Postdoctoral Research Associate – Pasture Mealybug Biological Control

About the role

The Texas A&M AgriLife Research team in Dallas seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead a project on pasture mealybug biological control and molecular ecology. The successful candidate will apply molecular gut‑content analysis across Texas to identify key natural enemies and develop integrated pest‑management strategies.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute statewide field surveys to collect mealybug and predator samples.
• Perform molecular gut‑content analyses, including DNA/RNA extraction, primer design, PCR and diagnostics, to pinpoint important predators.
• Conduct insecticide compatibility studies with identified natural enemies.
• Develop IPM recommendations for pasture mealybug management.
• Analyze data, prepare scientific manuscripts, reports and presentations.
• Participate in extension and outreach activities and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in entomology, molecular ecology, biological control or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in biological control and integrated pest management.
• Proven track record with molecular techniques and data analysis.
• Strong communication, teamwork and organizational abilities.

Required skills

• DNA/RNA extraction, primer design, PCR and molecular diagnostics.
• Molecular gut‑content analysis.
• Genomics, bioinformatics and next‑generation sequencing approaches.
• Knowledge of entomopathogenic fungi, microbial insecticides and delivery mechanisms.
• Grant writing and proposal development.
• Controlled‑environment agriculture systems.

What we offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and field facilities.
• Opportunities for publishing, conference presentations and professional development.
• Collaboration with leading researchers in agriculture and life sciences.