Entomology And Nematology Department

Employment Opportunities

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Notice of Public Meeting, Hearing or Workshop (1)

Notice of Public Meeting, Hearing or Workshop (2)

FACULTY

Currently there are no Faculty openings

Currently there are no Faculty openings

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS

Harnessing Microbiomes to Develop Novel Insect Attractants

The Wong Laboratory in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research program investigating how insect-associated microbiomes shape host behavior and how these interactions can be harnessed to develop novel semiochemical-based tools for pest monitoring and management.

Our research seeks to identify microbial-derived chemical signals that modulate insect behavior by integrating microbiome science, chemical ecology, insect behavior, analytical chemistry, and molecular biology. We combine basic research of insect-microbe interactions with translational research to develop microbial-based attractants and repellents for the management of economically important agricultural pests.

The successful candidate will lead a USDA-funded project to develop microbial-based attractants for screwworm flies, while also contributing to broader research initiatives on other agricultural pests, including spotted-wing drosophila, stink bugs, and other invasive insects.

Minimum qualifications:
• Ph.D. in Entomology, Microbiology, Chemical Ecology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Proficient in experimental design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing.

Preferred qualifications:
Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable:
• Insect behavior and behavioral assay optimization.
• Volatile chemical analysis using GC-MS and/or LC-MS.
• Microbial isolation, culturing, or microbiome research.

Salary: $59,000 plus fringe benefits.

Start date: Flexible.

Duration: Two-year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

To apply, please submit a CV and a cover letter in pdf files to Dr. Adam CN Wong (adamcnwong@ufl.edu) with the subject line “Postdoc application: microbiome". Please include the contact information of at least two references familiar with your work.

The University of Florida is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We welcome nominations of and applications from anyone who would bring additional dimensions to the university's research, teaching and extension mission, including women, members of minority groups, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS

Graduate Research Assistant – Ph.D. Student Position Opening Molecular Nematode Interactions
Position Summary:
The newly established multidisciplinary Plant-Nematode-Microbe interactions laboratory at University of Florida is looking for its first ever graduate student.

We are seeking a highly motivated student to work on deciphering molecular bases of plant-nematode-microbe interactions. The student will use molecular biology, biochemistry and computational techniques to decipher the dynamics of nematode interactions with plants, microbes and other nematodes. This Ph.D. position is hosted by the department of Entomology and Nematology at University of Florida, Gainesville.

Expected Start Date: Summer 2026

Minimum Qualifications:
- A research-based master’s degree with a strong record of research publication in – Molecular Biology/ Plant Biology and Physiology/ Plant Pathology/ Biochemistry/ Microbiology/ Ecology/ Nematology or any other relevant major.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Ability to lead and be led to work with other team members as required.
- Aptitude to work in both greenhouse and in laboratory settings performing in vitro and in silico analyses.
Application Process:
Applicants should submit the following materials to Dr. Rajendran via email only (deepakrajendran@ufl.edu):
1. 3-page Curriculum vitae (CV) / Resume with a clear publication record.
2. Unofficial transcripts for all the University degrees earned.
3. 1-page Personal statement outlining candidate’s interests and how they fit in the program.
4. 1-page Research statement outlining candidate’s research interests relevant to the lab (deepakhaarith.com) – potential projects and research questions to explore.
5. TOEFL or IELTS test scores (for international applicants). GRE scores are not required but preferred.
6. Contact information of at least 3 references.
Deadline:
All applications need to be sent in via email only (deepakrajendran@ufl.edu) by 30th of September 2025 4 p.m. EST (GMT -06:00h).A short-list of candidates will be invited for an online interview by the 31st of October 2025. For any questions or clarifications, please email Dr. Deepak Rajendran.

STAFF POSITIONS

Currently there are no staff openings

Currently there are no staff openings

OPS POSITIONS

OPS Research Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida

SUMMARY OF POSITION ROLE/RESPONSIBILITIES:
We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our research team (Adam CN Wong’s lab):

Key responsibilities include:
- Maintain insect (especially Drosophila) colonies in the lab.
- Conduct insect behavioral assays, including the use of a video tracking system and olfactometers
- Perform DNA/RNA isolation from insect tissues for high throughput sequencing.
- Perform bacterial and fungal culturing.
- Make axenic and gnotobiotic
The position is available immediately, but the exact start date is negotiable. Training will be provided.

OTHER CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POSITION
Excellent time management and communication skills, organized, a good team player.

Minimum qualifications:
Bachelor degree in entomology, biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biology or closely related fields.

EMPLOYMENT TYPE AND SALARY
OPS. Full-time (part-time will be considered but no less than 20h/week).
$15-21/h depending on qualifications and experience.

To inquire/apply:

Email adamcnwong@ufl.edu for more information. To apply, please submit a CV and at least two reference contacts.