Post-Master's / Postdoctoral Research Opportunity in Plant Ecology

The Environmental Laboratory (EL) provides relevant, value-added technology supporting the environmental mission of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Army, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Nation. Headquartered in Vicksburg, Mississippi, the EL’s interdisciplinary staff of over 220 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel plans and executes all phases of the technology development process, from basic research to field implementation to commercialization. The EL staff consists of problem solvers who use research, development, experimentation, special studies, and technical support to address the needs of national and international business development partners. Partnering with Federal and State agencies, academia, and the private sector, the EL uses its distinctive technical capabilities to resolve complex, multi-disciplinary environmental sustainability problems. 

Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will gain experience in plant ecology and biological control of insect or weed pests. The participant will be broadly trained and participate in a number of research projects related to invasive species ecology and management and insect-plant interactions. Specific research opportunities may include: improving the use of host-specific insect herbivores to manage environmental weeds through selection for improved cold-hardiness (classical biological control), determining the importance of genetic diversity in large-scale plant invasions and its importance for classical biological control, implementing biological control of Brazilian peppertree using a recently approved agent, and integrated pest management of environmental weeds through a combination of biological and chemical control methods. There is potential to gain additional research experience in diverse areas such as fate and transport of environmental contaminants through trophic interactions, plant disease-vector dynamics, forest pest management, and experimental design and statistical modeling.

This appointment is a full-time twelve month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

Participants will receive a stipend to be determined by USACE. Stipends are typically based on the participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other benefits may include the following:

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOD, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

Ph.D. or M.S. in Entomology or related field. Knowledge in biological control, pests of natural and agricultural systems, and invasive plant ecology. Strong publication record, demonstrated self-motivation, the ability to research with a multi-disciplinary team. The participant should be proficient in experimental design, data collection and management, and basic statistical analyses.