. Please note that it is ISCE policy to maintain strict control over the email and regular mail mailing lists, and the mailing lists will NOT be given, leased, or sold to any individual, organization, or company. There is a Membership Information Update form on the ISCE website (http://www.chemecol.org/) that can be submitted electronically. Also, if you have forgotten to renew your membership, or if you know colleagues who would like to join (or rejoin) the Society, please access the membership form on the webpage. Please address all correspondence regarding membership issues or journal subscriptions paid through the Society to the Treasurer, Dr. Steve Teale, at sateale@mailbox.syr.edu.
- A wealth of other information about the Society and its activities is available on the website, including all the forms and information required to renew memberships, register for the annual meetings, student travel award applications, and abstracts of the meetings for the past several years. The webpage is updated frequently, and it should serve as an up-to-date source of information on Society affairs for you. Please make use of it, and the membership list which is linked to it. I am very grateful to Allard Cossé, the Society's new webmaster, for building and maintaining the excellent new ISCE webpage. I would also like to thank Adam Trickett, who started and ran the ISCE's first webpage for several years.
- Please send any news items, such as awards won by Society members,
announcements of conferences and symposia, listings of positions available,
and other items of general interest to the editor by Email or by regular
mail at the address above.
If you have not already done so, please pay your 2001 dues. Annual meeting participants who are not paid-up members will be charged membership dues at the time of registration for the meeting.
REMINDER
For those people flying to Reno to attend the ISCE Annual meeting in Lake
Tahoe, in order to have transportation from the Reno airport to the conference
site, Please send an email with your name(s), arrival date and time,
and airline and flight number to Gary Blomquist, blomquis@unr.edu,
by June 23.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada, USA, July 7-12, 2001.
Meeting Website: http://www.ag.unr.edu/ISCE2001/
The
preparations for the 2001 meeting, organized by Prof. Gary Blomquist,
are almost complete. The meeting will be held at Granlibakken Conference
Center in Lake Tahoe, on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
General information about the conference center and its facilities can
be found on the Granlibakken website at http://www.granlibakken.com/index.asp.
Prof. Blomquist has arranged a full program, with a number of diverse
symposium topics. The meeting will begin with registration on the afternoon
of Saturday July 7, with the opening ceremonies at 6:00 P.M., followed
immediately by the ISCE Silver Medal Award Lecture by Professor David
Wood of University of California, Berkeley. The lecture will be followed
by the opening reception and dinner. The symposium and submitted papers
sessions will begin on Sunday morning, with the Silverstein-Simeone Award
Lecture by Professor Glenn Prestwich and the Student Travel Award oral
presentations on Sunday evening. Symposium and oral paper presentations
will continue on Monday, with the Social Lecture presented by Professor
Wendell Roelofs on Monday evening, followed by the poster session, with
refreshments. Participants will get a break on Tuesday, which will be
a half-day, with presentations in the morning, a special lecture on the
ecology of Lake Tahoe by Professor Charles Goldman, and then a boat cruise
on Lake Tahoe in the afternoon. There will be an informal workshop on
practical applications of pheromones on Tuesday evening. Sessions will
continue through Wednesday, finishing at 5:15, followed immediately by
the ISCE business meeting and the final banquet. Participants will begin
departing the next morning, July 12. Prof. Blomquist and his staff are
working on arrangements for tours for accompanying people, and in addition,
the Conference Center has numerous activities available, including tennis,
swimming, and hiking. Full information about the meeting can be found
on the meeting website at http://www.ag.unr.edu/ISCE2001/,
including the full program.
Symposium presentations will be approximately 30 minutes, with some variation.
Oral presentations will be 15 minutes each (~12 minutes, plus 3 minutes
for questions). For those making oral presentations, an overhead projector,
a 35mm slide projector, and a Microsoft Powerpoint projector will be available.
Poster boards will be 4 ft x 4 ft (1.2 m x 1.2 m).
