Research Assistant (Entomology)

Location: Kingsville, Texas; position located at the hirify.global Citrus Center in Weslaco, Texas

Company

hirify.global is a public research university serving South Texas through teaching, research, and community engagement.

What you will do

• Assist with designing, planning, coordinating, and executing laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments.
• Collect, record, compile, and maintain samples, measurements, observations, and experimental datasets.
• Perform data analysis, statistical analysis, and technical evaluations of research results.
• Prepare progress reports, funding proposals, outreach articles, scientific manuscripts, and presentations.
• Operate, maintain, repair, and organize research equipment and laboratory resources.
• Support students, laboratory staff, technical staff, field staff, growers, and research collaborators.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences, biology, ecology, entomology, horticulture, pest management, plant science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Texas driver’s license required.
• Ability to work in laboratories, greenhouses, and outdoor environments exposed to weather conditions, allergens, noise, and heat.
• Ability to travel independently to other or remote locations and move light, medium, or heavy objects with assistance.
• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment, microscopes, Microsoft Office, databases, data presentation, and computer-based tasks.
• Export-control authorization is required before employment begins.

Nice to have

• Three years of related agricultural or research experience and a master’s degree in entomology or pest management.
• Experience with citrus pest or disease identification and management, greenhouse crop production, or citrus management practices.
• Experience with PCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid extraction, and other molecular biology techniques.
• Experience maintaining drip or sprinkler irrigation systems and holding a pesticide applicator license.

Culture & Benefits

• Full-time, 12-month grant-funded staff position; continuation depends on funding and satisfactory performance.
• Supportive university environment focused on teaching, research, service, student success, and professional development.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and flexible spending benefits for eligible employees.
• Retirement options through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas or Optional Retirement Plan.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, birthday leave, and 12–15 paid holidays per year.
• Tuition assistance, book scholarships, wellness programs, counseling, and financial and legal resources.

Hiring process

• Submit an online application with a cover letter, CV or resume, and contact information for three professional references.
• Employment is contingent on credential verification, a criminal history investigation, and completion of required institutional checks.