Assistant Research Scientist - Trible

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is hiring an Assistant Research Scientist in Athens. This full-time role focuses on ecological and evolutionary research concerning globally invasive ant species. The candidate must hold a doctoral degree in entomology or a related field and should have 3-5 years of postdoctoral research experience. Duties include designing advanced experiments, publishing findings, and mentoring students. This position offers the opportunity for exciting research and a collaborative academic environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years postdoctoral research experience preferred.
• Experience with macroecology and invasive species biology is an advantage.
• Strong academic record in research and teaching is required.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct specialized experiments using scientific protocols.
• Publish research findings in journals and apply for funding.
• Mentor students in research and engage in instruction.

Skills

Quantitative skills for biological research

Molecular genetic analysis

Project design and publishing

Field population surveillance

Phylogeographic analysis

Education

Doctoral degree in entomology, ecology, or related areas

Job description

Overview

Posting Number: F2691P

Working Title: Assistant Research Scientist - Trible

Department: CAES-Entomology

About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department: College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences

College/Unit/Department website: www.ent.uga.edu

Posting Type: External

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Anticipated Start Date: 06/01/2026

Job Posting Date: 04/22/2026

Open until filled: Yes

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

EEO Statement: The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title: Researcher AC

Faculty Rank: Assistant Research Scientist

Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.)

Tenure Status: Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications: A doctoral degree in entomology, ecology, or related areas.

Position Summary

The Department of Entomology in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences seeks a full-time research-track faculty position (12-month appointment) at the assistant research scientist level. This twelve-month, non-tenure-track position will have research responsibilities focused on the ecology and evolution of globally invasive ant species. The position is budgeted at 95% research and 5% service. The position is renewable assuming satisfactory performance and funding. The successful candidate will use a wide range of techniques to better characterize the population biology of globally invasive ants. A particular focus will be on the genetic and ecological changes that distinguish native from invasive populations of these organisms, including establishing field populations within their source region and conducting baseline comparisons between invaded and intact populations within their invasive range (ie, in GA or the SE). While the research will be heavily aligned with existing research groups in the Department, the scope of this project requires an experienced researcher.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification

3-5 years postdoctoral research experience is preferred.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Demonstrable capability in quantitative skills for biological research including molecular genetic analysis, organizing and executing sample collection trips, macroevolutionary data compilation and analysis, and phylogeographic analysis are required.

A demonstrated track record in project design, publishing, and obtaining extramural funding, so it cannot be achieved by a research associate or other junior-level researcher. The department seeks applicants with a strong academic record in research and teaching, particularly in the areas of invasive species biology, macroecology, phylogenetics, functional trait evolution, and ant biology.

Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

No

Does this position require a P-Card?

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?

No

Is driving a responsibility of this position?

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy: Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Design, organize and conduct highly specialized and advanced experiments using established scientific protocols and procedures and in some cases designing new protocols. Summarize findings, publish results in research journals. Apply for extramural funding to support research activities.
• Mentor students in research, engage in resident instruction

Percentage Of Time: 95

Percentage Of Time: 5