Work Location: LSU AgCenter, School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803.
Position Description: The job entails coordination of laboratory, mesocosm, and field research related to chemical weed management for invasive aquatic plant species. Duties will include the design, establishment, maintenance, evaluation, and collection of data from herbicide and integrated pest management (IPM) research studies. The applicant should also be able to coordinate, train, and supervise student employees. In-state travel will be an important component of this position.
The successful candidate will also be responsible for the coordination of rearing salvinia weevils (Cyrtobagous salviniae) in outdoor mesocosms (tanks) and earthen ponds located at the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Facility in Baton Rouge, LA. The candidate would be responsible for the inoculation of giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) into the mesocosms or ponds, fertilization of plants, pest removal, inoculation of weevils, monitoring of pond conditions, and harvest of insects/plant for field release. Regular maintenance of mesocosms and ponds will include pesticide applications, collection of water quality data, and weevil density (adults and larvae counts). The associate will work closely with the LA Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to coordinate the harvest of weevil-infested salvinia for distribution throughout the state.
Physical activities related to this job may include but not limited to periodic lifting of 40 lbs., mowing perimeter of mesocosm facility and ponds, using herbicide application equipment, operating state trucks and boats, operation/maintenance of machinery, and harvesting of plant material from tanks and ponds. The successful candidate will also prepare reports for sponsors and will work closely with LDWF and other industry sponsors.
Qualification Requirements: B.S. or M.S. in plant science, natural resource management, or related field. Course work or experience in Agronomy/Horticulture/Weed Science/Entomology/Integrated Pest Management is preferred. Experience with the management of aquatic weeds using herbicides and biocontrol is desired. Familiarity with the handling of pesticides, knowledge of weed management, insect rearing, boat operation, and computer applications are desirable. We seek a candidate with good writing skills and oral communication.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: January 2, 2024 or until a suitable applicant is located.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching cover letter along with current resume, official university transcripts, and contact information for three references. Paper, faxed or emailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the recommendation letters online, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. David H. Picha
School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences
104 Sturgis Hall
Baton Rouge, LA, 70803
Email: DPicha@agcenter.lsu.edu
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.
