New study: Evaluation of the effectiveness of the California mosquito-borne virus surveillance & response plan, 2009–2018
Local vector control and public health agencies in California use the California Mosquito-Borne Virus Surveillance and Response Plan to monitor and evaluate West Nile virus (WNV) activity and guide responses to reduce the burden of WNV disease. It uses a formula to estimate the risk of human infections based on available environmental surveillance data: the abundance and infection rates in Culex tarsalis and the Culex pipiens complex mosquitoes, the numbers of dead birds, seroconversions in sentinel chickens, and/or ambient air temperatures. A new study led by epidemiologist Dr. Mary Danforth of the California Department of Public Health's Vector-Borne Disease Section in collaboration with other researchers at CDPH and and UC Davis evaluated the effectiveness of the response plan's risk level system. The researchers compared the California response plan's risk assessment to the vector index, a simpler risk estimate based only on mosquito abundance and infection rates that is used by many vector control agencies in the U.S. They found that that higher risk levels based on the response plan were significantly associated with increased reported human disease incidence, particularly when accounting for vector control area and population, and were better predictors of human disease compared to the simpler vector index. Including all potential environmental components created an effective tool to estimate the risk of WNV transmission to humans in California [Full Publication].
West Nile virus (WNV) Activity Recently Detected in California
West Nile virus (WNV) was recently detected in five counties: Contra Costa, Kern, Fresno, Riverside, and Orange. The first detection in Contra Costa County was found in a dead American crow in Brentwood, according to the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District. Four mosquito samples from four counties have tested positive for WNV this year. As mosquito season ramps up, vector control agencies urge the public to take precautions such as applying repellents on exposed skin and eliminating mosquito breeding sites from backyards.
Post-doc: Modeling and Data Synthesis for Vector-Borne Diseases - APPLY BY 6/10!
The Davis Arbovirus Research and Training (DART) Lab at the University of California, Davis seeks a postdoctoral researcher to develop web-based data analysis and visualization tools to support public-health and vector-control decisions in California and other U.S. states. The position will work as part of the Vector-borne Disease Surveillance (VectorSurv) team, along with local, state, and federal partner agencies, to develop data tools for the VectorSurv online data system (https://vectorsurv.org and https://maps.vectorsurv.org). Responsibilities will include (1) designing processes and writing code to integrate diverse data sources, including data on climate, land use, human demographics, and vector surveillance and control, (2) developing predictive models for vector abundance and vector-borne disease risk, (3) working with the programming team to automate models for use in VectorSurv’s web applications, and (4) writing manuscripts describing findings. Learn more here!
Social Media Messaging for Lyme Disease Awareness Month
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month, and the California Department of Public health (CDPH) has developed Lyme disease awareness and prevention social media messages and graphicsfor local agencies to share. For more information about Lyme disease and additional digital resources, please visit theCDPH Lyme disease webpage. For any questions related to outreach materials, please email VBDS@cdph.ca.gov.
American Mosquito Control Association 2023 Research Fund: Request for Pre-Proposals
The American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) Research Fund invites new pre-proposals for research on mosquito control and related topics for funding for calendar year 2023. AMCA is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing leadership, information, and education leading to the enhancement of public health and quality of life through the suppression of mosquitoes. The AMCA Research Fund is devoted to funding research that will lead to new tools and strategies for mosquito surveillance and control and ultimately protecting the public from mosquito-borne disease and discomfort from mosquito bites.
Deadline is Friday, June 24, 2022. Click hereto learn more!
Pilot Testers Wanted: CDC NCEZID Online Tick-borne Illnesses Modules
CDC’s National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID) is seeking health professionals to conduct pilot testing for one of two online trainings which aim to provide science-based information about either (1) tickborne arboviral disease, or (2) anaplasmosis or ehrlichiosis. Both courses will last approximately 45 – 60 minutes. Pilot testers will receive continuing education credits once the training is launched. These trainings cannot be accredited without pilot testing. Your participation helps ensure that continuing education credits are available to health professionals who take these trainings in the future – thank you! Click here to begin.
Support CDC's development of new tick surveillance tools!
The Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is partnering with various national and international universities and public health agencies to develop a robust, protein-based platform for identification and characterization of tick species of medical and veterinary importance, with applications for surveillance and scientific activities in the United States and other countries in the Western Hemisphere. Thanks to all who have provided ticks so far! We are currently seeking additional collaborators to provide recently collected (2018 - present), field-caught specimens of Amblyomma americanum,Amblyomma maculatum, Dermacentor variabilis,Dermacentor andersoni, Dermacentor occidentalis, and Ixodes scapularis. We are requesting samples of all feeding life stages of these species from various US locations for subsequent analysis by MALDI-TOF.
Desired specimens should be preserved in 70-95% ethanol and stored at room temperature since the time of collection. Ideally, at least 10 specimens from each geographical location are requested.
