Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Isaacs in the Department of Entomology at MSU invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position to study Integrated Pest and Pollinator Management, with a focus on developing and testing new management approaches for blueberry production.

The position will include field-based research and supporting laboratory research on how different management approaches can support beneficial insects to enhance crop yield and quality. Funding is primarily from a new USDA grant, and the position will connect to ongoing research and extension programs in the laboratory, collaborating with plant pathologists and with MSU Extension pollinator and farm economics programs. This position is well supported by research technicians, a network of university-based staff, and growers working with our lab group.

The funding is available for 2+ years, with the initial appointment for 12 months. Annual renewal is expected, based on positive job performance.

Our lab group is based in the Department of Entomology within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University. MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to employee development through creating and sustaining a work environment that values diversity and encourages professional development. We are interested in candidates of all backgrounds who are committed to the principle that academic excellence is achieved through open access and proactive inclusion.

As an institution of higher learning, Michigan State University is committed to providing a safe environment for its students, faculty, and staff in support of its educational mission. With this commitment, the University conducts criminal background checks and professional misconduct reviews of all applicants for employment in faculty, academic staff, and executive management searches.

A professional misconduct review is a prerequisite for a candidate to be selected for this position. Applicants will be asked to disclose whether they are subject to any pending investigation, findings or sanctions related to professional misconduct. Professional misconduct includes misconduct related to a person’s employment, including, but not limited to, theft, embezzlement, research integrity, discrimination, or harassment under civil rights laws and policies, including protected identity harassment, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct (sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, etc.), and retaliation. All applicants will be asked to sign an authorization and release, which authorizes the University to contact the candidate’s current and former employers, for a period of 7 years prior to the date of application, related to any pending investigations, findings of responsibility and/or sanctions related to professional misconduct. Nothing will be sent to current or former employers unless the candidate reaches the semi-finalist stage.

The existence of professional misconduct history does not automatically exclude a candidate from employment. The University will assess the history, including any information provided by the candidate, in determining whether it is compatible with the position. The University may decline to hire a candidate based on the professional misconduct review. All records obtained from external employers will be kept in a secure location, separate from personnel files. If an applicant fails to sign the authorization and release, the application will be deemed incomplete and will be withdrawn.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -insect ecology, entomology, biology or similar discipline

Minimum Requirements

Research experience in entomology, ecology, biological control, pest management, biology or related fields with evidence of a successful publication record, grant writing experience, and ability to work in teams with people from diverse backgrounds. Interest in delivering research-based extension information to fruit growers and beekeepers. Fieldwork will take place across the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, so candidates must possess a valid driver’s license, and be available for intermittent overnight stays.

Desired Qualifications

• Expertise in data analysis and technical writing
• Experience with entomology fieldwork
• Project management and logistics

• Demonstrated capacity to manage people in fieldwork settings

• Evidence of research publications 
• Experience with on-farm research or extension programs
• Experience preparing grant proposals

• Availability to start work during fall 2026 or early 2027

Experience working with fruit crops is desired, but applicants with expertise in pest management, pollinator ecology or management, extension, and/or data analysis in other crop systems are encouraged to apply.

Required Application Materials

Candidates must submit: 1) a cover letter describing research interests and career goals including a statement of your interest and experience in fostering an inclusive environment, 2) your curriculum vitae, 3) names and contact information for three references, and 4) up to three representative publications. Potential applicants with questions should contact Dr. Isaacs at isaacsr@msu.edu

Website

www.canr.msu.edu/ent/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.