Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral Researcher Position Type: Other Academic Department: LSUAG PL1 - SPESS - Plant Environmental and Soil Sciences (Christopher Ray Mudge) Work Location: 0108 Madison B. Sturgis (New Agronomy Bldg) Pay Grade: Other Academic Job Description: A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available within the Aquatic Plant Management Laboratory at Louisiana State University with a specific focus on developing new chemical, biological, and integrated pest management (IPM) control techniques for invasive aquatic plant species. This multidisciplinary project entails coordination of laboratory, mesocosm, and field research throughout Louisiana. Duties will include the design, establishment, maintenance, evaluation, collection, writing, and publication of data from small- and field-scale research studies. The applicant should also be able to coordinate, train, and supervise student and visiting scholars. In-state travel will be an important component of this position. The successful candidate will also be responsible for the coordination of rearing salvinia weevils (Cyrtobagous salviniae) in outdoor mesocosms located at the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Facility in Baton Rouge, LA. The candidate would be responsible for the inoculation of giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) into the mesocosms, fertilization of plants, pest removal, inoculation of weevils, monitoring of mesocosm conditions, and harvest of insects/plant for field release. Regular maintenance of mesocosms will include pesticide applications, collection of water quality data, and weevil density (adults and larvae counts). The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with the LA Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to coordinate the harvest of weevil-infested salvinia for distribution throughout the state. Physical activities related to this job may include but not limited to periodic lifting of 40 lbs., mowing perimeter of mesocosm facility, using herbicide application equipment, operating trucks and boats, operation/maintenance of machinery, and harvesting of plant material from mesocosms. The successful candidate will also prepare reports for sponsors and will work closely with LDWF, Federal, and industry sponsors and collaborators. Qualification Requirements: The candidate must have a Ph.D. in weed science, entomology, natural resource management, or related field. Course work or experience in Agronomy, Horticulture, Weed Science, Entomology, Integrated Pest Management, and Wildlife and Fisheries is preferred. Experience with the management of aquatic weeds using herbicides and biocontrol is desired. Familiarity with the handling of pesticides, knowledge of weed management, insect rearing, boat operation, and computer applications are desirable. The candidate must be able to collaborate with members of the laboratory and multidisciplinary teams and have strong written and oral communication skills. Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment. Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process. Application Deadline: August 4, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is identified. Application Procedure: Apply online at (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and three letters of reference. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the reference letters online, they may be sent directly to: Dr. Christopher Mudge

LSU SPESS