Student Assistant 2 - Entomology
About The Position
The Agronomics Crop Entomology (PI Dr. Kelley Tilmon) and Forest Insect Ecology (PI Dr. Kayla Perry) labs are seeking a student research assistant for the 2026 summer to support ongoing research projects in the field and laboratory. The Agronomics Crop Lab focuses on 1) insect scouting and pest monitoring in corn and soybean fields; 2) mapping and GIS programing for insect monitoring networks in Ohio; 3) insecticide toxicology for agronomic pests. Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) collecting field data including insect scouting and population monitoring, crop stand counts, plant quality assessments and setting and maintaining traps. Laboratory work is also expected and includes maintenance of lab space, processing samples, data entry, and contributing to weekly newsletter articles. Forest ecology projects focus on 1) assessing the potential for natural enemies to control populations of the invasive elm zigzag sawfly; 2) evaluating spillover of insect predators from forest to agricultural habitat; and 3) characterizing phenology and life history of a newly described thrips species on spicebush. Responsibilities will include setting/collecting traps in the field, processing and sorting insect samples, identifying insect specimens, recording and archiving data, and general laboratory organization and cleaning. Additional tasks could be assigned based on interest.
Requirements
- Interest and willingness to learn about and work with insects
- Background in biological or agricultural sciences
- Must have driver’s license
- Ability to work independently once trained
- Ability to work outside in varying weather conditions
- Strong organizational skills
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in the field or laboratory is preferred, but not required.
- Experience with plant and/or insect identification is a major plus, but also not required.
Responsibilities
- Support field research projects – 75%
- Sample sorting and identification – 20%
- Laboratory cleaning & maintenance – 5%
Benefits
- Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
- Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
- State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
