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Job ID360456 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyAcademic Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9546 Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin About the Job 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. Qualifications 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 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. Benefits 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. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be con idered 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. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022). The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.