Postdoctoral Research Associate

Texas A&M • College Station, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Texas A&M AgriLife Research is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Entomology to coordinate with researchers on a project evaluating alternative radiation sources for implementing the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) to control screwworm flies. The role coordinates with research colleagues in the department, the National Center for Electron Beam Research at Texas A&M University, other Texas A&M University colleagues, and the USDA.

The position is grant- or contract-funded, and continued employment depends on ongoing funding and satisfactory job performance. The role requires a Ph.D. in Entomology, Zoology, Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field. Preferred qualifications include two years of insect-rearing experience in a laboratory setting, particularly blow fly rearing, and two years of research experience, background, or training in molecular biology techniques.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Zoology, Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Ability to design, implement, and analyze experiments and experimental data relating to the SIT project and other possible related projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to use a personal computer to communicate, prepare proposals including cost information on spreadsheets as applicable, and report activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, students, and staff.
• Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and/or technical equipment.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to organize tasks and prioritize work with minimal supervision.
• Presentation and analytical skills.

Nice To Haves

• Two years of experience rearing insects in a laboratory setting, particularly blow flies.
• Two years of research experience, background, or training in molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate experiments supporting screwworm SIT projects.
• Rear and maintain blow fly colonies.
• Evaluate, select, and apply standard routine research techniques and keep detailed data records.
• Use computers and laboratory or technical equipment for data and statistical analysis and technical evaluation of experiments and results.
• Summarize results for scientific and clientele-oriented publications.
• Prepare and write proposals to funding agencies and maintain financial accounts related to research projects.
• Supervise undergraduate and/or graduate students and other laboratory, technical, or field staff involved in research.
• Assist with basic laboratory management and insect care as needed.
• Conduct biological assays associated with eBeam-, X-ray-, and gamma-radiation-treated blow flies.
• Install, operate, and/or repair research equipment.
• Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

• Health insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• Dental insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• Vision insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• Life insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• Long-term disability insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• 12–15 annual paid holidays.
• Up to 8 hours per month of sick leave.
• At least 8 hours per month of vacation.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee Wellness Initiative.
• Ongoing professional development and training through Aspire, LinkedIn Learning, and internally developed programs.

What This Job Offers

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