Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Scottsbluff (NE); On-site; USD 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Department of Entomology, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead multiple projects on entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) and fungi (EPF). The role will involve grant writing, reporting, and presenting results, with opportunities to mentor students and contribute to extension materials. Travel across western Nebraska may be required.

Location is Scottsbluff, NE, with formal supervision by Dr. Pin-Chu Lai in the Crops IPM Entomology Lab.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Microbiology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in IPM or applied ecology research.
• Demonstrated expertise or experience working with EPN and EPF.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driving criteria.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple research projects on EPN and/or EPF, including corn rootworm and head moth in relevant crops.
• Assist with grant proposal preparation and project reporting.
• Present research results at scientific conferences and publish manuscripts.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Support extension programming and material development as needed.

Skills

IPM/applied ecology

EPN/EPF experience

Communication skills

Driver’s license

Education

PhD in Entomology, Microbiology, Ecology or related

Job description

Position Information

Working Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department: Entomology-0834

Requisition Number: F_260080

Posting Open Date: 07/30/2026

Application Review Date: 09/01/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Description of Work

The Department of Entomology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln ( UNL ) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources ( IANR ) is seeking applications for a highly motivated and enthusiastic postdoctoral research associate. This 12-month (calendar year), special appointment will lead multiple research projects on EPN and/or EPF , including but not limited to projects targeting corn rootworm in corn and red sunflower seed weevil and head moth in sunflower. The successful candidate is expected to contribute to grant proposal preparation, project reporting, presenting research results at scientific conferences, manuscript drafting and publishing, as well as mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The postdoctoral research associate will have opportunities to assist with extension programing and material development if interested. The apportionment is 100% research. This position will be located in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Research may require frequent travel to research sites throughout western Nebraska. The initial appointment is for a one-year term with the possibility to extend depending on performance and funding availability.

The postdoctoral research associate will be working under the supervision of the principal investigator, Dr. Pin-Chu Lai in the Crops IPM Entomology Lab at Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center ( PREEC ). The program focuses on research in applied ecology, arthropod pest biology and management in major crops in the central high plains including sugar beets, dry beans, winter wheat, sunflower, corn, and alfalfa. Please visit the lab website for more information.

In addition to the above-described duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, and/or university level.

Recognizing that collaboration and participation in teams enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources ( IANR ) and the Department of Entomology are committed to creating learning, research, and Extension programming environments where the unique contributions of each individual are acknowledged and valued. At IANR we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective wellbeing and our ability to deliver on our mission.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/ .

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Microbiology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in IPM or applied ecology research.
• Demonstrated expertise or experience working with EPN and EPF .
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driving criteria.

Preferred Qualifications

• Scholarly experience and productivity (presentations, publications, grantsmanship).
• Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.
• Experience working in row crops.
• Extension and outreach experience.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required

Criminal History Background Check Required