(This is a grant-funded, non-tenure track position being appointed for an initial 12-month period. Funding must be available for any continuation of appointment.)
Work Location: Louisiana State University Department of Entomology, East Baton Rouge Parish - Baton Rouge, LA 70803.
Position Description: The Sun Lab at Louisiana State University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a National Science Foundation-funded project focused on the plasticity of desiccation resistance in subterranean termites.
Research will involve analyzing cuticular hydrocarbons and other physiological traits, and utilizing molecular biology tools such as RNA-Seq and RNAi to determine the acclimation capacity for desiccation resistance and the underlying mechanisms in different termite species.
Some objectives of the work will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Henry Chung (Michigan State University) and Dr. Thomas Chouvenc (University of Florida). The candidate is also expected to mentor undergraduate students and participate in outreach activities.
Qualifications: This position requires a motivated and independent scientist with a Ph.D. in biology, entomology or a relevant field. The candidate should possess skills in molecular biology or bioinformatics. Research experience with social insects or insect desiccation resistance is preferred but not required.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2024, or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedures: Qualified candidates must apply online at LSU AgCenter Careers (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching file(s) containing a curriculum vita, a statement of research experience and interests, official university transcripts, and provide the names + contact information of three references. Questions about the online application system should be directed to the HRM Office at 225-578-0324. (Paper, faxed, or emailed application materials will not be accepted.) In lieu of attaching the letters of reference, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. Qian “Karen” Sun
Department of Entomology
Louisiana State University
A511 Life Sciences Annex
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Phone: 225-578-1831
Email: qsun@agcenter.lsu.edu
Web site: AgCenter website
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.