The Department of Entomology at the University of Kentucky invites applicants for a tenure-eligible faculty position in urban landscape entomology. The ideal candidate will develop a creative research and teaching program focused on understanding urban landscape arthropods while considering stakeholder needs. Areas of emphasis could include but are not limited to restoration, conservation, improving ecosystem services, implementing innovative management strategies, and/or decreasing reliance on conventional chemical pest management. We seek a solutions-oriented candidate who will use ecological, genetic, geographic, computational, microbial and/or other innovative tools to address landscape pest problems in urban settings. Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration is particularly encouraged. The successful candidate will have broad knowledge of arthropod biology, ecology, interactions with plants and microbes, and/or arthropod interactions with the built environment. Expertise in biological control, invasive or emerging pests, and/or horticultural systems are strengths.
Selection criteria will include complementarity with existing departmental expertise, enthusiasm for teaching and mentorship, and an ability to interact with stakeholder groups (including K-12 institutions). Candidates with demonstrated experience translating research findings into management strategies relevant to urban landscapes are particularly encouraged to apply. In addition to conducting research, this position includes teaching up to two courses per year, including Horticultural Entomology, Integrated Pest Management, and/or Biological Control, and a new course in the candidate’s area of expertise. Other responsibilities will include advising graduate students and contributing to department, college, and university governance.
Applicants should submit a CV, statements of research and teaching interests (2-3 pages each; upload under Specific Request 1), a statement of diversity indicating how your previous experiences have prepared you to contribute to an inclusive institutional culture (1 page; upload under Specific Request 2), up to five selected reprints (upload under Specific Request 3), and an application cover letter describing background and expertise specifically related to this position at the University of Kentucky. Please also include the names and addresses of four individuals who may be contacted for letters of reference when prompted in the application process.
Application priority deadline is December 1, 2022, however this posting will remain open until filled.
Candidates may contact Drs. Lynne Rieske-Kinney (
Lrieske@uky.edu) or Clare Rittschof (
clare.rittschof@uky.edu) Co-chairs, Search Committee.
The University of Kentucky considers the health, safety and well-being of our entire community to be a top priority. In alignment with this priority, all new hires must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or obtain an approved medical or religious exemption as a condition of employment. For areas that fall under the federal CMS mandate, start of employment cannot occur until two weeks after receiving the full COVID-19 vaccination series or upon obtaining an approved exemption. Only vaccines approved by the World Health Organization can be accepted.