If you have questions or can assist with this project please contact Maria Galletti (myu8@cdc.gov), Joy Hecht (ynw5@cdc.gov) or Chris Paddock (cdp9@cdc.gov) for more information.
Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens Open Community Webinar Series - Next seminar on May 31, 2022 at 8:00 am PDT
This is a joint VEuPathDB and BV-BRC open community webinar series focusing on ticks and the bacterial, viral or eukaryotic pathogens they transmit. Eight webinars will be held on a bi-weekly basis starting on March 8th, 2022. Each webinar will focus one specific data, tools and functionality provided by these NIAID-funded bioinformatic resource centers. Seminars will be at 8am PDT (11am EDT).
International Virtual Seminars on Arbovirus Biology - Next seminar on June 16, 2022 at 8:00 am PDT
Associate Professor Clive McKimmie and the Morris Lab announced their 2nd year of the International Virtual Seminars on Arbovirus Biology in October 2021. Speakers from diverse backgrounds are presenting the best arbovirus science on every Thursday at 8am PDT (11am EDT). To register for a Zoom link, send Clive an email!
Zoonoses & One Health Updates (ZOHU) Calls are one-hour monthly webinars that provide timely education on zoonotic and infectious diseases, One Health, antimicrobial resistance, food safety, vector-borne diseases, recent outbreaks, and related health threats at the animal-human-environment interface.
Free Continuing Educationfor a variety of public health, animal health, and human health professionals. Participants can earn CME, CNE, CEU, CECH, CPH and AAVSB/RACE. Each call is recorded and available online for those unable to attend live sessions.
Contact us if you have questions or suggestions for future topics.
Subscribe to the monthly ZOHU Call News and Updates email newsletter.
NEVBD Vector Biology Boot Camp Lectures Available Online
NEVBD is pausing their in-person component of the Vector Biology Boot Camp for the time being, with the hopes of offering it again in 2023. In lieu of their hands-on program, you can access recorded presentations from the 2021 Virtual Vector Biology Boot Camp available through the Cornell Video on Demand service. Simply complete this user registration form or visit their website to gain access to these recordings.
University of Idaho, Biology of Vector-borne Diseases course
The Institute for Health in the Human Ecosystem hosts the annual Biology of Vector-borne Diseases six-day course. This course provides accessible, condensed training and "knowledge networking" for advanced graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, faculty and professionals to ensure competency in basic biology, current trends and developments, and practical knowledge for U.S. and global vector-borne diseases of plants, animals and humans. We seek to train the next generation of scientists and help working professionals to more effectively address current and emerging threats with holistic approaches and a strong network of collaborators and mentors. The fourth annual Biology of Vector-borne Disease course is scheduled for Monday through Saturday, June 13-18, 2022. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance and invited to register for the course. The course registration fee (USD $1,500) includes housing, meals, course materials and social activities. Registration will be due following acceptance into the course.
Online Course: Biology of Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Other Disease-Causing Arthropods - Next course begins July 6, 2022!
Save 20% during Lyme disease awareness month using discount code LYME20! Interested in learning about the biology & behavior of mosquitoes, ticks, and other arthropods that affect human health? Enroll in a new certificate course from eCornell! In this certificate course, you will explore the fascinating biology, behaviors, and disease-transmission processes of a range of organisms, with special emphasis on the most important groups, including ticks and mosquitoes. You will also learn about specific diseases associated with these vectors that can be passed on to humans. This course is appropriate for those working in healthcare and vector-borne disease control, those who train and supervise outdoor workers, and students of vector biology who may not have access to other courses on this topic.
Online Training in Vector Surveillance - Next course begins August 17, 2022!
Save 20% during Lyme disease awareness month using discount code LYME20!Learn to develop an effective vector surveillance program, collect data, and communicate risk with the Cornell Entomology Department and eCornell in the newest online course Vector-Borne Diseases Surveillance. Take this 3-week instructor-led course with Dr. Laura Harrington and learn best practices to implement vector surveillance, data, and reporting methods.
SECVBD, along with partners in the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, is pleased to provide an online course in mosquito training for pest managers. Participants who complete the 11 modules in the course will learn to identify and understand the mosquitoes of major importance in the urban environment, their life cycles, the general methods of control, personal protective equipment required for safe insecticide application, and the laws and regulations governing mosquito control for the urban pest management industry. CEUs have been approved for FL, SC, AL, CO, and CA at this time. If your state is not listed and you would still like CEUs for this training, please contact Kaci McCoy prior to enrolling at kd.mccoy@ufl.edu.
The CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases has developed an online tick training course, now available! This course is an introduction to ticks, tick-borne diseases, and tick control for employees in the urban pest management industry, public health entomologists, and anyone interested in learning more about ticks. This self-paced course is eligibile for 2 FDACS CEUs and was recently approved for CDPH CEUs (2.25 hours - Category C)! Learn more and enroll for free!
