(This is a grant-funded, non-tenure track position through 12/31/2027. Continuation of the appointment beyond this initial date will be contingent on availability of funding.

Work Location: Department of Entomology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge.

Position Description: A grant-funded post-doctoral position is available to oversee a program of research to develop detection and management strategies for the rice delphacid, an invasive pest of rice in the southern United States. The post-doctoral researcher will be expected to independently lead a program to evaluate commercial varieties of rice for resistance to the rice delphacid. The researcher will cooperate with the PI and co-PIs to design and execute laboratory studies of the interactions among delphacids and rice or alternate hosts, cooperate with breeders to begin the development of resistant varieties, and collaborate with co-PIs to develop improved methods for detecting the delphacid, including eDNA-based strategies. Supervision of undergraduate students will be required.

Qualification Requirements: A PhD in Entomology or related discipline and prior experience with management of rice pests is required.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: November 4, 2026, or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at LSU AgCenter Careers (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and three letters of reference. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the reference letters online, they may be sent directly to:

Tyler Musgrove
H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station, LSU AgCenter
1373 Caffey Rd., Rayne, LA 70578
Phone: 337-788-7531
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.