Associate/Full Professor and O.W. Rollins/Orkin Endowed Chair in Urban Entomology

The Department of Entomology at Purdue University invites applications for the O. Wayne Rollins/Orkin Endowed Chair in Urban Entomology. The successful candidate is expected to establish an internationally recognized, extramurally funded research program in one or more areas of urban entomology such as physiology, genomics, ecology, population modeling, integrated pest management or pesticide resistance management. The successful candidate will provide leadership to a dynamic group of scientists at Purdue engaged in urban entomology and the urban pest management industry more broadly through basic and applied research, teaching and learning and engagement. Insects in urban environments have immense impacts on the health of people and ecosystems. Society has, historically, been limited in our capacity to manage these pests and mitigate their impacts, whilst minimizing unintended consequences. This position is in response to a shift from traditional pest management tools to emerging biotechnological and innovative IPM strategies. Individuals whose work develops or evaluates (or both) technologies at the leading edge of modern arthropod management (e.g., population suppression and replacement, gene drives), detection methods, or computational models are particularly encouraged to apply. Research relevant to genetic models and molecular tools (e.g., CRISPR, RNAi, microbial biotechnology), and synthetic biology is of high priority. We are looking for a leader who encompasses the principles of the One Health Initiative in their research while also providing learning and training in cutting-edge technologies to the next generation of research scientists and stakeholders. The applicant must have a proven track record of extramural funding, scholarly publications, and inter-disciplinary research with a broad spectrum of researchers and clientele groups.

This is a nine-month, tenure track appointment at the associate or full professor level with primary research and secondary teaching responsibilities. The position is also associated with the Center for Urban and Industrial Pest Management.  Expected start date is August 12, 2024.

• Develop a nationally and internationally recognized, externally funded research program that addresses societal grand challenges in urban entomology using emerging biotechnological tools and innovative arthropod management strategies.  
• Work synergistically with faculty from within the department of entomology and across the university to further elevate the University’s research, extension, and teaching & learning profile in urban and structural entomology.
• Interact with a broad spectrum of urban pest management industry and clientele groups
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scientists and visiting scholars
• Contribute to the achievement of instructional outcomes by teaching courses, including online offerings, and developing instructional materials at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

A PhD in entomology, molecular biology, genetics/genomics, ecology, or other life-science related fields.

• Training and experience in the applied ecology of arthropods associated with urban environments including human-made structures and related infrastructure, human health and well-being, or related fields.
• Proven track record of extramural funding, scholarly publications, experience in inter-disciplinary research.
• Experience in instruction at the undergraduate and/or graduate level including the development, delivery and assessment of academic courses.
• Experience engaging with the urban pest management industry or leading industry-sponsored research.
• A background check is required for employment in this position.

Commensurate with experience. Excellent fringe benefit package that includes Fidelity retirement program, medical, life and disability insurance and sabbatical leave. The O. Wayne Rollins/Orkin endowed chair provides recurring funds to the successful candidate for the development of a strong research program in urban entomology.

Applications should include a cover letter addressing the applicant’s qualifications and experience, a statement of research goals and teaching philosophy, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three referees.

All materials must be combined into one PDF and submitted electronically via this site: Associate/Full Professor and O.W. Rollins/Orkin Endowed Chair in Urban Entomology (purdue.edu)

Applications received by February 24, 2024, will be assured of review.  For more information, please see Rollins/Orkin Endowed Chair , or contact the Search Committee Co-Chairs, Matthew Ginzel or Barry Pittendrigh by email at [email protected] or [email protected]   or by telephone at (765) 494-4554.

The Department is an integral part of the College of Agriculture, one of the world’s leading colleges of agricultural, food, life, and natural resource sciences and ranked fifth in the world in the 2023 QS World University Rankings . The College is deeply committed to the three land-grant missions (teaching, research, and extension), to international activities and perspectives that span all missions, and to excellence in all we do. The College of Agriculture and the Department of Entomology are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Our leadership, faculty, staff, and students are engaged in many efforts that are consistent with this commitment. The College has 11 academic departments and includes 309 faculty, 2,889 undergraduate students, and 700 graduate students. The College’s current strategic plan can be accessed at Strategic Plan (purdue.edu) .

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.