Do you love potatoes? Are you interested in the evolution of insects? Do you want to learn more about insect pests, insect genetics/epigenetics, and insecticide resistance?
A core focus of the Insect Agroecology and Evolution Lab in the Department of Plant and Soil Science is the development of sustainable methods for management of agricultural insect pests through a better understanding of their biology and evolution. We are looking for enthusiastic research assistants to join our team researching the evolution of the Colorado Potato Beetle. Learn more about Dr. Yolanda Chen and our research at our website: http://blog.uvm.edu/yfanslow/
This position is a great opportunity to gain experience running lab experiments with insects. Our lab maintains a colony of potato beetles that requires weekly care and year-round greenhouse production of potato plants. The research assistant will help design and carry out insecticide resistance trials with the Colorado Potato Beetle. Responsibilities include planting and growing potato plants in the greenhouse, feeding and rearing Colorado Potato Beetles, managing the Insect Agroecology Lab’s Potato Beetle Colony, developing and carrying out a 9-month insecticide resistance trial exploring the role of epigenetics in the evolution of insecticide resistance. Other tasks may include washing pots, trays, cages and plastic equipment.
Qualifications
Students must have a federal work study award for the spring 2017 semester to be considered for this paid position. We are seeking students with an attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, ability to keep a set schedule, familiarity with the scientific method and an interest in entomology required. Qualified candidates will have a general background in biology and research through previous coursework and/or applicable experience. Please email a cover letter and resume to Kristian Brevik at kbrevik@uvm.edu if you are interested in the position.
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Dr. Yolanda Chen
Associate Professor
University of Vermont
Dept. of Plant and Soil Sciences
63 Carrigan Drive
Burlington, VT 05405
Phone: +1 (802) 656-2627
Insect Agroecology and Evolution Lab