Fellow (Post Doc)

The Department of Entomology seeks a Fellow Post Doc to support research on the objectives from the incoming NACA agreement from USDA-ARS Center for Grain and Animal Health Research.

The successful candidate will be responsible for performing bioinformatics to analyze data obtained through sequencing of microbes from stored product insects, and will support publication of this data in peer-reviewed outlets. The key responsibilities include: sequence analysis for microbiomes of insect populations. The goal is to provide novel insights into the microbial ecology of insects that infest commodities after harvest.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct mentored research activities focused on microbial communities associated with stored product insects under the guidance of principal investigators and senior research personnel.
• Analyze large longitudinal datasets using R software, bioinformatics techniques, and high-performance computing systems to support research objectives and scholarly outcomes.
• Develop and apply analytical methodologies to interpret complex biological and microbial data.
• Collect, compile, organize, and maintain accurate research data and records in accordance with laboratory and sponsor requirements.
• Contribute to the advancement of research objectives through independent problem solving, data interpretation, and scientific analysis.
• Prepare peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, and scholarly materials summarizing research findings related to microbial communities associated with stored product insects.
• Collaborate with faculty mentors, staff, and interdisciplinary research teams to refine study methodologies, data interpretation, and research outcomes.
• Assist with the preparation of conference materials, grant-related documents, presentations, and publication submissions.
• Maintain comprehensive laboratory notebook records, research documentation, and organized experimental data files.
• Participate in mentored professional development activities designed to strengthen research, publication, and scientific communication skills.

Ranked #4 globally, our department drives impactful research, delivers comprehensive education, and provides essential extension services at local, national, and international scales. We tackle critical challenges in food security, plant protection, animal health, conservation, and ecosystem services through innovative basic and applied research on arthropods. Our faculty are leaders in the field-23% rank among the top 2% of scientists worldwide-and maintain strong external collaborations to advance discovery and learner success. With a 98% graduate placement rate, robust funding portfolio, and specialized training opportunities, we offer an exceptional environment for professional growth. The successful candidate will play a key role in our expanding undergraduate program, inspiring students and preparing them for impactful careers in entomology. For further information, visit https://entomology.k-state.edu/.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D., Ed.D., DVM) in a field related to the assigned responsibilities. The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in entomology
• 1-2 years of prior postdoctoral research experience after Ph.D.
• Research experience in both microbial ecology AND stored product entomology
• Prior experience using R Software and packages for data analysis preferred.
• Skills in isolating DNA, performing PCR, and/or preparing samples for sequencing preferred.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume/CV
2. Contact information for three professional references

Applications close on: June 17, 2026

$60,000 - $68,000