Post Doctoral Scholar Opportunity
University of California, Davis
Small Fruit Insect IPM Post-doctoral Position

A post-doctoral position is currently available for two years focusing on spotted wing drosophila (SWD) population biology, insecticide resistance, and management in California. This work will be based in the laboratory of Dr. Frank Zalom, Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616.

An established population of the spotted wing drosophila was first found in the western hemisphere in the Monterey Bay area of California. It has subsequently become widespread throughout North America and Canada as well as Europe, and is a major pest of berry and cherry crops. Field studies will be conducted in the Monterey Bay area where it is a major pest of berry crops and in the northern San Joaquin Valley where it is a major pest of sweet cherries, and laboratory studies will include research on insecticide resistant lines that have been established from field collections. This research will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Joanna Chiu. The Zalom lab also works on many other fruit pests and crops such as grapes, almonds, olives, and stone fruit, presenting an opportunity for additional research and extension experiences.

The successful candidate is expected to hold a recent (received within the last three years) Ph.D. in Entomology from a U.S. university with field research experience and an interest in working in a diverse specialty crop agricultural landscape. The candidate is expected to work independently, but as part of a team that includes students, other researchers and county Cooperative Extension Advisors. Ability to plan and execute hypothesis driven research projects that lead to publications in peer-reviewed journals is essential, and the opportunity to author such publications is immediate and excellent. Some experience in using molecular techniques within a research project is desirable, but not required.

Excellent oral and written communications in English are required, as is the ability to communicate in nontechnical terms to growers and crop consultants. The successful candidate is expected to obtain a California driver's license to drive to study sites for field studies throughout California. Interested candidates should send resume, names and contact information for three references to fgzalom@ucdavis.edu.

Salary is commensurate with experience, consistent with University of California policy.  The position carries standard benefits, including healthcare, applicable to these positions at the University of California, Davis. The University of California is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Closing Date: Position is available immediately and recruitment will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. Location: Davis, CA, USA