Ph.D. Position in Horticultural Entomology
A Ph.D. position is available in Dr. Xavier Martini’s Laboratory of Horticultural Entomology in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida to start in the Spring semester of 2026. The position will be at the North Florida Research and Education Center (NFREC) in Quincy, FL.
Description: This is a USDA-OREI-funded position. The primary goal of the research project is to develop organic management of whiteflies and their associated viruses in cucurbits with nano clay and essential oils. We aim to create a nano clay matrix that will disrupt the behavior of the whitefly at four different sensory levels: by contact through the irritancy of the clay, through odor with the addition of a true odor repellent, through visual cues by the addition of pigments, and finally through gustation through the addition of mineral oil and terpenes with antifeedant properties. The research will include conducting behavioral tests on whiteflies (olfactometer, video tracking), GC-MS analyses (composition of essential oils, release of essential oils by nano clays), and conducting field trial assays.
Qualifications: An MS degree (foreign equivalent acceptable) in entomology or a closely related discipline is required. Candidates must commit to IFAS’ core values of excellence, diversity, global involvement, and accountability.
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience in one of the following disciplines: Integrated pest management, insect behavior, chemical ecology.
- Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal relationships, interdisciplinary national/international collaboration, and procurement of extramural funding.
- Previous experience with extension and outreach activities.
Interested applicants should send by August 1, 2025, a single PDF to Dr. Xavier Martini at xmartini@ufl.edu containing: 1) a one-page letter of intent, 2) a current CV including contact information for three professional references, and 3) Full transcripts, GRE, and TOEFL scores (if applicable).