Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the Role

The Department of Entomology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic postdoctoral research associate for a 12-month, calendar-year special appointment. This position will lead multiple research projects on entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) and/or entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), including projects targeting corn rootworm in corn and red sunflower seed weevil and head moth in sunflower.

The successful candidate will contribute to grant proposal preparation, project reporting, presenting research results at scientific conferences, manuscript drafting and publishing, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. There are opportunities to assist with extension programming and material development if interested. The apportionment is 100% research, and the position is located in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Research may require frequent travel to research sites throughout western Nebraska.

The initial appointment is for a one-year term with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability. The postdoctoral research associate will work under the supervision of Dr. Pin-Chu Lai in the Crops IPM Entomology Lab at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC). The program focuses on applied ecology, arthropod pest biology, and management in major crops of the central high plains, including sugar beets, dry beans, winter wheat, sunflower, corn, and alfalfa. Visit the lab website for more information.

In addition to research duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, and/or university level.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on EPN and/or EPF, including those targeting corn rootworm, red sunflower seed weevil, and head moth.
• Prepare and contribute to grant proposals and project reports.
• Present research results at scientific conferences.
• Draft and publish manuscripts.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Assist with extension programming and material development (optional).
• Participate in committee assignments and other administrative responsibilities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Microbiology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or applied ecology research.
• Demonstrated expertise or experience working with EPN and EPF.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driving criteria.

Preferred Qualifications

• Scholarly experience and productivity (presentations, publications, grantsmanship).
• Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.
• Experience working in row crops.
• Extension and outreach experience.

Location

Scottsbluff, Nebraska

Pre-placement driving record review and criminal history background check required.