Fellow (Post Doc)

The Department of Entomology seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow to support a USDA/NIFA-funded research project focused on developing RNA interference (RNAi)-based strategies for insect pest management. Needing someone for 9-months to help with the project until it is completed. This position is only funded for 9-months and is not expected to continue beyond that timeframe.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead independent research focused on developing RNA interference (RNAi)-based strategies for effective and sustainable insect pest management.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments.
• Collect research data.
• Analyze research data.
• Coordinate with laboratory staff on equipment needs.
• Coordinate with laboratory staff on material needs to support project completion.
• Prepare and maintain accurate research records, reports, and related documentation in standard scientific formats for data storage.
• Assist principal investigators in developing high-quality tables, graphs, and other visual outputs.
• Contribute to the preparation of materials for peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Oversee and ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols
• Manage ordering and inventory of research materials and reagents
• Maintain and monitor insect colonies used in research activities

Ranked #4 globally, our department drives impactful research, delivers comprehensive education, and provides essential extension services at local, national, and international scales. We tackle critical challenges in food security, plant protection, animal health, conservation, and ecosystem services through innovative basic and applied research on arthropods. Our faculty are leaders in the field-23% rank among the top 2% of scientists worldwide-and maintain strong external collaborations to advance discovery and learner success. With a 98% graduate placement rate, robust funding portfolio, and specialized training opportunities, we offer an exceptional environment for professional growth. The successful candidate will play a key role in our expanding undergraduate program, inspiring students and preparing them for impactful careers in entomology. For further information, visit https://entomology.k-state.edu/.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Entomology or a related discipline
  
  The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Entomology or a related discipline, earned within the past five years
• Demonstrated expertise in insect physiology, toxicology, and molecular biology, with preferred experience in insect RNAi, bioinformatics, and functional genomics.
• Excellent organizational, written, and interpersonal communication skills

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume/CV
2. Contact information for three professional references

Applications close on: May 8, 2026

$50,000 - $54,000