Research Associate

About This Role

Kansas State University's Department of Entomology seeks a Research Associate to develop and test the use of nanoparticles as insecticides for selected agricultural, medical, and livestock arthropod pests.

The Research Associate will support a multidisciplinary research program focused on the development and evaluation of nanoparticle-based insecticides targeting arthropod pests that affect agriculture, public health, and livestock. This position will independently conduct laboratory and field-based studies to assess the efficacy, safety, and delivery mechanisms of nanoparticle formulations. Working under the guidance of senior researchers, the Research Associate will be responsible for experiment design, data collection and analysis, and the preparation of research findings for publication and presentation.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct lab and field research to delineate the efficacy of potential nano pesticides to arthropods of agricultural and livestock importance, including nano products aimed at major weed species.
• Design, conduct, analysis and interpretation of data related to this nano product development.
• Design and conduct laboratory and/or field experiments to test nanoparticle-based insecticides on target arthropod pests.
• Maintain insect colonies and prepare test populations for experiments.
• Apply nanoparticle treatments and monitor pest responses using standardized bioassay techniques.
• Write up all results for professional journals, scientific presentations, and cooperate in presenting guest lectures and/or Team Teaching classes related to nano technology.
• Compile, organize, and analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical methods and software.

About Us

Kansas State University’s Entomology Department is ranked 4th best Entomology department in the world alongside 23% of faculty being ranked in the top 2% of scientists. The members of the Department of Entomology inherently understand that anyone can find success and opportunities in Entomology. From the insects we study, to the systems we research, to the students we mentor, to the places we come from, to the cultures we practice, we are enriched by our unique differences. For further information, visit https://entomology.k-state.edu/

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a master's degree and two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS/Ph.D. in nanotechnology or inorganic chemistry
• Experience handling and testing arthropod pests in laboratory or field settings.
• Demonstrated success publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• At least two years of relevant research experience, preferably involving insect toxicology, pest management, or nanomaterials.
• Experience designing and conducting biological experiments, including statistical data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume or CV
2. Contact information for three professional references

Application Window

Applications close on November 1, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$50,000 - $69,000