Postdoctoral Fellow - Solitary bee pesticide toxicity and risk assessment

Overview

The Utah State University Chemistry and Biochemistry Department and the Pollinating Insects Research Unit (PIRU) of the USDA Agricultural Research Service are searching for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in toxicology and entomology. This is a full‑time, temporary appointment of 2 years, based at Utah State University. The postdoc will work directly with Drs. Kimberly Hageman (USU) and Kelsey Graham (USDA ARS) in Logan, UT, and with collaborators at Washington State University (Dr.

Douglas Walsh) in Prosser, WA. The project aims to develop standardized methods for conducting quantitative pesticide risk assessments that include the diverse exposure pathways encountered by solitary bees. Responsibilities include conducting experiments to determine lethal and sub‑lethal toxicity endpoints for two solitary bee species – the alfalfa leafcutting bee (Megachile rotundata) and the alkali bee (Nomia melanderi). The postdoc will also lead semi‑field studies to evaluate higher‑tier risk assessments for pesticide exposures and determine how different routes of exposure impact bee health.

The research will provide critical information on how toxicity and exposures differ between solitary bees and the western honey bee (Apis mellifera), which is the model system for this type of work in the US.

PhD in Environmental Chemistry, Entomology, Biological Sciences, or related disciplines appropriate to this position. This position is not eligible for H‑1B sponsorship.