Bed Bug Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Machtinger Lab in the Department of Entomology in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State seeks a highly motivatedPostdoctoral Scholar to support an interdisciplinary research and Extension program focused on bed bug management and biosecurity in poultry production systems. This position will contribute to applied research, stakeholder education, and Extension programming aimed at reducing the movement and impact of bed bugs within commercial poultry facilities. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, Extension educators, poultry producers, and industry stakeholders to translate research findings into practical management strategies and educational resources.

Responsibilities

ThePostdoctoral Scholar will contribute to both applied research and Extension programming activities, including:

• Develop and deliver educational programming and outreach materials related to bed bug management, integrated pest management (IPM), and poultry biosecurity.

• Translate applied research findings into practical recommendations, training modules, fact sheets, videos, and producer-focused educational resources.

• Coordinate and support field-based research activities conducted in commercial poultry facilities.

• Assist with data collection, management, analysis, and interpretation associated with ongoing research projects.

• Conduct workshops, trainings, and on-farm educational events for poultry producers, managers, and workers.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including researchers, Extension personnel, veterinarians, and industry partners.

• Evaluate educational program effectiveness through surveys, participation metrics, and stakeholder feedback.

• Contribute to preparation of reports, presentations, manuscripts, and future grant proposals.

• Support bilingual and culturally responsive outreach efforts where appropriate.

The position emphasizes strong integration between research and Extension, with a focus on stakeholder engagement and adoption of evidence-based management practices.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in entomology, veterinary entomology, animal science, public health, Extension education, poultry science, or a related discipline.

• Experience conducting applied or field-based research.

• Strong written and oral communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.

• Willingness to travel within Pennsylvania for fieldwork and Extension programming.

• Ability to work independently while managing multiple project responsibilities.

The successful candidate must have completed all degree requirements by the appointment date.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with bugs and other pests of veterinary important.

• Experience with Extension, outreach, or non-formal education programming.

• Experience working with agricultural producers, animal production systems, or pest management programs.

• Knowledge of integrated pest management, urban entomology, veterinary entomology, or poultry production systems.

• Experience developing educational materials or delivering trainings/workshops.

• Spanish language proficiency is desirable but not required.

Appointment Details

This is a limited-term, grant-fundedpostdoctoral appointment with excellent opportunities for professional development in applied research, Extension programming, stakeholder engagement, and science communication. The position will be based at Penn State University Park with travel to poultry facilities and stakeholder events as needed.

Environment

The successful candidate will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary team focused on addressing emerging challenges in veterinary and medical entomology through applied research and Extension. The program emphasizes practical problem-solving, stakeholder partnerships, and translation of science into actionable management strategies for the poultry industry.

Application Materials

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter describing qualifications and interest in the position

• Curriculum vitae

• Contact information for three professional references

• Relevant publications or outreach examples (optional)

System limitations allow for a total of 5 documents (5mb per document) as part of your application. Please combine materials to meet the 5-document limit.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.