For those participants flying into Reno airport, transportation to the
conference site at Granlibakken will be provided on Friday and Saturday,
July 6th and 7th. To facilitate planning for transportation, for those
of you who are arriving by airplane, please email Gary Blomquist at blomquis@unr.edu:
- your name and the number of people in your party,
- your arrival and departure dates and times,
- the name of the airline, and your flight numbers.
When you arrive, there will be a representative of the ISCE conference
with a sign (ISCE) at the Reno airport in the baggage claim area to help
you find the conference shuttle buses for transportation to the Granlibakken
conference center, which is about an hour from the airport by bus.
For those people arriving at other times, rental cars and taxi service
are available.
To return to Reno airport on the morning of Thursday, July 12, a sign-up
sheet will be available at the registration desk. If you require transportation
back to Reno airport on Thursday morning, please make sure that you sign
up.
We are looking forward to a very interesting and successful meeting in
a wonderful setting. See you there!
Gary Blomquist, 2001 Meeting Host
Other scheduled meetings will be: August 2002, Hamburg (Organizer Wittko
Francke); 2003, South Korea (Organizer, Kyung-Saeng Boo); 2004, Ottawa,
Canada (organizers Thor Arnason and Bernard Philogene); 2005, Maryland,
USA (Organizer Jeff Aldrich); 2006, Barcelona (Organizers, Angel Guerrero
and Francisco Camps).
Donations from Fuji Flavors, Kluwer, Trécé Inc., and
the USDA Grants Program Support ISCE Awards and Student Travel.
We are grateful for continuing support from Fuji Flavors for the ISCE
Silver Medal Award, and from Kluwer Academic Publishers for the Silverstein-Simeone
Lecture. We are also grateful to Trécé, Inc. and the USDA-NRI
grants program for their generous support for the Student Travel Fund,
which sponsors student travel to the annual meeting to make presentations.
Student travel awards are made on an annual basis, with approximately
10 students and postdoctoral scholars normally receiving awards.
Jean-Luc
Clément (University of Marseille, and head of the CNRS Laboratory
in Neurobiology) has been elected as the new ISCE Vice-President and President-elect.
Professor Clément has a long history of service to the Society,
including being one of the founding members of the Society in 1984, and
hosting the excellent meeting in Marseille in 1999.
Jocelyn Millar was re-elected to a second term as the Secretary of the
Society.
Four new councilors were also elected:
Jeffrey Aldrich, Research Leader of the Insect Chemical Ecology Laboratory at the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland
Ben Burger, Head of Organic Chemistry at the University of Stellenbosch,
South Africa
Jenny Mordue (Luntz), Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Scotland
Irena Valterova, Senior Scientist, Institute of Organic Chemistry and
Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic
Councilors serve 3 year terms and are appointed from various geographical and subject areas, and advise the ISCE Executive Committee. Further details can be found in the Society's bylaws on the Society webpage.
Professor Kenji Mori appointed President of the Japan Society for Bioscience,
Biotechnology, and Agrochemistry
Prof. K. Mori delivers an inaugural address at the conference of the
Annual Meeting of JSBBA on March 24-27, 2001, Kyoto, Japan.
Professor Kenji Mori, Department of Chemistry, Science University of Tokyo,
the former president of the ISCE in 1992, has been honored by being appointed
as the president of the Japan Society for Bioscience, Biotechnology, and
Agrochemistry (JSBBA), effective April 2001. He will serve as President
for two years, and manage the activities of the JSBBA until 2003. The
JSBBA, formerly named the Agricultural Chemical Society of Japan, is now
one of three major scientific societies in Japan along with the Chemical
Society of Japan and the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan, and consists
of about 14,000 active members. It was founded in 1924, mainly by members
of Departments of Agricultural Chemistry in Universities and National
Institutes. It was recognized officially by the Ministry of Education,
Science, Sports, and Culture of Japan in 1957 through steady development
of the organization and activities, and tremendous contributions to scientific
and indusrtrial developments.
Currently, research by active members of JSBBA includes bioscience/biotechnology
research in life, food and environmental sciences, including the study
of biological phenomena in plants, animals and microorganisms, identification
and synthesis of chemical structures from natural sources and their functions.
Members' research covers a tremendously broad field, from the basic science
of life processes through to the development of practical applications
for novel organic chemicals and biochemicals.
