Job Summary:
The Bee Research Lab at Central State University (1890 Land Grant Institution and HBCU) is seeking a postdoctoral scientist to fulfill obligations for new USDA CBG research on the stress of transportation to honeybees. The position is a 15-month appointment. The research scope is on the effects of transportation on the behavior and physiology including immune response, pathogen prevalence, and pesticide resistance of honeybees. The research focuses on how transportation affects honeybee health by investigating the biotic stresses in the bee colonies before, during, and after transportation. The candidate must have a legal right to live and work in the United States.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Perform laboratory experiments for CRISPR, molecular biology, genetics, and related experiments, • Prepare samples for DNA/RNA extractions, PCRs, qPCRs, library prep for Illumina and long read sequencing, and other molecular processes,
- Direct preparation of equipment, samples, reagents, media, and solutions for use in the laboratory,
- Perform bioinformatic analysis using programming skills, data entry, management, and summarization, statistically valid data analysis and interpretation,
- Preparing research findings and reports for grant agencies, preparing research presentations and writing publications, preparing related research manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications,
- Keep a detailed record of lab notebook, meet with CSU PI/Co-PI weekly, to discuss work projects and outputs and assign priorities,
- Mentor and work with undergraduate students for research, facilitate the operation of the lab and assist the faculty/students, and
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.
Required Skills and Abilities:
- The candidate should have experience with bee viruses, CRISPR technology, cloning, PCRs, and molecular biology.
- The postdoctoral scientist is expected to design and perform procedures/techniques using standard molecular methods for gene expression analysis, genetic assay, behavioral experiments, and advanced knowledge of honeybee pathogens and viruses.
- The incumbent is willing to learn new technologies and is expected to supervise and mentor student researchers (under-represented minority).
Minimum Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Entomology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or related sciences.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Knowledgeable of data entry management and presentation skills.
- Science-driven and highly motivated for research and publications
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge and skills in insect or general molecular biology, pathogenic research, cellular biology, or developmental biology for at least 2 years,
- Evidence of peer-reviewed publications in pathogens, molecular biology, or genetics
- Experience and interest in mentoring/teaching students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds,
- Be organized and detail-oriented with the ability to work under limited supervision,
- Ability to produce outcomes under strict deadlines,
- Experience using Illumina sequencing, and,
- Knowledge and skills in Python/MatLab for image processing, programming, and bioinformatics for at least 2 years.
Posting Date 05/19/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications should be uploaded to the Central State Job Board Posting with a cover letter, a current CV, a research statement including research experience and future goals, and contact information of three professional references. The review of applications will start on May 2026, or until the position is filled. The expected start date is around Jun of 2026 or a consensus with the hiring candidate.
All offer of employment at Central State University are contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check. This may include, but is not limited to, verification of education and employment history, criminal history check, driving record (if applicable), drug screening, and tax compliance review.
Certain positions may require additional screenings based on job responsibilities, regulatory requirements, or funding sources.
Failure to successfully complete the required background check or provide accurate and complete information may result in withdrawal of an offer or termination of employment.
Position Category Staff - Monthly (Exempt) Budgeted Annual Salary $50,000- $53,500
