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Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University - Kingsville

Department

Citrus Center

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Kingsville, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Perform cutting-edge research focused on developing and implementing sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for key arthropod pests in citrus production systems. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of fundamental and applied entomology, addressing critical challenges facing the citrus industry. The research will involve a combination of laboratory, greenhouse, and field-based studies aimed at improving our understanding of pest biology, behavior, and ecology to refine control tactics. The successful candidate will prepare manuscripts for publication, reports for funding agencies, operation of research equipment, supervision of graduate students and other lab/field personnel in research. The successful candidate will also work with other researchers, extension agents, growers, and the citrus industry stakeholders to facilitate the dissemination and adoption of research outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

+ Participation in field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments to evaluate IPM tactics.

+ Collection, processing, and analysis of experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.

+ Utilization of molecular techniques for species identification, population genetics, or as needed.

+ Preparation of research findings for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentation of results at professional conferences.

+ Mentoring and providing guidance to undergraduate and graduate students involved in the project.

+ Collaboration with other researchers, extension specialists, and citrus industry stakeholders to facilitate the dissemination and adoption of research outcomes.

+ Other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities Qualifications

+ Proven experience working with citrus pests or other agricultural systems.

+ Hands-on experience with IPM strategies and advanced molecular biology.

+ Experience in mentoring students or technicians.

+ Experience contributing to grant proposals or extension/outreach activities.

+ A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field sites.

Minimum Requirements

Education – Ph.D in relevant field

Experience – Two years or related professional experience

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Knowledge of – Knowledge of designing and conducting entomological research, including field and laboratory methodologies.

Knowledge of – Knowledge of statistical analysis techniques and data management practices used in scientific studies.

Knowledge of – Knowledge of scientific writing standards and effective presentation practices

Skills in –Skills in planning, executing, and evaluating entomological research projects.

Skills in –Skills in statistical software and tools used to analyze and interpret research data.

Skills in –Skills in strong scientific writing and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through publications or professional presentations.

Skills in –Skilled in organizing, interpreting, and reporting complex data.

Ability to–Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple research tasks.

Ability to–Ability to work collaboratively as part of a research or interdisciplinary team.

Ability to–Ability and willingness to travel to field sites as required, supported by possession of a valid Texas driver’s license.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.