Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Field Scout & Research Assistant

W are looking to fill multiple hourly positions to assist with Fruit and Vegetable IPM research and monitoring projects in Durham and at farms across the state, starting May 2022 with possibility to continue through the fall semester.

IPM seeks to integrate a broad range of management techniques to maintain pest populations below acceptable thresholds, thereby avoiding crop loss using the most economical and environmentally sound practices available. Proper identification of pest arthropods (insects and mites), telling “good bugs” from “bad bugs”, and accurate estimations of pest populations is critical to strong IPM programs that help growers to reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides.

No previous experience required, but candidates must have an interest in crop production, pest management, or insect behavior research. This position requires the ability to work independently, work outdoors during variable conditions, and will require a bit of travel - you must be willing to provide your own transportation (which we reimburse @ $0.54/mile).

Duties will include scouting, sampling, and recording insect data in commercial orchards, as well as regular communication with Extension specialists and collaborating commercial farmers. Hours are flexible, 20-40 hr/wk, hourly wages start @$15/h. There will be some opportunity to gain for publication and/or science communication experience.

Contact anna.wallingford@unh.edu for more information.