Arthropod Vector & Cereal Crop Research Technician

Arthropod Vector & Cereal Crop Research Technician

Working Title - Arthropod Vector & Cereal Crop Research Technician

Department - Agronomy & Horticulture-0827

Requisition Number - S_260373

Posting Open Date - 05/15/2026

Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) - 06/01/2026

Open Until Filled - Yes

Description of Work - The Department of Agronomy and Horticulture leads the future of plant, soil, and landscape systems through innovation, technology, and education. We partner with stakeholders to advance resilient landscapes and food production that enhance quality of life in Nebraska and beyond. As an Arthropod Vector & Cereal Crop Research Technician, you will:

• Perform molecular and serological assays for virus detection.
• Ensure lab safety and operations for lab members.
• Coordinate data collection on all field screening for virus and vector resistance.
• Maintain lab inventory, organize and buy lab chemicals & reagents.
• Maintain seed stocks and determine seed availability.
• Prepare reports, perform data analysis and support publication of research.

Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician III.

About Us At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn't just a workplace; it's a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:

• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
• Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
• Retirement plans with university match
• A workplace culture that values your time outside of work

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

Minimum Required Qualifications - Bachelor's degree plus one year experience working in virus detection techniques (i.e. molecular and serological). Additional relevant experience may substitute for education requirement on a year-for-year basis. Computer proficiency, including basic data collection, and report writing. Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment and make sound operational decisions. Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment. Ability to lift up to 20 lbs and work in both laboratory and field environments. Willingness to travel for 2–3 days as needed for field research activities. Ability to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification within six months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications - The following qualifications are preferred, but not required: Bachelor's degree in entomology, agronomy, horticulture or related field. Experience working with wheat curl mite and cereal aphids. Experience working with cereal viruses (wheat streak mosaic disease and Yellow dwarf disease). Understanding on laboratory setup and management. Understanding on staff supervision and team leadership.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required - Yes

Physical Required - Yes

Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. - No

Criminal History Background Check Required - Yes

Posted Salary - $22.00/hr minimum

How to Apply - Click on "Apply for this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that on file. You will be required to attach your resume, cover letter and list of references as three (3) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.

For questions or accommodations related to this position contact - Svetlana Chistopolskaya, View email address on click.appcast.io

Job Category (old) - Office/Service

Job Type - Full-Time

Work Location (City, State) - Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? - Yes

If Temporary, indicate end date

Planned Hire Date:

Appointment End Date

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Please describe your experience working in virus detection techniques (i.e. molecular and serological). Include number of years of experience. (Open Ended Question)
2. * Do you have experience working with any of the following? Mark all that apply.

• Wheat curl mite
• Cereal aphids
• Cereal viruses such as wheat streak mosaic disease or yellow dwarf disease

Required Documents

Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. List of References

Optional Documents