Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi- Insect Pest Management

Postdoctoral Associate in RNAi-Based Insect Pest Management

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 include designing and conducting experiments related to RNAi target identification, dsRNA construct design, and delivery optimization; carrying out molecular and genomic work, including sequence analysis, primer design, PCR, dsRNA synthesis, RNA extraction, cDNA preparation, and RT-qPCR; helping establish and refine oral delivery assays in ants and other pest insects; conducting mortality, behavior, and other phenotype-based assays in laboratory colonies or group-based bioassays;

analyzing genomic, transcriptomic, and experimental datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools; preparing manuscripts, project reports, figures, and presentations; contributing to collaborative discussions with team members and industry advisors; mentoring undergraduate researchers or other junior lab members working on the project; and participating in a collegial, supportive, and inclusive research environment.

The University of Florida is a leading public research university and a member of the State University System of Florida. Gainesville offers a strong scientific community, an affordable cost of living compared with many major research hubs, and access to a wide range of natural areas, field sites, and collaborative research programs across campus. The Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences provides an interdisciplinary setting, and the postdoctoral associate will also benefit from the broader intellectual community at UF, including collaborative opportunities in entomology, genomics, ecology, and applied agricultural and environmental research.

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 include a Ph.D. in biological sciences (e.g., entomology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, ecology, or a closely related field) by the start date. Preferred qualifications include evidence of research productivity, 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, and relevant experience in molecular biology and functional genetics, genomics and transcriptomics, insect biology and experimental assays, and quantitative data analysis.

Applicants should submit 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); and…