Post-Doctoral Associate

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Postdoctoral Associate (9546)
Department of Entomology
College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS)
University of Minnesota St Paul, MN

Recruiting for a Postdoctoral Associate position (jobcode 9546) researching the Biocontrol of Japanese
beetles (JB) and jumping worms (JW) in the Department of Entomology under the supervision of Dr.
Vera Krischik.

The PostDoc research position is available starting July 2024 for performing research on managing
Japanese beetle (JB) and jumping worms (JW) through microbial biocontrol and biopesticides involving
1. The use and refinement of a qPCR assay; 2. Detection of pathogens in MN state surveys; 3. Use of
pheromone traps to disseminate the pathogen in lab studies; and 4. Comparison of current microbial
and conventional insecticides on survival in standard acute toxicity tests for JB and JW.

JB research on biocontrol involves a native, microsporidian pathogen Ovavesicula popilliae that lines the
malpighian tubules of adults and grubs and was discovered in Connecticut in 1985 by Andreadis.
Females produce half the number of eggs when infected and overwintering mortality is around 32%.
Research will involve surveying and collecting adult JB in vineyards and hop farms and identifying the
pathogen through qPCR. Also, the efficacy of microbial, conventional, and novel pesticides on JB and JW
will be tested by LC50 studies. A lab website is available to read more details
at https://ncipmhort.cfans.umn.edu. The research will be accomplished with the help of a UMN
arboretum researcher and a lab manager.

Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages):
40% Research using qPCR analysis to determine the presence of the pathogen
40% Research on comparing impact on Japanese beetles of available microbial and conventional
insecticides in standard toxicology tests.
20% Analyzing data, writing reports, giving talks, and preparing manuscripts for publication.

Anticipated Start Date: July 1 2024
Job posting: Review of applications will begin ASAP but will continue until filled.

Required Qualifications:
A PhD in entomology, horticulture, ecology, insect pathology, applied biology or related field is required.
Published research, previous lab research, and lab experience is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with LC50 toxicology studies, and molecular techniques.

About the Department of Entomology
The Department of Entomology conducts research and educates people about the science of
entomology, emphasizing the systematic, biodiversity, biology, ecology and importance of insects and
their relatives in relation to human welfare, and the maintenance of a healthy environment.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

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