Postdoctoral Fellow – Turf and Ornamental Entomology Lab
About The Position
The Postdoctoral Fellow will support the Turf and Ornamental Entomology Lab through greenhouse, field, laboratory, research, data management, and Extension activities. The role includes routine plant care, insect monitoring, sample collection, seasonal observations, sample processing and organization, basic molecular procedures, and colony maintenance. The Fellow will also assist with insecticide trials and host association experiments, organize data and sampling records, prepare photos and notes, and support workshops, demonstrations, and other Extension activities in collaboration with faculty, staff, and students. Work takes place outdoors in variable weather, in greenhouses, and in a laboratory. The position also involves travel within South Carolina for surveys and sample collection. Physical requirements include lifting up to 30 lbs, walking, standing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods, carrying field equipment, and safely operating a state vehicle.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in entomology, plant sciences, or a related field.
- Experience with insect sampling or laboratory procedures.
- Ability to work outdoors and in greenhouse environments.
- Basic molecular biology skills or willingness to learn.
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
- Ability to walk, stand, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
- Ability to carry field equipment.
- Ability to safely operate a state vehicle.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with invasive species research.
- Experience with insecticide trials or host association studies.
- Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, or diagnostics.
- Experience preparing Extension materials.
Responsibilities
- Conduct routine plant care, insect monitoring, sample collection, and seasonal observations in greenhouse and field settings.
- Handle, label, and organize samples; perform basic molecular procedures such as DNA extraction and PCR setup; and maintain colonies.
- Assist with setting up, maintaining, and observing insecticide trials and host association experiments.
- Enter and organize data, maintain sampling logs, prepare photos and notes, and assist with simple reporting.
- Prepare materials for workshops, demonstrations, and Extension activities.
- Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students.
- Travel within South Carolina for surveys and sample collection.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
