Postdoctoral Research Associate

Texas A&M University System • College Station, TX

6d

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will coordinate with research colleagues in the Department of Entomology on a project evaluating alternative radiation sources for implementing the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) to control screwworm flies. The role also coordinates activities with Dr. Suresh Pillai and his team at the National Center for Electron Beam Research at Texas A&M University, as well as other Texas A&M University and USDA colleagues.

The position is funded through grants or contracts. Continued employment depends on ongoing funding and satisfactory job performance.

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 potentially related projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to use a personal computer to communicate, prepare proposals that include cost information on spreadsheets as applicable, and report on 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, organized, and able to 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 in support of screwworm SIT projects.
• Rear and maintain blow fly colonies.
• Evaluate, select, and apply standard techniques for routine research, keeping detailed data records.
• Use computers and laboratory or technical equipment to conduct data and statistical analyses and evaluate research 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 necessary.
• Conduct biological assays involving blow flies treated with eBeam, X-ray, and gamma radiation.
• Install, operate, and/or repair research equipment.
• Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance, with AgriLife contributing to premiums.
• 12–15 annual paid holidays.
• Up to 8 hours per month of sick leave and 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: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree