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Insect Research Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Arboriculture Internship

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

... Research Laboratories To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on ... Insect and disease identification and management * Soil sampling * Record-keeping, report writing ...

Arboriculture Internship

Lexington, KY

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

... Research Laboratories To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on ... Insect and disease identification and management * Soil sampling * Record-keeping, report writing ...

Insect Research information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$27

$56

How much do insect research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for insect research in Kentucky is $27.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.27 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an insect research?

An Insect Research job involves studying insects' behavior, genetics, ecology, and interactions with the environment. Researchers may work in agriculture, conservation, pest control, or medical fields to understand insect roles and impacts. Duties often include fieldwork, data collection, lab experiments, and publishing findings. This research helps in biodiversity conservation, pest management, and disease prevention.

What are typical daily tasks for someone working in insect research?

Insect researchers commonly split their time between fieldwork, where they collect insect specimens or observe behaviors in natural habitats, and laboratory work, which involves analyzing samples, conducting experiments, and recording data. They may use specialized equipment such as microscopes, DNA sequencers, and data analysis software, as well as collaborate with other researchers or support staff. Regular responsibilities also include reviewing scientific literature, preparing reports, and presenting research findings to stakeholders or at conferences. This blend of field, lab, and analytical activities offers variety and hands-on engagement, making the role ideal for those who enjoy both outdoor and scientific work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in insect research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Insect Research, you generally need a degree in entomology, biology, or a related field, along with strong skills in scientific research, data analysis, and fieldwork. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, microscopy, genetic analysis tools, and data management systems is often required, and additional certifications in pest management or research methodologies may be advantageous. Attention to detail, critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration are valuable soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are essential to conduct rigorous research, accurately interpret results, and share findings effectively within scientific and practical applications.

Are insect research jobs in demand?

Insect research jobs are in demand within fields such as agriculture, environmental science, and pest management, especially as interest in sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation grows. These roles often require specialized knowledge in entomology, laboratory skills, and sometimes fieldwork, with employment opportunities available in academic, government, and private sectors.

How to become an insect researcher?

To become an insect researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in entomology, biology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, fieldwork, and developing skills in specimen collection and identification are important, along with familiarity with research tools and methods used in entomology.

What are popular job titles related to Insect Research jobs in Kentucky?

For Insect Research jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Insect Research job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,801 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Temporary Research Technician Requisition Number DU14924 Department Name 81080:ENTOMOLOGY Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $15.00-$17.00 Type of Position Temporary Position Time Status Full-Time Required Education
HS Diploma
Required Related Experience
N/A
Required License/Registration/Certification
N/A
Physical Requirements
Carry objects of 50 lbs. or less. Comfortable working in a lab environment
Shift
Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm (37.5 hours/week)
Job Summary
This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics, analytical chemistry, insect physiology and behavior, field surveillance, and Extension activities while contributing to Kentucky's preparedness for the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax). Responsibilities include deploying and servicing field traps; collecting, sorting, preserving, and documenting specimens; identifying screwworms and other blow flies; and assisting with DNA extraction and CRISPR-Cas12-based diagnostics. The individual will also participate in volatile collection, GC-MS and GC-EAD analyses, behavioral assays, and insect colony maintenance, while working closely with researchers, diagnostic laboratories, livestock producers, veterinarians, and Extension partners.
We encourage early submissions; interviews and selection may occur prior to the closing date 
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience Deadline to Apply 09/04/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865