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NEVBD Announcements

3 June 2022
NEVBD Program Updates
Vector-Borne Disease News
Employment Opportunities
Training Opportunities

NEVBD Program News & Updates

Community Programming

Final Class of MS Entomology: Vector-Borne Disease Biology Students Graduate from NEVBD-Supported Program

NEVBD developed an innovative Master of Science training program, combining graduate training in vector biology, and public health, through the Cornell University Department of Entomology. Our program has supported 10 fully-funded graduates since 2018, who have completed applied field work with public partners across the northeast region. Our final class of this training program graduated last week on Saturday May 28, 2022. A huge congratulations to our graduates!

NEVBD Digest Special Issue 11 - A Recap of our 5 Years as a Regional Center of Excellence in Vector-Borne Disease

NEVBD published our final Digest Newsletter of our current funding period: "Looking Back Over the Past Five Years: A Celebration of Achievements & Partnerships Across the Northeast in Vector-Borne Disease Prevention". In this newsletter, we share key highlights across our journey as a Center of Excellence, including the valuable partnerships we have formed with our regional public health and vector control partners and the inspiring young professionals who have gone through our training programs. Join us in celebrating the past five years in this issue!

2022 Pesticide Resistance Monitoring Program - Submission System

We are pleased to announce that the NEVBD Pesticide Resistance Monitoring Program is actively accepting submissions for resistance testing. You can order your submission kits now and throughout the summer. To receive a submission kit please send order forms to pesticide@cornell.edu

Research & Collaborations

Collaboration Opportunities

2022 CDC West Nile Virus Forecasting Challenge

Announcing the 2022 CDC West Nile virus (WNV) Forecasting Challenge is open for participation. This is an open forecasting challenge to predict the total number of WNV neuroinvasive disease cases in U.S. counties during the 2022 calendar year. Next optional forecasts due June 30 and July 31, 2022. Email vbd-predict@cdc.org for more information and to register a modeling team. Learn more.

AMCA 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. 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 for pre-proposals is Friday June 24, 2022

You can access publications from NEVBD-supported applied research by visiting the Research and Publications pages on our website!

Vector-Borne Disease in the News

CDC Launches Webinar "Dengvaxia: What Healthcare Professionals Need to Know"

CDC launched a 30-minute webinar providing an overview of the Dengvaxia dengue virus vaccine for healthcare providers. The vaccine was approved and recommended for use in children age 9 to 16 who have laboratory-confirmed evidence of previous dengue infection and live in areas of the US where dengue is common. 

Snow-Covered Tires Help Invasive Mosquitoes Survive Cold Winters

Researchers from the University of Wisconsin - Madison tested if insulated car tire microhabitats could increase survival of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) in the northern Midwest of the U.S. and if snow cover further increased survival by providing additional insulation. The investigators found that more eggs survived in tires with higher internal temperatures, and higher internal tire temperatures were found at more northerly sites. This was due to the insulating effects of the deeper snow cover present at higher latitudes. These findings support the hypothesis that Asian tiger mosquitoes can overwinter north of their isotherm limit through the use of insulated microhabitats. Read the full report in Environmental Entomology.

First Detection of Bourbon Virus in Asian Longhorned Tick

The Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) is an invasive tick species present in the USA since at least 2017, and it has been detected in one-third of Virginia counties. A study led by researchers at Virginia Tech University examined H. longicornis collected within Virginia (from ten counties) for Bourbon and Heartland viruses using PCR methods. All ticks tested negative for Heartland virus. Bourbon virus RNA was detected in one nymphal stage H. longicornis from Patrick County, one nymph from Staunton City, and one larval pool and one adult female tick from Wythe County, Virginia. Through these results, it can be concluded that H. longicornis can carry Bourbon virus. Read the full results in Pathogens.
The TickApp
Join our efforts to make your neighborhood a safer place for you, your family, and your pets! Download the TickApp today
Prevent Tick Bites This Spring
Ticks are most active from April to September. Visit the CDC to learn how to prevent tick bites.
Prevent Mosquito Bites & Keep Your Home Mosquito Free
Mosquito activity is increasing as the weather warms. Visit the CDC to learn how to prevent mosquito bites and keep your home mosquito free.

