Research Associate – Entomology Program, WTARC *Conrad, MT*

at  Montana State University

The Western Triangle Ag Research Center (WTARC) consists of 75 acres and serves agricultural producers by conducting relevant research in cereals, oilseeds, pulses, and forage crops and disseminates the garnered information to the public. The current research center staff is comprised of one superintendent/agronomist, one entomologist, one administrative assistant, one research associate, one farm operation assistant, and several research assistants. A local advisory board made up of area producers and industry representatives from the surrounding counties, provides guidance on WTARC research priorities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS – EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• B.S. in Biology, Entomology, Agronomy, Environmental Science or closely related discipline.
• Basic knowledge of insect biology and ecology.
• Experience in field and greenhouse experiments, which include planting, harvesting and crop management.
• Experience in use of word processing, spreadsheet, and statistical software.
• Demonstrate science writing ability.
• Must have or obtain an MT pesticide applicators license within 3 months of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS – EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• M.S. in Biology, Agronomy, Entomology, Environmental Science or closely related discipline.
• Experience in handling insects.
• Experience in chemical mixing and application for small plot research.
• Experience in arthropod identification.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING AVAILABILITY

• Possess or have the ability to obtain a Government Montana Pesticide Applicators License within 3 months of hire.
• Position requires seasonal weekend and/or evening hours in conjunction with farming activities.
  This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
  Montana State University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the WTARC entomologist and is expected to carry out tasks, including, but not limited to:

• Maintaining insect colonies.
• Performing bioassay on target insect species.
• Manage the laboratory and maintain the lab instruments.
• Prepare for planting experimental trials, planting, harvesting, sample processing, and crop management for the field and greenhouse trials of cereal grains and other various crops.
• Collecting insect samples.
• Assisting in upkeep of plot research trials.
• Assisting in data analysis, data interpretation and dissemination.
• Aid in writing reports and publications.
• Other minor duties as assigned.