Postdoctoral Research Associate

Texas A&M University System • Dallas, TX

22d • Onsite

About The Position

This Postdoctoral Research Associate, Pasture Mealybug Biological Control and Molecular Ecology, will focus on identifying key natural enemies of pasture mealybug through a statewide molecular gut-content analysis survey; conduct field sampling across Texas and perform molecular analyses.

Requirements

• Appropriate doctoral degree.
• Demonstrated experience in biological control and integrated pest management.
• Experience with molecular techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, primer design, PCR, and molecular diagnostics.
• Knowledge of entomopathogenic fungi and microbial insecticides and different delivery mechanisms.
• Knowledge of molecular trophic interaction analysis.
• Knowledge of genomics, bioinformatics, or next-generation sequencing approaches.
• Knowledge of grant writing and proposal development.
• Knowledge of controlled-environment agriculture systems.
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Conducting molecular gut-content analyses to identify important mealybug predators
• Designing and implementing statewide field surveys
• Conducting insecticide compatibility studies with major mealybug natural enemies
• Developing IPM recommendations for pasture mealybug management.
• Analyzing data and preparing manuscripts, reports, and presentations.
• Participating in extension and outreach activities and collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams.
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students,
• Performs other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

What This Job Offers

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