Designed for professionals with less than five years’ experience in pest management, the Certified IPM Technician (CIT) credential demonstrates a foundational skillset and commitment to the IPM principles and practices. Applications for the credential are now being accepted by the ESA Certification Corp [full article].
ESA also offers several other certification programs for professionals:
If you have mosquito (Aedes or Culex) samples to be tested for insecticide resistance, PacVec is providing testing and training services at no charge, and all results will be returned to you. Dr. Anton Cornel's laboratory is leading this activity and organizing various regional training workshops on bottle bioassay testing. If you are interested, please contact us right away at bioassays@pacvec.usto arrange for shipment and timing of the testing.
Current situation with PacVec resistance testing
Due to traveling for training workshops, insecticide resistance testing will only be available for the second half of May 2022 on a first-come first-served basis. Katherine Brisco has moved on to a new position in vector control, but she has offered to continue to answer emails regarding resistance testing. Anyone interested can send an email to the bioassays@pacvec.us email address above, which will include Katherine. Please allow 24-48 hours for a response, as Katherine is providing this service during her free time.
Got ticks? Contact BiTeRS!
The Border Tick and Rickettsia Surveillance (BiTeRS) program of the Pacific Southwest Center of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (PacVec)offers services to enhance surveillance for ticks and tick-borne pathogens of human health concern in California and Arizona. This is made possible through our project leaders at the University of California, Davis and the University of Arizona, and collaborating local and state agencies, including the California Department of Public Health and the Arizona Department of Health Services.
We work with partner organizations to:
Perform surveillance for ticks and tick-borne diseases in their area
Learn about risks of tick-borne diseases in their area by testing ticks for pathogens/diseases
Collect and submit ticks for identification and testing
Rapidly report results of tick identification and pathogen testing to submitting partners
Provide training on ticks and tick-borne disease
We help every step of the way, and shipping and testing are FREE. Collection supplies and protocols are provided, and partners receive all results on ticks they have submitted.
Partner organizations may be:
Government entities (local, tribal, county, or other)
Workplaces with tick exposure
Animal control, humane, or veterinary organizations
Pest control services
Other businesses or groups near the southern border with potential tick exposure
In California, please contact Janet Foley and Laura Backus atcalticks@pacvec.usor call (530) 754-9740. In Arizona, contact Dawn Gouge and Lucy Li at azticks@pacvec.usor call (602) 418-5202. Stay Safe!
CDC website for the Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases
The CDC Division of Vector-Borne Diseases launched a new website highlighting the five Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (CoE). This website is a central location where you can learn more about the mission, key issues, and impact of each of the CoE programs. Visit the CoE website today!
Videos on larval mosquito resistance testing
In collaboration with partners at the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California, PacVec CoE has produced new training videos providing an overview of resistance testing for larval mosquitoes. The videos discuss the rationale for monitoring resistance in mosquitoes, an overview of dose responses and how the dose response changes as resistance to larvicides evolves in a mosquito population, the different types of larval mosquito control agents, the supplies needed for carrying out bioassays, bioassay set-up and making stock solutions of control agents, and interpreting the bioassay results. See the videos and related materials at https://pacvec.us/larval-mosquito-resistance-testing-video/.
NEW - Postdoctoral Scholar: Modeling and Data Synthesis for Vector-Borne Diseases
The Davis Arbovirus Research and Training (DART) Lab at the University of California, Davis seeks a postdoctoral researcher to develop web-based data analysis and visualization tools to support public-health and vector-control decisions in California and other U.S. states. The position will work as part of the Vector-borne Disease Surveillance (VectorSurv) team, along with local, state, and federal partner agencies, to develop data tools for the VectorSurv online data system (https://vectorsurv.org and https://maps.vectorsurv.org). Responsibilities will include (1) designing processes and writing code to integrate diverse data sources, including data on climate, land use, human demographics, and vector surveillance and control, (2) developing predictive models for vector abundance and vector-borne disease risk, (3) working with the programming team to automate models for use in VectorSurv’s web applications, and (4) writing manuscripts describing findings.
Location: Davis, CA Date posted: 04/01/2022 Next review date: 06/10/2022 at 11:59pm PDT Application due: 06/17/2022 at 11:59pm PDT
Heluna Health (dba Public Health Foundation Enterprises) and the Vector-Borne Disease Section (VBDS) of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) are recruiting for Research Assistants in the West Nile virus (WNV) and Dead Bird Surveillance Program. One full-time and one part-time position will support the WNV and Dead Bird Call Center from June through September (season length varies). Workdays are Monday through Friday. The positions are located in Richmond, CA. Birds that contract WNV from infected mosquitoes often perish from the disease, thus reports of dead birds can serve as good indicators of WNV activity. Research Assistants are responsible for answering questions about WNV from public callers and coordinating submission of bird carcasses for WNV testing. Reported and tested bird results assist local vector control agencies in prioritizing their mosquito control and education programs to prevent human disease. The WNV program uses the statewide website http://westnile.ca.gov and email reports to inform and update the public, local agencies, and media.
