A Postdoctoral Scholar research position in chemical ecology of insect-plant interactions is available in the newly established laboratory of Dr. Monica Kersch-Becker in the Department of Entomology at The Pennsylvania State University. This position will explore the mechanisms that underlie plant-arthropod interactions. In particular, we are interested in the role of plant chemical defenses mediating predator-prey interactions and how environmental factors influence the strength of tritrophic interactions.
Education and Experience: Applicants are required to have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field and be able to provide evidence that all requirements have been met for completion of the Ph.D. prior to the effective date of hire. The ideal candidate is a talented researcher that is hardworking, creative, and, above all, competent with manuscript writing. Applications from creative individuals interested in bringing their own personal expertise and ideas to the projects are welcome.
Applicants must have a passion for field, greenhouse and laboratory work, competence with statistical analyses, and strong writing skills. Responsibilities will include plant and insect rearing, chemical analyses, microbiome analyses, planning and supervising experiments, student mentoring, data management and analysis, manuscript preparation and submission.
This is a limit term position funded for one year from date of hire with good possibility of refunding and dependent on performance. Includes competitive salary and benefits. Penn State offers a range of professional development opportunities.
Application information: To be considered for this position, submit completed application including a cover letter detailing experience and research interests, a current CV, contact information for three professional references, and two representative publications. Application review will begin January 6, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. The successful applicant would ideally start in Summer 2023, but start date is negotiable. Applicants interested in the position are encouraged to contact Dr. Monica Kersch-Becker mfkb@psu.edu before applying.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires the following clearances: PA State Police Criminal Background check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. It also requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid US driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to the clearances.
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Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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