Post-doctoral Scholar Veterinary Entomology

Position Specifics

The Machtinger Lab in the Department of Entomology in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to support an interdisciplinary research and Extension program focused on bed bug management and biosecurity in poultry production systems. This position will contribute to applied research, stakeholder education, and Extension programming aimed at reducing the movement and impact of bed bugs within commercial poultry facilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver educational programming and outreach materials related to bed bug management, integrated pest management (IPM), and poultry biosecurity.
• Translate applied research findings into practical recommendations, training modules, fact sheets, videos, and producer-focused educational resources.
• Coordinate and support field-based research activities conducted in commercial poultry facilities.
• Conduct workshops, trainings, and on-farm educational events for poultry producers, managers, and workers.
• Evaluate educational program effectiveness through surveys, participation metrics, and stakeholder feedback.
• Contribute to preparation of reports, presentations, manuscripts, and future grant proposals.
• Support bilingual and culturally responsive outreach efforts where appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in entomology, veterinary entomology, animal science, public health, Extension education, poultry science, or a related discipline.
• Experience conducting applied or field-based research.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to travel within Pennsylvania for fieldwork and Extension programming.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple project responsibilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with bugs and other pests of veterinary importance.
• Experience with Extension, outreach, or non-formal education programming.
• Experience working with agricultural producers, animal production systems, or pest management programs.
• Knowledge of integrated pest management, urban entomology, veterinary entomology, or poultry production systems.
• Experience developing educational materials or delivering trainings/workshops.
• Spanish language proficiency is desirable but not required.

Appointment Details

This is a limited-term, grant-funded postdoctoral appointment with excellent opportunities for professional development in applied research, Extension programming, stakeholder engagement, and science communication. The position will be based at Penn State University Park with travel to poultry facilities and stakeholder events as needed.

Environment

The successful candidate will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary team focused on addressing emerging challenges in veterinary and medical entomology through applied research and Extension. The program emphasizes practical problem-solving, stakeholder partnerships, and translation of science into actionable management strategies for the poultry industry.

Application Materials

• Cover letter describing qualifications and interest in the position
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information for three professional references
• Relevant publications or outreach examples (optional)

System Limitations

For external applicants, please click “Apply” and complete the application process. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.