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

General Statement

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.

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.

Required Qualifications Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

• 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

• 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.

The Successful Candidate Will

• Be an enthusiastic, motivated individual who works as a team member in support of the MSU-AES mission.
• Follow instructions and be able to work cooperatively with others, as well as independently.
• Learn new skills and carry out the duties of the position in an efficient manner by being detail-oriented and having the ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Critical thinker who can effectively prioritize and manager several projects at once.
• Demonstrate proficiency in writing and ability to publish.

The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Position Special Requirements / Additional Information 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. Physical Demands

• Must have the ability to maneuver up to 80 pounds.
• Must have the ability to navigate uneven terrain.
• Position will require the employee to work both indoors and outdoors.
• Exposure to all types of adverse weather conditions.
• Exposure to airborne irritants such as dust, pollen, and chemicals.
• Must be willing to work outside of traditional business hours when research protocols dictate.
• Occasional in-and-out-of-state travel will be required.

This position has supervisory duties? Yes