The MacDonald disease ecology lab at UC Santa Barbara is recruiting a postdoctoral scholar to work on a NSF EEID funded project (DEB-2011147) investigating effects of land use change on vector-borne disease. The postdoc will be based at UC Santa Barbara’s Bren School of Environmental Science and Management and primarily work with Dr. Andrew MacDonald in the Bren School, with opportunities for interaction with faculty in disease ecology, earth systems science and data science across the campus. The postdoc will collaborate and interact with other project PI’s based at Stanford University (Dr. Erin Mordecai – Dept. of Biology, Dr. Lisa Mandle – Natural Capital Project, and Dr. Eric Lambin – Earth System Science), and at Universidad Cayetano Heredia in Lima, Peru (Dr. Willy Lescano). The team has extensive experience in vector-borne disease ecology and epidemiology, as well as land systems science and land use and land cover change.
Location:Santa Barbara, CA Date posted: 04/19/2022 Application due: 09/30/2022 at 11:59 pm PDT
Postdoctoral Researcher - Cooperative Programs for the Advancement of Earth System Science (CPAESS)
The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will advance the goals of the US Global Change Research Program’s (USGCRP) Climate and Health Monitor and Outlook (CHMO) activity, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Research and Development Vision Areas for 2020-2026, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Public Health Framework for the Prevention and Control of Vector-Borne Diseases in Humans. In particular, the researcher will explore opportunities to develop and transition climate/weather and health models and research into new information products and services for vector-borne disease prediction, and early warning prevention.
Postdoctoral Positions, Lyme Disease and Other Tickborne Diseases
The Lin Laboratory at the Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health is recruiting postdoctoral fellows to study host-pathogen interactions of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases in multi-institutional, collaborative projects. They are particularly interested in defining the mechanisms of transmission and persistence by Lyme disease bacteria and other tickborne pathogens in reservoir animals. Prior experience in tackling the host-pathogen interactions using any of the following approaches are welcome: bacterial genetics, host immune responses, phylogenomics, or vector biology. Please submit a CV (3 pages or less); a letter summarizing research interests, experience, and goals (1 page or less); and the names and phone numbers/e-mail of three references to: Dr. Yi-Pin Lin Ph.D., Research Scientist IV, E-mail: Yi-Pin.Lin@health.ny.gov.
The Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division is seeking applications to fill this position. Organize and lead a robust public education program focused on ticks, mosquitoes and spotted lantern flies. Assist Research Scientist with Tick Identification program, including handling of specimens, inquiries from the public, writing reports, and communicating results. Assist mosquito entomologists with vector surveillance and insect resistance monitoring. Assist Research Scientist with laboratory work such as DNA extraction and testing of ticks. Bachelor’s degree in Entomology, Public Health, Science Education, Biology, Ecology or related field. Complete application to County of Monmouth listing title as Biologist Trainee.
The Syed lab at the University of Kentucky is looking for candidates interested in pursuing research in sensory biology of arthropod pests and vectors of disease (ticks and insects). Using neurophysiology and chemical ecology, molecular evolution, biochemistry and circadian biology, and chemo-evolutionary methods, they explore the question, “What do arthropods smell and how?” And they aim to extend this basic understanding to develop novel management strategies. Multiple positions are available for candidates to work at the MS, PhD, or post-doc level.
A postdoctoral position in vector and vector-borne disease ecology and control is available at Texas A&M University in the lab of Gabriel Hamer Lab (https://hamerlab.tamu.edu) in the Department of Entomology. The successful candidate will contribute to research program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture NIFA and the American Kennel Club to evaluate host-targeted ectoparasiticide and/or endectocides for the control of multiple vector species (triatomines, mosquitoes, ticks). Research includes lab insectary and field-based studies involving chicken and dogs with opportunities for domestic and international travel to study sites. The candidate will have opportunities to contribute to other research projects on vector-borne disease and emerging zoonoses funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health. Review of applications will begin immediately and the position start date is flexible. Applications should include a CV, statement of research interests, the names of three references, and most relevant publications. Application materials should be e-mailed as a single PDF to: gabe.hamer@ag.tamu.edu
Location: College Station, TX Date posted: 03/2022
The Norris laboratory, located in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, is seeking a highly motivated individual for a postdoctoral position focusing on mosquito vector genomics and biology. The Norris laboratory is interested in understanding genetic diversity and molecular markers/barcodes that can be used to confirm mosquito identity. This involves development and validation of molecular genetic tools, phylogenetic analysis including spatiotemporal population level studies, and association with vector-borne pathogen incidence. The position is available immediately for one year (with the possibility of renewal for a 2nd year contingent on satisfactory performance). We are looking to fill the position as soon as possible and the position will remain open until filled. Salary is based on the NIH postdoc salary scale. Applicants should submit a CV, statement of research interests, writing/publication sample and contact information of three references. Contact: Dr. Douglas Norris, douglas.norris@jhu.edu.
