Postdoctoral Research Associate

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.

About the role

This 12-month (calendar year), special appointment will lead multiple research projects on EPN and/or EPF, including but not limited to 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, as well as mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The postdoctoral research associate may also assist with extension programming and material development if interested. The apportionment is 100% research.

This position is located in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and research may require frequent travel to research sites throughout western Nebraska. The initial appointment is for a one-year term with the possibility to extend 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 Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC). The program focuses on research in applied ecology, arthropod pest biology, and management in major crops in 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 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 multiple research projects on EPN and/or EPF, including projects targeting corn rootworm in corn and red sunflower seed weevil and head moth in sunflower.
• Contribute to grant proposal preparation and project reporting.
• Present research results at scientific conferences.
• Draft and publish manuscripts.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Assist with extension programming and material development (optional).

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Microbiology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in 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.

Pay

Commensurate with qualifications and experience.