Job Details

Institution: Virginia Tech
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Type: Full-Time | Restricted Appointment
Category: Entomology; Military
Posted: November 6, 2025
Review Date: November 28, 2025
Salary Range: $53,550 – $65,029 per year
Hours per Week: 40
Overtime Status: Exempt (Not eligible for overtime)

Position Summary

The Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position focused on the cytogenetic and genomic study of the arboviral vector Aedes aegypti.

The goal of this research is to develop next-generation-quality physical genome maps for disease vectors and to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying vector adaptation to diverse environmental conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Characterize chromosomal rearrangements in the Aedes aegypti genome and analyze their global distribution.

• Investigate the molecular basis of genetic divergence related to inversion-associated phenotypes.

• Apply advanced molecular biology and cytogenetic techniques, including Hi-C proximity ligation and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

• Utilize bioinformatics tools to interpret genomic data.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Genetics, Cell Biology, Entomology, or a related field, obtained within the last five years, with at least one year of eligibility remaining.

• Demonstrated experience in molecular biology and genomic analysis.

• Proficiency with modern research techniques such as Hi-C, FISH, advanced cytogenetics, and bioinformatics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in molecular biology and genetics laboratory work.

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to learn and apply new techniques quickly.

• Familiarity with web-based computational tools and data analysis software.

Additional Information

• Employment is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal conviction check.

• The position is restricted and not eligible for overtime pay.

• Contact Dr. Maria Sharakhova (msharakh@vt.edu) at least 10 business days in advance to request disability accommodations.

About Virginia Tech

Guided by its motto Ut Prosim (“That I May Serve”), Virginia Tech is a leading land-grant research university committed to knowledge, discovery, and innovation. The institution serves over 36,000 students across its campuses, including Blacksburg, Roanoke, and the Washington, D.C. area.

With more than $650 million in annual research activity, Virginia Tech fosters a hands-on, transdisciplinary learning environment that prepares scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers worldwide.

The university is also committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Website: www.vt.edu