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Postdoctoral Position in Insect Systematics
A postdoctoral position is available through a collaborative effort between the
University of California at Davis (UCD) and the California Department of Food
and Agriculture (CDFA). This position is to study systematics of Tephritidae
(Insecta: Diptera) of economic importance, with joint appointment between UCD's
Department of Entomology and CDFA's Plant Pest Diagnostic Branch, two groups
with a strong working relationship.
The major focal areas for this position will be:
1. Perform original research on the systematics of Tephritidae, using a
question-driven approach and utilizing relevant methodologies as necessary,
including, for example, phylogenetic analyses of morphological character
systems, molecular methods, biogeographical studies, and analyses of patterns of
host utilization and phytophagy.
2. Development of molecular diagnostic tools (e.g., markers) for two main
purposes (A & B below), both of which will greatly aid in the accurate and
timely diagnostics of potential invasive pests into California,and will help in
developing diagnostics protocols for invasive fruit flies worldwide:
A) to expand the ability of making accurate species-level
identifications of larval fruit flies
B) to aid in populational analyses of certain key pest species to
foster identifications of specific origins and pathways of pest introduction
into California
The research will be performed in the CDFA Plant Pest Diagnostics Lab in
Sacramento, California, which is home to the California State Collection of
Arthropods and houses a large, cryogenically frozen tissue collection of
Tephritidae. The lab has a fully equipped and staffed molecular facility;
prepared samples are sent off-site for sequencing. Beyond research, the
successful candidate will be responsible for curating the tephritid tissue
collection, which is an extensive resource for fruit fly molecular genetic
research world-wide.
Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent degree in evolutionary biology,
entomology, or a related field. Desired qualifications include experience in
PCR-based molecular genetic methods, quantitative phylogenetic methodology, and
experience with diagnostic methods for Diptera. Exceptional candidates with
experience in other areas, methods, or taxa will also be considered. The
position's duration is 3 years, with salary starting at US$40,000 plus benefits,
and all associated research costs. Review of applications will begin on March
1, 2003, and will continue until a candidate is selected.
To apply, please send a detailed letter of interest, CV, and contact information
(including email addresses) for three references, to Dr. Steve Gaimari via
e-mail (sgaimari at cdfa.ca.gov) or regular mail (address below). If you need more
information, please feel free to contact me or Dr. Dennis Mayhew (CDFA Branch
Chief, dmayhew at cdfa.ca.gov).
Plant Pest Diagnostics Branch
California Department of Food and Agriculture
3294 Meadowview Road
Sacramento, CA 95832-1448, USA
