Temporary Researcher - Agriculture Research Support

The Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota seeks a motivated researcher to coordinate laboratory and field research examining insecticide compatibility with the winsome fly (Istocheta aldrichi), a parasitoid of Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica). This project, funded by the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center (MITPPC), aims to identify management practices that effectively suppress Japanese beetle populations while conserving beneficial parasitoids.

The researcher will work closely with the principal investigator and collaborators to implement experiments, develop and refine insect collection and rearing protocols, analyze data, and communicate research findings to scientific and practitioner audiences. This is a 100% full-time, grant‑funded, temporary position which is expected to begin in early 2027 and continue through December 2028, contingent upon availability of funding and satisfactory performance.

Fieldwork will be seasonally intensive, particularly during summer months. Work will be fully in‑person. Please note, this position is not eligible for H‑1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

• Coordinate collection, maintenance, and rearing of Japanese beetles and winsome flies.
• Implement standardized insecticide bioassays evaluating host mortality and parasitoid development.
• Maintain overwintering cohorts and document parasitoid pupariation, survival, and adult emergence.
• Maintain research protocols, biological material inventories, and laboratory records.

• Coordinate seasonal insect collections and monitor Japanese beetle and winsome fly phenology.
• Establish and maintain field insecticide trials at cooperating locations.
• Assess beetle abundance, plant feeding injury, and insecticide residue persistence.
• Coordinate field logistics, materials, and undergraduate research assistance as appropriate.

• Maintain research databases and conduct preliminary statistical analyses.
• Interpret results in collaboration with the research team.
• Contribute to scientific manuscripts, research reports, and conference presentations.
• Participate in regular project meetings and research planning.

• Assist with consultations involving growers, land managers, and horticultural practitioners.
• Contribute to development of practical, research‑based Japanese beetle management recommendations.
• Assist with Extension presentations and educational resources.

• Bachelor's degree in entomology, biology, horticulture, or a closely related field plus at least two years of relevant experience or a combination of education and relevant work experience equal to at least 6 years.
• Experience conducting entomological laboratory or field research.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate research records, follow experimental protocols, and organize research activities.
• Strong organizational, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• MS degree in Entomology or a related field.
• Experience with Japanese beetle, winsome fly, parasitoid biology, or biological control research.
• Experience with insect collection, rearing, and experimental bioassays.
• Experience conducting insecticide efficacy experiments and field trials.
• Familiarity with experimental design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing.
• Interest in applied research, integrated pest management, and Extension education.

Pay Range: $27.26- $29.30 per hour; depending on…