A postdoctoral position is available in Maria Diuk-Wasser’s lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology (E3B), Columbia University, in collaboration with the Columbia International Research Institute for Climate and Society. The applicant will join research projects newly funded by the Department of Defense, NSF and the CDC, and will become part of the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-borne diseases, a collaborative network including faculty from Cornell, Columbia, Fordham and SUNY Universities, the NY State Department of Health and the Center for Vector Biology and Zoonotic Diseases in CT. The postdoctoral research scientist will harness an extensive network of existing and newly acquired surveillance and control datasets to develop predictive models for the presence and abundance of mosquito and tick vectors and their associated pathogens.
Location: New York City, NY Date posted: 09/15/2021 Application due: Open until filled
NEW -ORISE Postdoctoral Fellowship, Impact on Ticks Harboring Tickborne Pathogens, USDA-ARS
The participant will take a lead role in measuring metabolic activity and energetic consequences of infection in tick vectors. The participant will analyze multiple tick-borne pathogens which cause bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis to map the impact of these on tick biology and physiology. The participant will use techniques in respirometry, and thermal biology, to understand the role of infection on tick physiology and the subsequent impacts on the pathogen-tick-host interactions. Anticipated start date August 1, 2022. Doctoral degree in relevant fields required, with preferred skills in metabolic measurement systems, thermal tolerance physiology, R programming language, and arthropod physiology/ecology.
The term of the positions are anticipated to begin in April and expected to end on or about Sept. 30th. Anyone interested should contact the district at info@fightthebite.net for more information.
Various Regular, Part-Time Seasonal Positions Delta MVCD
Regular, part-time seasonal employee and hourly positions. These are temporary and at-will positions. Assignment ranges from 6 to 9 months depending on availability of work and District needs.
Seeking applicants for several temporary positions available on or after April 15, 2022 and ending on or before September 30, 2022. Applicants do not need to be available for the entire period.
If you would like to be considered for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter to contact@mcbioinc.com. You will receive a confirmation email when your application has been received.
Starting Salary: $16.00 - $22.00 per hour Location: Bakersfield, CA Application due: Open until filled
This is a temporary position that requires candidates to be available to work a minimum of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. The term of the position is anticipated to begin the first week of April and is expected to end on or about September 30th.
Salary: $15.25 - $18.25 per hour Location: Anderson, CA Application due: Open until filled
A field-based position located on the East Coast, US that supports the global research and development of Public Health Products for Valent BioSciences (VBC). Responsible for Field R&D activities in the Americas with special focus in the US (includes mosquito, black fly and select forest health projects), including the identification of new market and product opportunities, planning and conducting field research with VBC experimental materials and products, interpreting and reporting research data, and providing technical expertise to management, sales & marketing. Works directly at the local level with representatives of government agencies, non-government organizations (NGOs), universities, multilateral funding institutions and international donor organizations to establish technical fits for VBC products in health programs and projects.
Anastasia Mosquito Control District (AMCD), St. Augustine, Florida is searching for two Biological Technicians. One position assists the Molecular Entomologist to conduct arbovirus surveillance and insecticide resistance. The other position will assist the Biologists to conduct applied research with preference given to those with a strong background in GIS. These positions require B.S. degree with a M.S. degree preferred in the field of Biology, Entomology, Microbiology, Public Health or Environmental Sciences. The applicator should be at least 18 years of age. The positions expected start date is July 6th, 2022. Interested persons may submit their cover letter, full resume with three references contact information to Mrs. Heather Keating at reception@amcdfl.org. AMCD is an EOE and drug free workplace.
Salary: $45,000 per year with full benefits Location: St. Augustine, FL
Application due: 06/10/2022 at 4:00 PM (1:00 PM PDT) or open until filled
Under the direction of the Supervising Vector Control Biologist and oversight of the Senior Vector Control Biologist, the Vector Control Biologist conducts inspections and investigations, disease surveillance and control, educational outreach and other related work as required, in an assigned geographical area within the Vector Control Services District; provides advice on Vector biology to the public and local code enforcement for property management in but not limited to bed bugs, fleas, flies, lice, mosquitoes, wasps, ticks, mites, rodents and nuisance wildlife; and participates in vector and vector-borne disease surveillance and research.
The Vector Biologist works under the general direction of an reports to the District Manager, conducts and assists with more complex planning and coordination of field surveys; coordinates with lead field staff for effective mosquito control; executes various aspects of the District's technical program, applying knowledge associated with the scientific disciplines of entomology, biology, ecology, epidemiology, and microbiology.
