The Department of Entomology at the University of Kentucky seeks a broadly trained entomologist who will address the needs of stakeholders in the specialty crop industry through integrated management of arthropod pests. This combined Extension and research position will be located at the University of Kentucky’s main campus in Lexington, KY. Areas of Extension and applied research emphasis could include Integrated pest management of fruits and vegetables, addressing emerging entomological needs in specialty crops, contributing to pesticide applicator training, and/or facilitating pest management strategies for organic and other alternative agricultural industries. Kentucky hosts a vibrant community of small to mid-sized specialty crop producers with needs in the areas of diversified fruit and vegetable operations.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with members from the Departments of Entomology, Horticulture, Plant & Soil Sciences, and Plant Pathology as well as the Center for Crop Diversification to serve Kentucky’s specialty crop industries. In addition, partnering with Extension agents throughout the state of Kentucky to provide educational opportunities in specialty crop production is expected. This individual will develop a nationally and internationally recognized program and actively pursue external funding opportunities. The selected candidate is expected to work closely with stakeholders in their areas of expertise to ensure their program aligns with stakeholder needs. This faculty member will also have the opportunity to represent Kentucky as part of the IR-4 Project through the USDA.
The successful candidate is expected to participate in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to the graduate education program in the Entomology Department. The selected candidate is expected to publish their work in peer-reviewed journals and to produce Extension materials which could include fact sheets, infographics, videos, podcasts, and social media posts.
Applicants should submit the following materials:
1. Cover letter, explaining your interest in the position and why your background and expertise qualify you for this position (2 page maximum)
2. CV
3. Extension Statement, explaining your Extension philosophy, background/experience in Extension, and vision for an integrated Extension program (3 page maximum,
uploaded under Special Request 1)
4. Research Statement, explaining your research philosophy, background/experience in applied research, and vision for an applied research program that addresses stakeholder needs (3 page maximum,
uploaded under Special Request 2)
5. Five (5, maximum) selected examples of Extension and research publications (
uploaded under Special Request 3)
6. Four (4) references who may be contacted for letters of recommendation from people who can address in their professional judgement your performance in advancing your scholarly field, significance of the venues in which you have been published, the grants you have been involved
with, instructional accomplishments, and service performed. Please also indicate your reference relationship
Review of applicants will begin April 1, 2025, and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Contact: Drs. Zach DeVries (zdevries@uky.edu) and Jonathan Larson (jonathan.larson@uky.edu), Search Committee Co-Chairs
