Do you enjoy watching insects and studying animal behavior? Do you want to learn more about sustainable pest management and agroecology?

The UVM Insect Agroecology and Evolution Lab (IAEL) is looking for an enthusiastic summer laboratory research technician to serve as a project manager conducting experiments to learn more about the behavior of swede midge, an invasive fly that is a pest of kale, broccoli, cabbage, and other related crops. There are currently few effective organic management strategies for this pest, and growers in Vermont suffer devastating yield losses of their crops from swede midge damage annually. We are interested in learning more about the midge’s reproductive and host plant-seeking behavior so that we can create management systems that can prevent mating and protect crops from damage. Learn more about our lab and swede midge research at our website: http://blog.uvm.edu/yfanslow/

As a member of the IAEL’s swede midge research team, the technician will manage scheduling, logistics and implementation of experiments as well as assist in caring for the lab’s swede midge colony. During the summer months, the IAEL cares for up to 3,000 midges, which require daily feeding and watering. Other tasks include seeding, transplanting, and washing pots used to grow plants in the campus greenhouse to feed the colony.

Qualified candidates will be self-motivated, able to work independently, and will have completed courses in biology, evolution, and ecology. Previous project management and research experience required. Attention to detail and organization are key skills for this position. We expect the technician to adhere to a set schedule that includes early mornings (M-F 7 am – 2 pm) so that experiments can be conducted during the time of day when the insects are active.

To apply, please send a resume with list of three references, academic transcript, and email expressing interest to both Elisabeth Hodgdon (elisabeth.hodgdon@uvm.edu), IAEL PhD Candidate, and Dr. Yolanda Chen, P.I (yolanda.chen@uvm.edu) by April 1, 2017. Interviews will begin the first week of April.

Although the start date for this position is May 29, 2017, additional training dates in April are required. Starting hourly pay rate $12.50.

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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