Salary: $31.49 - $38.22 per hour Location: Modesto, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Office of Vector Surveillance and Control (OVSC) is responsible for conducting field and laboratory activities to detect the presence of vector-borne pathogens (Zika virus, West Nile virus, Lyme disease) in mosquitoes and ticks, and prevent their transmission to humans and other hosts. Duties include designing and implementing field studies for entomological/ epidemiological research and conduct arthropod-borne disease investigations; designing and executing research studies on the prevention and control of arthropod-borne diseases; and conducting ecological and epidemiological analyses of mosquito infections of vector-borne diseases and make recommendations for their control. among others. A master's degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in an appropriate field of physical, biological or environmental science or in public health minimum qualification. Apply online with a cover letter to https://a127-jobs.nyc.gov/. In the Job ID search bar, enter: job ID number # 526398. Posting open until July 23, 2022.
The McCormick Biological Inc. is seeking qualified candidates for this position. Senior Biologists are responsible for estimate/proposal preparation, biological survey design, directing/leading staff on survey and report tasks, coordinating work schedules, and communication with Principal Biologist, agency personnel, and client representatives to complete project objectives. Senior Biologists participate with the Principal Biologist and Director of Operations in planning monthly staff meetings, staff training, and business strategy development. As a Senior Biologist at MBI, it is expected that you independently complete biological consulting tasks with limited coordination with the Principal Biologist. If you would like to be considered for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter to contact@mcbioinc.com. You will receive a confirmation email when your application has been received.
Starting Salary: Depends on experience Location: Bakersfield, CA Application due: Open until filled
The McCormick Biological Inc. is seeking qualified candidates for this position. Associate biologists will work alongside other senior and staff biologists to manage projects, schedule, communicate with clients and coordinate teams to conduct surveys for the detection of state- and federal-listed species. In addition, associate biologists prepare written evaluations of biological resources, identify plants and wildlife observed during surveys, evaluate potential for species occurrence, and monitor construction in compliance with biological/environmental avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures. If you would like to be considered for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter to contact@mcbioinc.com. You will receive a confirmation email when your application has been received.
Starting Salary: $25.00 - $35.00 an hour, depends on experience Location: Bakersfield, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Kern Mosquito and Vector Control District is seeking to fill this position. Under the direction and supervision of the District Manager, Superintendent, and/or Assistant Superintendent, this position has a full-scale leadership of the Surveillance and Research Program. The Scientific Program Director (SPD) oversees laboratory operations to ensure accurate and consistent surveillance and testing procedures. The incumbent trains, mentors, and evaluates laboratory staff to ensure quality control, safety, and record maintenance. SPD organizes and conducts high standard research projects independently or in collaboration with external institutions, and prepares reports. Similarly, SPD provides biological and entomological services and covers the illustrative tasks of the Entomologist/Lab Technician if and when the position is not filled.
Salary: $78,902.00 - $95,326.00 per year Location: Bakersfield, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under the direction of the General Manager and Assistant Manager, this position manages, supervises and coordinates the activities and operations of the administration department including financial and human resources functions. Incumbent provides highly responsible and complex administrative support to the General Manager.
Location: Elk Grove, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Kings Mosquito Abatement District is accepting applications for the Area Supervisor position. Under direction, the Area Supervisor is to perform inspections and control operations in an assigned area or specialized function of a mosquito abatement agency and to do related work as required. Some knowledge of mechanics, general problems and techniques of vector control, including the use of pesticides and safety precautions; ability to work independently and responsibly; to organize and conduct assigned vector abatement field operations, to make accurate observations and to keep detailed records; ability to work cooperatively and effectively with other employees and the public; and to evaluate situations accurately, and to maintain and appreciate safety precautions. Applications and resumes may be sent via email to office@kingsmosqutio.net, or by mail at the following address: 13960 Power Way, Hanford, Ca 93230. Please contact the District for additional details at (559) 584-3326.
This position is primarily responsible for directing the mosquito surveillance, testing, and education program for the purpose of reducing mosquito-borne disease in The Woodlands. Additional duties include assisting with the development, marketing and implementation of environmental education programs and events for the Woodlands residents, schools, and community groups. The position is a local resource for inquiries on sustainability topics including recycling, resource conservation, sustainable landscaping and gardening, concerns and preserving the natural environment.
The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District is seeking to fill this full-time position. Under general supervision, performs a variety of responsible paraprofessional, technical, and administrative human resources support functions; assists with recruitment, testing, and selection of staff, administration of employee salary, insurance, and benefits transactions, workers’ compensation claims administration, coordination of employee training programs, and new hire onboarding; prepares, reviews, distributes, and maintains human resources information systems and personnel records and files; assists in completing various human resources studies and reports; provides generalist human resources support for the Director of Human Resources and other department staff; and performs related work as required.