Professor William F. Wood honored as "Scholar of the Year," at Humboldt State University
Professor William Wood has been selected as the "Scholar of the
Year," at Humboldt State University, the northernmost campus of the
California State University system, in recognition of his research in
chemical ecology. His research in chemical ecology started with a postdoctoral
position with Jerrold Meinwald and Thomas Eisner at Cornell 
University
in 1971, followed by further postdoctoral studies, directed by Professor
Meinwald, on termite defensive secretions, millipede defensive secretions,
ant alarm pheromones and tick sex pheromones at the International Centre
for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Nairobi, Kenya from 1972-1975.
After returning from Africa, Dr. Wood took a teaching position at Humboldt
State University. Even though teaching is his main responsibility, he
has broadened his research in chemical ecology into the study of semiochemicals
of vertebrates, including the defensive spray of three species of skunks,
the volatile constituents of snake cloacal secretion, interdigital gland
secretions from black-tailed deer, whitetail deer, sable antelope, wildebeest,
gemsbok and the American pronghorn antelope, metatarsal gland secretions
from impala, anal gland secretions from the binturong, and the defensive
secretion of a rare millipede, Buzonium crassipes.
His more recent work has focused on the identification and function of
volatile compounds from mushrooms. His group has recently found that the
compound responsible for mushroom odor, 1-octen-3-ol, is produced by tissue
disruption in many mushroom species. At the same concentration as is found
in mushrooms, this compound keeps banana slugs from eating treated lettuce.
Thus, it is likely that this compound is an antifeedant produced in response
to slug feeding by many wild mushroom species. His group was also the
first to report that the volatile chemicals in mushrooms are different
from those produced by the mycelium.
- Faculty Positions: Plant Molecular Ecology
The Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research at Cornell University invites applications from scientists who will use molecular and/or genomic approaches to study mechanisms underlying ecological interactions or evolutionary diversification. Up to six new faculty will be recruited over the next five years to build and/or strengthen programs in plant molecular ecology, plant pathology and plant development. Research areas of interest include, but are not limited to, microbial communities that affect plant growth and development; the mechanistic basis of adaptive phenotypic variation; and natural genetic variation of defined signal transduction pathways.
The successful candidate will establish a vigorous, extramurally funded research program and have the opportunity to integrate ecological studies with existing research thrusts in plant pathology and plant development at the Boyce Thompson Institute. The successful candidate will also have an opportunity to develop close ties with one or more departments or programs at Cornell University. Junior level scientists are encouraged to apply but the position is also open at a more senior level. Excellent start-up funds and benefits are available. Review of applications will begin April 2 and continue until the position is filled.
Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a three to five page statement of research interests, and the names of at least four references to: Dr. Robert R. Granados, Chair, Plant Molecular Ecology Search Committee, Boyce Thompson Institute, Ithaca, New York 14853; 607-254-1265; fax 607-255-6695; e-mail rg28@cornell.edu.
The Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research is an independent, not-for-profit plant research center founded in 1924 and affiliated with Cornell University since 1974. The Institute is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty and staff. Applications from women and minorities are encouraged.
