The Utah State University Chemistry and Biochemistry Department and the Pollinating Insects Research Unit (PIRU) of the USDA Agricultural Research Service are searching for a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in toxicology and entomology.  This is a full-time, temporary appointment of 2 years, based at Utah State University. The postdoc will be working directly with Drs. Kimberly Hageman (USU) and Kelsey Graham (USDA ARS) in Logan, UT, in addition to collaborators at Washington State University (Dr. Douglas Walsh) in Prosser, WA.

The aim of this project is to develop standardized methods for conducting quantitative pesticide risk assessments that include the diverse exposure pathways encountered by solitary bees. This includes conducting experiments to determine lethal and sub-lethal toxicity endpoints for two solitary bee species – the alfalfa leafcutting bee (Megachile rotundata) and the alkali bee (Nomia melanderi). Additionally, the postdoc will lead semi-field studies to evaluate higher-tier risk assessments for pesticide exposures for these bees and determine how different routes of pesticide exposure impact bee health. The research is expected to provide critical information on how toxicity and exposures differ between solitary bees and the western honey bee (Apis mellifera), which is the model system for this type of work in the US. The candidate should have experiences related to toxicology and working with insects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry, Entomology, Biological Sciences, or related disciplines appropriate to this position. 

Along with the online application, please attach:

1. Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
2. Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application
3. Names and contact information for 3 Professional References to be typed at the beginning at your application  

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes.  The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

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Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

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Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.

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The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

*updated 12/2025

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.

In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:

U.S. Department of Education

Denver Regional Office

303-844-5695| OCR.Denver@ed.gov

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

800-421-3481 |  OCR@ed.gov

*updated 10/2025