Salary: $27.08 - $32.91 per hour Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA Application due: Open until filled
Under the direction of the Laboratory Director and direct supervision of the Vector Ecologist or Biologist, individual is responsible for performing a variety of laboratory and field services within the vector-borne disease surveillance programs of the Laboratory department for the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
Salary: $5,955.00 - $6,566.00 per month Location: Concord, CA Application due: Open until filled
Under the general direction of the Assistant Manager and direct supervision of the Field or Fisheries Supervisor, this position performs inspections and control operations or other related or specialized services in an assigned crew within the Control Operations department for the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District.
Salary: starting at $4,162.00 per month Location: Elk Grove, CA Application due: Continuous
Under the direction of the Laboratory Director and direct supervision of the Vector Ecologist or Biologist, individual is responsible for performing a variety of laboratory and field services within the vector-borne disease surveillance programs of the Laboratory department for the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
Location: Elk Grove, CA Application due: Open until filled
Assistant Professor (Mosquito Biologist/Ecologist)
The Department of Entomology at the University of California invites applicants for an Assistant Professor to develop an innovative, field-oriented, research program on the population dynamics and community ecology of mosquitoes. This is a 9 month, tenure-track position. The position will be available July 1, 2022. Research should focus on mosquito population biology and ecology, and include studying aquatic habitats in urban, agricultural and natural areas. Research may also include studies on the epidemiology of mosquito-transmitted pathogens of humans. The Department seeks an individual who will complement existing expertise in medical entomology and vector biology, and who can work collaboratively with faculty across academic departments, colleges and UC campuses. Collaborative research efforts with vector control districts, state and county public health agencies or international health agencies are also strongly encouraged. Teaching responsibilities may include participation in aquatic entomology, vector biology and ecology, and medical/veterinary entomology courses, as well as supervision of graduate students.
Location: Riverside, CA Date posted: 03/25/2022 Application due: 06/30/2022 at 11:59 PM PDT
Multiple Tenure-Track Positions (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor)
The Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is recruiting for multiple full-time tenure-track positions in the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor (open rank). All applications should be sent electronically to the attention of Dr. Audrey Pettifor at the following website. Applicants should provide a cover letter describing their qualifications, a curriculum vitae, contact information for at least three professional references and three in press or published manuscripts. Please include a separate diversity statement which outlines examples of your past commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as how you believe you might contribute to an inclusive climate at Gillings. Proposed start date is 08/01/2022.
The Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences (BSBS) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Medicine, seeks outstanding applicants for two tenure-earning assistant professor of medicine or tenured associate professor of medicine positions with a research focus on immunology and pathogen-host interactions relevant to human health. Applicants in the fields of immune responses to microbial infections and molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis are particularly encouraged to apply. In addition to developing or maintaining a well-funded research program, candidates are expected to have active participation in undergraduate and graduate education. The UCF College of Medicine provides faculty with highly competitive state-supported salaries, generous startup packages and laboratory space. The research facilities are state-of-the-art and include BSL3 laboratory space, transgenic animal facilities and excellent core facilities.
Location: Orlando, FL Date posted: 01/14/2022 Application review begins: 03/15/2022 Application due: Open until filled
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is seeking a Director for the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center (SPAREC). This is a tenure-track position at the Associate or Professor rank with tenure home in the Department of Entomology . The Director is expected to maintain a highly productive research and Extension program in the area of entomology with relevance to the vision and mission of SPAREC.
Location: Central Virginia Date posted: 10/21/2021 Application review begins: 01/24/2022 Application due: Open until filled
This is a tenure-track appointment as an Assistant Professor of Entomology with a specialization in global public health. This 9-month appointment has job expectations in Research, Teaching and Service with an anticipated 60%, 30% and 10% distribution of effort, respectively. Research in the field of Medical Entomology with a focus on Global Public Health. The incumbent faculty member will have primary responsibility for developing a nationally recognized, extramurally funded research program focused on issues of national and global One Health importance in vector-borne disease with an emphasis on new discoveries and methodologies that have the potential for significant positive impacts on the scientific discipline and/or have economic/public health value to end-user groups. Candidate research programs will be expected to extend directly to the relevant diseaseendemic countries/regions. In addition to establishing such strong international collaborations, the incumbent will have the opportunity to develop strong ties with other faculty at Texas A&M University (TAMU) and the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) both within and outside the Department of Entomology.