- PhD. Student and Postdoctoral Positions
The Swiss National Science Foundation has awarded a substantial grant for the creation of a National Center of Competence in Research entitled "Plant survival in natural and agricultural ecosystems". The center will be directed by former ISCE president Martine Rahier and includes two chemical ecology sub-projects headed by Ted Turlings and Patrick Guerin. The center consists of an interdisciplinary research network involving 34 Swiss scientists and numerous international partners. Its research efforts are grouped into three parts: plant physiology, ecosystems, and applications. Research is devoted to the understanding of mechanisms that plants employ to adapt to their biotic and abiotic environment and to cope with important stress factors. Special emphasis is placed on the application of this knowledge to the protection of plants in natural and agricultural ecosystems. Various positions for Ph.D. students, post-docs, and technicians are offered. Further information: http://www.unine.ch/nccr/welcome.html
- Postdoctoral Position - Identification and Synthesis of Mealybug
Pheromones
Postdoctoral position available immediately for a two year project to identify, synthesize, and develop applications for three mealybug species attacking vineyards in the western US. Position will have technical support available to assist with insect rearing, bioassays, field tests, etc. Applicant should have a PhD in organic chemistry, chemical ecology, or related fields, and a sound working knowledge and hands-on experience with the identification and synthesis of semiochemicals. Bioassay experience desirable but not required. Competitive salary and benefit package, as per standard Univ. of California rates. Applicants should send curriculum vitae, a cover letter describing experience and interests, and the names, addresses, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers of three references to Jocelyn Millar, Dept. of Entomology, Univ. of California, Riverside CA 92521, USA, email jocelyn.millar@ucr.edu
- Postdoctoral position: Evolutionary change in insect sexual communication
systems
Postdoctoral position available at the W.M. Keck Behavioral Biology Center, North Carolina State University. Candidate should be trained in Evolution, Genetics, or Ecology, with interests in evolution of complex behavioral traits. Project goal is to improve our understanding of evolutionary change in sexual communication systems in insects, using a model system consisting of two moth species (Heliothis) that differ dramatically in pheromone blends and in close range mating behaviors. The two species can be hybridized and their backcross offspring can be analyzed both phenotypically and genetically. Specific knowledge of Quantitative Trait Locus analysis, molecular marker techniques (e.g. AFLP), and quantitative analysis of behavior is desirable. Evidence of research productivity is essential. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications. NCSU is an affirmative action employer. Contacts: Fred_Gould@NCSU.edu or Coby_Schal@NCSU.edu
- Postdoctoral Position in Host-Parasite Chemical Ecology
Two-year position available June 1, 2001, for a highly motivated individual to explore the chemical ecology of the parasitic honey bee mite, Varroa jacobsoni. Requires Ph.D. in entomology, chemistry, chemical ecology or related discipline. Must be highly skilled with methods for chemical extraction, fractionation and characterization of biological compounds, especially those in insect cuticles. Course work in organic chemistry and demonstrated experience with HPLC, GC and GC-MS essential. Involves some work with bees. Salary $28K US + full benefits. To apply, please submit a curriculum vitae, a short description of research interests and experience, relevant publications, and names/addresses of 3 references to: Dr. N. W. Calderone, Department of Entomology, Comstock Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
The journal Chemoecology, edited by ISCE members Désiré
Daloze and Jacques M. Pasteels of the Laboratory of Bio-Organic Chemistry,
University of Brussels, wishes to announce special reduced subscription
rates of 126 Swiss Francs, including postage. The normal rate for individual
subscriptions is 198 Swiss Francs. Chemoecology currently publishes 4
issues a year, in both paper and electronic formats, focusing on research
papers that integrate ecology and chemistry in an attempt to increase
our understanding of the biological significance of natural products.
Chemoecology also is now abstracted in Current Contents. Electronic sample
copies can be downloaded from http://www.birkhauser.ch/journals/4900/tocs/cont9009002.htm.
Information on publishing in the journal can be obtained from the Editors,
who would be happy to advise regarding the appropriateness of particular
works for Chemoecology.
- 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Chemical Ecology, Penang, Malaysia, August 7-11, 2001. Contact and registration information: apcce@maxis.net.my, http://apaces.bizland.com/5.chtml; The Secretariat, APCCE, School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia. FAX: 1-604-656-5125.
- 4th Asia-Pacific Conference on Entomology, August 14-17, 2001, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Website: http://www.mapps.org.my/mapps/APCE.html
- 3rd IUPAC International Conference on Biodiversity, Nov. 3-8, Antalya, Turkey. Main topics: Chemical basis of diversity; Biomolecular aspects of biodiversity; Innovative utilization. Further information and contact: Prof. Dr. Bilge SENER, P.O. Box 143 06572 Maltepe-Ankara, Turkey. Fax +90-312-213 39 21. Email blgsener@tr-net.net.tr. Web http://www.agne.com.tr
- Annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America, San Diego,
California, December 9-12, 2001. Information: http://www.entsoc.org/annual_meeting/2001/index.html