Monday, April 18, 2016

Post Doc Sought: Spotted Wing Drosophila

Post-doctoral fellowship to study the biology of spotted wing drosophila (SWD) populations in California’s agricultural landscapes, and to conduct research on novel management methods. This work will be based in the laboratory of Dr. Frank Zalom, Distinguished Professor and Extension Entomologist, Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616.

A post-doctoral position is currently available for a minimum of one year to study spotted wing drosophila (SWD) population biology and management in California.  Further extension is dependent on continued availability of funds and satisfactory progress.  SWD was first found in the Monterey Bay area of California, and the Zalom lab at UC Davis conducted the initial studies of its biology.  It has subsequently become widespread throughout North America and Canada, and is a major pest of berry and cherry crops. One main goal of this project is to study SWD populations in the Monterey Bay area where it is a major pest of berry crops and in the northern San Joaquin Valley where if is a major pest of sweet cherries to better define aspects of it biology such as movement between crop and non-crop hosts and overwintering. This research will be conducted in collaboration with Dr. Joanna Chiu and focused on establishing amount of genetic variability between local populations. Another goal is to conduct field studies of novel methods of SWD control.

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 agricultural landscape. The candidate is expected to be capable of working independently. Ability to plan and execute hypothesis driven research projects that lead to publications in peer-reviewed journals is essential. Some knowledge or experience in using molecular techniques within a research project is desirable.

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

Salary is commensurate with experience.  The position carries standard benefits, including healthcare, applicable to these positions at the University of California, Davis. University of California is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.
Closing Date: This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified.
Organization Type: Academic

Location: Davis, CA, USA

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