Location: College Station, TX Date posted: 10/20/2021 Application review begins: 01/14/2022 Application due: Open until filled Anticipated start date: 08/01/2022
The University of Idaho seeks to build on our strength in mathematical, statistical, and computational modeling by adding up to six new tenure-track faculty. We will hire outstanding researchers who use diverse modeling skills to address public health challenges along the continuum from pathogen dynamics at the human-wildlife interface, to emerging disease prediction and prevention, to rural health disparities. Hires will be at the assistant or associate professor level, and research pairs or teams are encouraged to apply. This is a cross-institutional initiative with departmental appointments based on the specialty areas of the successful candidates. Although all types of modeling and data science will be considered, we are particularly interested in individuals with expertise in epidemiology, artificial intelligence / machine learning, molecular modeling, data analytics and visualization, mathematical and statistical modeling, and geospatial modeling.
Location: Moscow, ID Date posted: 09/10/2021 Application due: Open until filled, but applications received on or before 10/11/2021 will receive first consideration
The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) seeks to fill a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level in infectious diseases. The anticipated starting date is fall 2022. Applicants should possess the ability to develop an extramurally funded research program in infectious diseases and teach and mentor at both the undergraduate and graduate levels (M.S. and Ph.D.). Research resources include state-of-the-art molecular and high-throughput screening core facilities, as well as a BSL-3 laboratory and ABSL3 animal facilities. The current areas of expertise within the department and university include virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, vector borne infections, vaccine development and drug discovery. Our goal is to foster and support research on any area of infectious diseases including the vector/tick-borne diseases of public health importance in the U.S.-Mexico border area. However, we encourage outstanding candidates in all areas of infectious diseases to apply. The successful candidate will have access to our state-of-the-art Border Biomedical Research Center Core Facilities located in the building.
Location: El Paso, TX Date posted: 09/08/2021 Application due: Open until filled
NEW - Danforth ME, Snyder RE, Lonstrup ETN, Barker CM, Kramer VL. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the California mosquito-borne virus surveillance & response plan, 2009-2018. PLOS Negl Trop Dis. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0010375
Billeter SA. A review of Bartonella infections in California—Implications for public and veterinary health. Journal of Medical Entomology. 2022. https://doi.org/1.1093/jme/tjac056
López-Pérez AM, López-Fernández O, Backus L, Somerville S, Zarza H, Foley J et al. Spatial distribution patterns of tick community structure in sympatric jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor) from three ecoregions in Mexico. Med Vet Entomol. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1111/mve.12575
Paddock CD, Swei A, Trent E, Zhong J, Sambado S, Foley J et al. Detection and isolation of Rickettsia tillamookensis (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) from Ixodes pacificus (Acari: Ixodidae) from multiple regions of California. Journal of Medical Entomology. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjac038
Joy T, Arnbrister J, Brophy M, Garcia VM, Walker K, Ernst K et al. Assessing near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for evaluation of Aedes aegypti population age structure. Insects. 2022. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13040360
Brophy M, Riehle MA, Mastrud N, Ravenscraft A, Adamson JE, Walker KR. Genetic variation in Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. ticks across Arizona. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19074223
Holcomb KM, Nguyen C, Foy BD, Ahn M, Cramer K, Barker CM et al. Effects of ivermectin treatment of backyard chickens on mosquito dynamics and West Nile virus transmission. PLOS Negl Trop Dis. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0010260
Beckman D, Seelke A MH, Bennett J, Dougherty P, Van Rompay K, Coffey L et al. Neuroanatomical abnormalities in a nonhuman primate model of congenital Zika virus infection. eLife. 2022.https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.64734
Ring K, Couper LI, Sapiro AL, Yarza F, Chou S, Swei A et al. Host blood meal identity modifies vector gene expression and competency. Molecular Ecology. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1111/mec.16413
Lilly M, Amaya-Mejia W, Pavan L, Peng C, Crews A, Swei A et al. Local Community Composition Drives Avian Borrelia burgdorferi Infection and Tick Infestation. Veterinary Sciences. 2022. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9020055
Witmer FDW , Nawrocki TW, Hahn M. Modeling geographic uncertainty in current and future habitat for potential populations of Ixodes pacificus (Acari: Ixodidae) in Alaska. Journal of Medical Entomology. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjac001
Interested in viewing more articles from PacVec researchers?
Local vector control and public health agencies in California use the California Mosquito-Borne Virus Surveillance and Response Plan to monitor and evaluate West Nile virus (WNV) activity and guide responses to reduce the burden of WNV disease. It uses a formula to estimate the risk of human infections based on available environmental surveillance data: the abundance and infection rates in 
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month, and the California Department of Public health (CDPH) has developed Lyme disease awareness and prevention 
The American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) Research Fund invites new pre-proposals for research on mosquito control and related topics for funding for calendar year 2023. AMCA is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing leadership, information, and education leading to the enhancement of public health and quality of life through the suppression of mosquitoes. The AMCA Research Fund is devoted to funding research that will lead to new tools and strategies for mosquito surveillance and control and ultimately protecting the public from mosquito-borne disease and discomfort from mosquito bites.
