Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi-Based Insect Pest Management

University of Florida • Gainesville, FL

60d • $58,656

About The Position

A postdoctoral associate position is available in the lab of Dr. Elizabeth Cash at the University of Florida for a researcher interested in insect molecular biology, genomics, chemical ecology, and applied pest management. The postdoctoral associate will contribute to a CAMTech-funded project focused on developing RNA interference (RNAi)-based control strategies for pest and invasive ants and cockroaches. The research will involve identifying and prioritizing RNAi target genes, designing and synthesizing dsRNA constructs, evaluating oral delivery formulations, measuring effects on survival and behavior, and validating gene knockdown using RT-qPCR. Based in the Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, this position also offers opportunities for collaboration across the University of Florida, including strong connections with Entomology and Nematology. The successful applicant will help investigate how RNAi can be developed as a more targeted and environmentally sustainable alternative to broad-spectrum insecticides for the management of invasive and pest insects. Current focal systems include Argentine ants, carpenter ants, leaf-cutter ants, and German cockroaches, with two focal species to be prioritized based on project needs and industry guidance. The postdoctoral associate will play a central role in shaping experiments, data analysis, and related reports and manuscripts, and the position is especially well suited for a candidate who enjoys integrating bioinformatic and laboratory approaches and is interested in building a research profile in insect genomics, functional genetics, or sustainable pest management. This is a full-time (FTE 1.0), time-limited postdoctoral appointment. Initial funding is currently available for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year based on satisfactory progress and funding availability. Longer continuation may be possible if additional funding becomes available. The successful candidate may begin as soon as feasible following completion of the hiring process. The latest possible start date is July 1, 2026.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date

Nice To Haves

• Highly motivated applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Candidates do not need to match every preferred qualification to be considered, and experience that complements the goals of the project will be valued.
• Evidence of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications or manuscripts in progress
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment
• Experience supporting or mentoring undergraduate student researchers
• Relevant experience in one or more of the following areas:
• Molecular biology and functional genetics, including RNA work, RT-qPCR, primer design, dsRNA synthesis, RNA interference (RNAi), gene expression analysis, or related molecular workflows
• Genomics, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics, including comparative genomics, sequence-based analyses, or related computational approaches
• Insect biology and experimental assays, including insect husbandry, behavioral assays, pest insect biology, or other laboratory-based insect research
• Quantitative data analysis, including experimental design, statistics, and use of R, Python, or similar tools for biological data analysis

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments related to RNAi target identification, dsRNA construct design, and delivery optimization
• Carry out molecular and genomic work, including sequence analysis, primer design, PCR, dsRNA synthesis, RNA extraction, cDNA preparation, and RT-qPCR
• Help establish and refine oral delivery assays in ants and other pest insects
• Conduct mortality, behavior, and other phenotype-based assays in laboratory colonies or group-based bioassays
• Analyze genomic, transcriptomic, and experimental datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools
• Prepare manuscripts, project reports, figures, and presentations
• Contribute to collaborative discussions with team members and industry advisors
• Mentor undergraduate researchers or other junior lab members working on the project
• Participate in a collegial, supportive, and inclusive research environment

Benefits

• The anticipated starting salary is $58,656 annually, consistent with the current University of Florida minimum for postdoctoral associates.
• A higher starting salary may be considered in limited cases based on qualifications and available funding.
• The position includes eligibility for University of Florida employee benefits in accordance with university policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree