Postdoctoral Research Associate – Gene Drive & Insect Genetics

About the role

This full‑time postdoctoral position supports cutting‑edge research on gene‑drive technologies and transgene removal in insect models. The role is based in the Entomology Department of Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, and involves both laboratory and data‑analysis work.

Key responsibilities

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments evaluating gene‑drive efficiency and DNA‑repair pathways in Drosophila melanogaster and Aedes aegypti.
• Generate CRISPR/Cas9 constructs, guide RNAs, donor plasmids, and gene‑drive braking strategies.
• Perform genetic crosses, embryo injections, transgenic line screening, fluorescence phenotyping, and molecular validation of repair outcomes.
• Analyze DNA‑repair outcomes using PCR, sequencing (Sanger and nanopore), genotyping, HRMA, and related molecular techniques.
• Develop and maintain transgenic insect lines, conduct inheritance assays, and ensure compliance with biosafety protocols.
• Maintain detailed experimental records, analyze quantitative data, prepare figures, and present findings to the research team.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, progress reports, and grant proposals.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genetics, entomology, or a related field.
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9‑based genome editing in insects.
• Proven ability to conduct complex molecular and genetic experiments independently.
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with data‑visualization tools.

Required skills

• CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
• Gene‑drive design and implementation
• Drosophila melanogaster and Aedes aegypti handling
• PCR, DNA sequencing (Sanger and nanopore), HRMA, genotyping
• Embryo injection and transgenic line development
• Fluorescence‑based phenotyping
• Quantitative data analysis and scientific reporting