Postdoctoral Research Associate – Biological Control of Pecan Pests

About the role

The Texas A&M AgriLife Research department seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead research on biological control agents for the pecan nut casebearer (Acrobasis nuxvorella), a major pest of Texas pecans. The position is a two‑year appointment with potential renewal based on funding and performance.

Key responsibilities

• Survey and catalog parasitoid wasps and flies of pecan nut casebearer (PNC) and assess their impact on pest populations.
• Apply DNA metabarcoding techniques to examine gut contents of predatory hemipterans for PNC feeding frequency.
• Develop and refine rearing protocols for promising beneficial insects for augmentative biological control.
• Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in laboratory and field work.
• Collect, organize, and analyze data for peer‑reviewed publications and present findings at stakeholder and scientific meetings.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research productivity through peer‑reviewed publications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.

Required skills

• DNA metabarcoding techniques.
• Microscopy for identifying and counting small organisms.
• Microsoft Excel for data management and analysis.

What we offer

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and long‑term disability insurance.
• Paid holidays, sick leave and vacation time.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee wellness initiatives.