What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Specialist position at Virginia Tech Academy of Data Science?
- 537207
- Blacksburg, Virginia
- Entomology
- Staff
- Agriculture & Life Sciences
Job Description
Responsible for supervising and participating in extension and research projects related to urban and structural pest management. All projects include frequent travel throughout the state. Duties include evaluation of literature relevant to research projects; design, modification, and evaluation of research projects; generating reports for sponsors; and presentation of research projects. Additional responsibilities include supervision of hourly workers, and the management, coordination and upkeep of the laboratory insect colonies, vehicles, and equipment. Further responsibilities include maintaining the VT Bed Bug Urban Pest Management Center website and social media assets; interacting with research sponsors; and assisting graduate students. Reports to the Urban Pest Management specialist, and will assist in overall program coordination.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Entomology, Biology or related area, or equivalent years of training & experience; Laboratory experience in a biological field or pest management; Experience using the scientific method in research design and field research experience; Strong computer skills and ability to maintain a basic website using modern content management systems; Proficient in standard software including, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. The successful candidate will need to work well with pest management professionals, the public, public housing administrators and residents and have the ability to work both independently and as part of a team; Travel within the state of Virginia is required (often overnight); Must have a valid driver’s license, and a good driving record; Some manual labor and lifting will be required; must be willing to work in cockroach and bed bug infested dwellings; Must have or be able to obtain a Category 10 pesticide applicator license within the first 6 months of employment.
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with basic statistical packages is desired, as is experience with small power equipment, such as soil augers, drills, weed whackers etc.
Pay Band
4
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
55,336-59,253
Hours per week
40 hours a week
Review Date
08/06/2026
Additional Information
Funding for this position is available for one year, additional years of funding dependent on future grants.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
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