What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi-Based Insect Pest Management position at Inside Higher Ed?
Job No: 539093
Work Type: Full Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)
Categories: Grant or Research Administration, Agricultural Sciences
Department: 19070000 - EG-ENG SCH SUSTAIN INFRST ENV
Job Description
Classification Title:
Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi-Based Insect Pest Management
Classification Minimum Requirements:
Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date
Job Description:
A postdoctoral associate position is available in the lab of Dr. Elizabeth Cash at the University of Florida for a researcher interested in insect molecular biology, genomics, chemical ecology, and applied pest management. The postdoctoral associate will contribute to a CAMTech-funded project focused on developing RNA interference (RNAi)-based control strategies for pest and invasive ants and cockroaches. The research will involve identifying and prioritizing RNAi target genes, designing and synthesizing dsRNA constructs, evaluating oral delivery formulations, measuring effects on survival and behavior, and validating gene knockdown using RT-qPCR. Based in the Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, this position also offers opportunities for collaboration across the University of Florida, including strong connections with Entomology and Nematology.
The successful applicant will help investigate how RNAi can be developed as a more targeted and environmentally sustainable alternative to broad-spectrum insecticides for the management of invasive and pest insects. Current focal systems include Argentine ants, carpenter ants, leaf-cutter ants, and German cockroaches, with two focal species to be prioritized based on project needs and industry guidance. The postdoctoral associate will play a central role in shaping experiments, data analysis, and related reports and manuscripts, and the position is especially well suited for a candidate who enjoys integrating bioinformatic and laboratory approaches and is interested in building a research profile in insect genomics, functional genetics, or sustainable pest management.
This is a full-time (FTE 1.0), time-limited postdoctoral appointment. Initial funding is currently available for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year based on satisfactory progress and funding availability. Longer continuation may be possible if additional funding becomes available.
The successful candidate may begin as soon as feasible following completion of the hiring process. The latest possible start date is July 1, 2026.
Responsibilities
The University and College count among its greatest strengths a community of faculty, students and staff who support a culture of respect and dignity where learning and research thrive.
Expected Salary:
The anticipated starting salary is $58,656 annually, consistent with the current University of Florida minimum for postdoctoral associates. A higher starting salary may be considered in limited cases based on qualifications and available funding. The position includes eligibility for University of Florida employee benefits in accordance with university policies.
Required Qualifications:
Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date
Preferred:
Highly motivated applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Candidates do not need to match every preferred qualification to be considered, and experience that complements the goals of the project will be valued.
Applicants should submit the following materials:
Review of applications will begin on April 6, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions About The Position May Be Directed To:
Dr. Elizabeth Cash
e.cash@ufl.edu
Additional information about Dr. Cash's research program is available at: https://www.elizabethcash.com
Health Assessment Required:
No
Applications Close: 11 April 2026
To apply, visit https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/539093
Our Commitment:
The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392- 2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.
Copyright ©2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved.
Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency
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Work Type: Full Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)
Categories: Grant or Research Administration, Agricultural Sciences
Department: 19070000 - EG-ENG SCH SUSTAIN INFRST ENV
Job Description
Classification Title:
Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi-Based Insect Pest Management
Classification Minimum Requirements:
Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date
Job Description:
A postdoctoral associate position is available in the lab of Dr. Elizabeth Cash at the University of Florida for a researcher interested in insect molecular biology, genomics, chemical ecology, and applied pest management. The postdoctoral associate will contribute to a CAMTech-funded project focused on developing RNA interference (RNAi)-based control strategies for pest and invasive ants and cockroaches. The research will involve identifying and prioritizing RNAi target genes, designing and synthesizing dsRNA constructs, evaluating oral delivery formulations, measuring effects on survival and behavior, and validating gene knockdown using RT-qPCR. Based in the Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, this position also offers opportunities for collaboration across the University of Florida, including strong connections with Entomology and Nematology.
The successful applicant will help investigate how RNAi can be developed as a more targeted and environmentally sustainable alternative to broad-spectrum insecticides for the management of invasive and pest insects. Current focal systems include Argentine ants, carpenter ants, leaf-cutter ants, and German cockroaches, with two focal species to be prioritized based on project needs and industry guidance. The postdoctoral associate will play a central role in shaping experiments, data analysis, and related reports and manuscripts, and the position is especially well suited for a candidate who enjoys integrating bioinformatic and laboratory approaches and is interested in building a research profile in insect genomics, functional genetics, or sustainable pest management.
This is a full-time (FTE 1.0), time-limited postdoctoral appointment. Initial funding is currently available for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year based on satisfactory progress and funding availability. Longer continuation may be possible if additional funding becomes available.
The successful candidate may begin as soon as feasible following completion of the hiring process. The latest possible start date is July 1, 2026.
Responsibilities
- Design and conduct experiments related to RNAi target identification, dsRNA construct design, and delivery optimization
- Carry out molecular and genomic work, including sequence analysis, primer design, PCR, dsRNA synthesis, RNA extraction, cDNA preparation, and RT-qPCR
- Help establish and refine oral delivery assays in ants and other pest insects
- Conduct mortality, behavior, and other phenotype-based assays in laboratory colonies or group-based bioassays
- Analyze genomic, transcriptomic, and experimental datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools
- Prepare manuscripts, project reports, figures, and presentations
- Contribute to collaborative discussions with team members and industry advisors
- Mentor undergraduate researchers or other junior lab members working on the project
- Participate in a collegial, supportive, and inclusive research environment
The University and College count among its greatest strengths a community of faculty, students and staff who support a culture of respect and dignity where learning and research thrive.
Expected Salary:
The anticipated starting salary is $58,656 annually, consistent with the current University of Florida minimum for postdoctoral associates. A higher starting salary may be considered in limited cases based on qualifications and available funding. The position includes eligibility for University of Florida employee benefits in accordance with university policies.
Required Qualifications:
Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date
Preferred:
Highly motivated applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Candidates do not need to match every preferred qualification to be considered, and experience that complements the goals of the project will be valued.
- Evidence of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications or manuscripts in progress
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment
- Experience supporting or mentoring undergraduate student researchers
- Relevant experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Molecular biology and functional genetics, including RNA work, RT-qPCR, primer design, dsRNA synthesis, RNA interference (RNAi), gene expression analysis, or related molecular workflows
- Genomics, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics, including comparative genomics, sequence-based analyses, or related computational approaches
- Insect biology and experimental assays, including insect husbandry, behavioral assays, pest insect biology, or other laboratory-based insect research
- Quantitative data analysis, including experimental design, statistics, and use of R, Python, or similar tools for biological data analysis
Applicants should submit the following materials:
- A cover letter describing research experience, interest in the position, and relevant technical expertise
- A curriculum vitae
- A statement of research interests (optional if addressed fully in the cover letter)
- Contact information for two to three professional references
Review of applications will begin on April 6, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions About The Position May Be Directed To:
Dr. Elizabeth Cash
e.cash@ufl.edu
Additional information about Dr. Cash's research program is available at: https://www.elizabethcash.com
Health Assessment Required:
No
Applications Close: 11 April 2026
To apply, visit https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/539093
Our Commitment:
The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392- 2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.
Copyright ©2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved.
Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency
jeid-9e4a9bb1fcbf104db2bed953d530863d
Salary : $58,656