Component of the PAF1 complex which is a multifunctional complex involved in transcription initiation via genetic interactions with TATA-binding proteins, elongation and transcription-coupled histone modification. Component of the PAF1 complex which consists of at least cdc-73, ctr-9, leo-1, pafo-1 and rtfo-1. Localization is independent of the other PAF1 complex components. Expressed in somatic cells, but not in germ cells, after the 30 cell stage. RNAi-mediated knock-down is mostly embryonic lethal. Embryogenesis proceeds more slowly, with embryos displaying defects in the positioning and shape of epidermal cells.