Department
College of Sciences/ Ctr VectrBrne Zoontc Emgng Dis
Scope of Job
Postdoctoral Fellow will work on a two-year research project funded through the USDA-APHIS New World Screwworm (NWS) Grand Challenge grant investigating the chemical ecology of NWS. The project focuses on the ecology of NWS. Its primary goal is to determine how plant- and animal-derived volatile compounds influence screwworm fly behavior, ecology, and reproduction. The project will also include development of integrated vegetation-based habitat suitability and dispersal models for screwworm in South Texas. This will be achieved by combining high-resolution remote sensing data with ecological and landscape variables to identify areas of potential establishment and inform management or sterile insect release strategies. Under minimal supervision, the Fellow will collaborate with the Principal Investigators (PIs) to design and implement laboratory and field-based research experiments. The Fellow is also expected to mentor graduate and undergraduate students; assist with data analysis; and contribute to the preparation of reports, manuscripts, and dissemination of research findings.
Description of Duties
The following is a listing of typical duties that may be applicable to the position:
Conducting NSW behavioral assays to characterize responses to ecologically relevant odor sources; Isolating, identifying, and analyzing chemical compounds from plants using GC-MS methods; Determining key VOCs that regulate screwworm fly behavior across different physiological conditions; Assist in developing ecological and habitat models to support surveillance and management strategies; Analyzing and interpreting the data and results; Assisting in preparing progress reports; Leading the preparation of manuscripts for publication; Drive university vehicles to field sites; Other job related duties as assigned.
Supervision Received
General supervision from grant PI and Co-PIs.
Required Education
Doctoral degree from an accredited University with a degree in biology, entomology, chemistry, or related field.
Preferred Education
None.
Licenses/Certifications
As condition of employment this position requires the applicant to be authorized to operate a University-Owned Vehicle for Official University Business. Per University of Texas System Policy 157, applicants will be subject to a motor vehicle record check for their most recent thirty-six (36) month history. Out of State Drivers are required to submit a 36-month history MVR from their prior State of residence(s).
Required Experience
None.
Preferred Experience
Experience/training in isolating and identifying behavior-modifying plant compounds; Experience with chemical ecology, plant-insect interactions approaches and techniques; Experience in insect behavioral research; Background in statistical modeling in ecology.
Equipment
Use of personal computer and proficiency in software and research statistical applications. Use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and related research equipment.
Working Conditions
Needs to be able to successfully perform all required duties. Office/research environment; some travel and weekend work is required. UTRGV is a distributed institution, which requires presence at multiple locations throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Other
This is a trainee position subject to a specific time as agreed to by stakeholders.
Physical Capabilities
N/A
Employment Category
Full-Time
Minimum Salary
Commensurate with Experience
Posted Salary
Commensurate with Experience
Position Available Date
09/15/2026
Grant Funded Position
Yes
If Yes, Provide Grant Expiration Date
07/19/2028
