Arthropod Vector & Cereal Crop Research Technician

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE, USA

USD 22-22 / hour

Posted on May 15, 2026
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
Posting Close Date
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
Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
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. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
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 is 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, schistopolskaya2@unl.edu
Job Category (old) Office/Service
Job Type Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
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