Postdoctoral Associate (L,P,S)

Mississippi State University; Mississippi; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University is seeking a postdoctoral fellow at the Delta Research and Extension Center to lead research on honey bee health impacts from intensive agriculture. This two-year position offers opportunities for independent research within the lab's theme.

The ideal candidate must have a PhD in Biology or Entomology, experience with molecular techniques, and be comfortable working with live bees in various environments.

Qualifications

• PhD required at the time of appointment.
• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing preferred.
• Ability to work with live bees in both settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on honey bee health.
• Conduct field and laboratory research.
• Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

Molecular laboratory skills

Statistical data analysis

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Attention to detail

Self-motivated

Beekeeping techniques

Education

PhD in Biology, Entomology or similar field

Tools

Next Generation Sequencing

Laboratory equipment for molecular biology

Job description

Job no: 510532
Position type: Full-Time 12-Month
Department: 013200 - Delta Research and Extension Center
Location: Washington County
Categories: Professional
Position Open Date: May 22 2026

Position Function

The Delta Research and Extension Center, Mississippi State University is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to lead research projects evaluating the impacts of intensive agriculture on honey bee health and to support currently funded projects. Position is for two years with the possibility of annual extension depending on performance and availability of funds.

Area of Specialization

Pollinator Health in Intensive Agricultural Landscape

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The responsibilities include but are not limited to leading the research projects and conducting field and laboratory research on honey bee health. The incumbent will also have the freedom to conduct his or her own research if it falls within the scope of the lab research theme. The ideal candidate needs to be self‑motivated, comfortable working with live honey bees in both field and laboratory settings, and demonstrate strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills along with a great work ethic. The ability to present research findings at scientific and extension meetings is essential. Candidate must possess molecular laboratory skills to analyze the collected samples including RNA/DNA extraction and virus detection and be proficient in applying statistical methods to analyze data. The selected candidate will be expected to prepare manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals and contribute to extension publications. The position requires a proactive and independent researcher conducting professional level research and contributing to the lab’s educational programs. The successful applicant should be able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively with team members, cross‑disciplinary researchers, and beekeepers.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Biology, Entomology or similar field is required at the time of appointment.
• A valid driver’s license, or the ability to obtain one by the start date of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• The candidate should have experience in Next Generation Sequencing, and toxicology.
• The candidate should be comfortable working with live bees (honey bees or wild bees) in both laboratory and field settings.
• Possess advanced beekeeping techniques, including queen rearing, and queen insemination is preferable but not necessary.
• Demonstrate previous research experience in pollinator health and specifically honey bees.
• Proficiency in molecular laboratory techniques and statistical data analysis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Attention to detail and excellent record keeping.
• Self‑motivated individual who can take direction but does not require direction.
• Able to work in a collaborative environment on team‑based research.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with attention to detail.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Good dexterity as well as hand and eye coordination. The selected individual needs to be comfortable working with live bees. Physical strength and endurance are needed to perform strenuous outdoor work under hot, sunny field conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325‑5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325‑3713 or [e-mail] . If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325‑3713 or [e-mail] . Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.

Contact for additional information

Dr. Esmaeil Amiri
Mississippi State University
Delta Research and Extension Center
PO Box 197
Stoneville, MS 38776
[e-mail]
Office: 662-686-3215

Screening Date

June 5, 2026, until filled.