Employment Opportunities in VBD

Public / Private Sector Opportunities

Grant Sequencing Lead, Harris County Mosquito Vector Control

Under the supervision of the Mosquito Control AMCAR Manager, the Sequencing lead functions as the project lead and point of contact for the Microsoft Premonition project within the AMCAR Section of the division. This position is responsible for leading the laboratory and/or field-related activities including trapping, repairs and maintenance, and sample collections. The sequencing lead is also responsible for sample processing including, species identification, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, Nanopore sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis relating to mosquito and other disease vector species testing. M.S. from an accredited college or university in the field of Entomology, Biology, Environmental Science, or Public Health required. Application due June 30, 2022. Learn more.

Vector Biologist/Research Entomologist, NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene

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.

Green Shield Certified® Evaluator, IPM Institute of North America 

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Institute of North America seeks an evaluator to audit Green Shield Certified® pest control companies. If you are familiar with regulations and policies impacting pest management and are able to identify common structural pest problems, we’d love to hear from you. Your role will allow you to visit Green Shield Certified® pest control companies in the New York metro area. Bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, natural resources, wildlife ecology or related field required, plus at least five years’ experience in practicing IPM for structural pest management. Learn more.

Biologist Trainee, Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division, NJ

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. Learn more.

Senior Program Director, Kern Mosquito & Vector Control District

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, prepares reports, and presents results at the annual Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) conference. Position open until filled. Learn more.

Seasonal / Summer Opportunities

Research Assistants (2 positions), California Department of Public Health

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). Research Assistants are responsible for answering questions about WNV from public callers and coordinating submission of bird carcasses for WNV testing. Learn more.

Seasonal Field Technician, Berkshire County Mosquito Control Project, MA

The Berkshire County Mosquito Control Project located in Pittsfield, MA is currently seeking applicants to fill three (3) seasonal field technician positions. The Seasonal Field Technicians performs operational functions necessary for surveillance and control of mosquitoes and detection and response to isolations of arbovirus in local towns. These are short term position and do not included benefits other than earned sick leave. Positions start in April / May and continue through November 2022. Apply through MassCareer Job Opportunities position 220001KT

Academic Opportunities

Assistant Professor - Mosquito Biologist/Ecologist, UC Riverside

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. 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. 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. Application deadline June 30, 2022. Learn more.

Multiple Tenure-Track Positions, Department of Epidemiology, UNC Chapel Hill

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). At least one position will be in social epidemiology and at least one in environmental epidemiology. Proposed start date is August 1, 2022. Learn more.

Associate/Assistant Professor of Arthropod Vector Biology and/or Ecology, PennState

The Department of Entomology at Penn State invites applications in the area of Arthropod Vector Biology and/or Ecology for a tenure line, faculty position with a focus on the ecology of vectors and their role in disease transmission. A successful candidate will have expertise that will complement existing University strengths in epidemiology, IPM, chemical ecology, vector biology, genomics, and/or applied evolution/resistance management. This is a 9- month, Tenure Line, 75% Research, 25% Teaching appointment. Learn more.

Assistant Professor Positions (2) in Vector Disease & Ecology, University of Georgia

The Department of Infectious Diseases in the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL) at the University of Georgia invite applications for a joint appointment, tenure-track Assistant Professor in the area of vector ecology. Two positions are available. Two positions are available. One will be located in Athens, GA in the College of Veterinary Medicine and a second position will be located at the SREL. Areas of research might include, but are not limited to: arbovirus-vector interactions, pathogen and vector responses to climate change or land use, emerging vector-borne diseases, evolutionary strategies for limiting the spread of insecticide and drug resistance in pathogens and vectors, determinants of host shifts within and between ecosystems, behavioral influences of infectious disease dynamics, and terrestrial-aquatic linkages. Candidates should have a strong question-driven research program, which incorporates experimental (i.e., field, lab, molecular) approaches, to address the most challenging problems in one or more of these areas.

Postdoctoral / Fellowship Opportunities

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. Application deadline July 4, 2022. Learn more.

Postdoctoral Scholar, MacDonald Disease Ecology Lab, UC Santa Barbara

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 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. Apply by September 30, 2022. Learn more

Postdoctoral Positions, Lyme Disease and Other Tickborne Diseases, Wadsworth Center NYSDOH

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. We 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. Learn more. 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

Postdoctoral Positions, Askoy Lab, Yale University

We are inviting motivated Postdoctoral Scientists to join our group to study the physiology, and the molecular and genetic mechanisms involved in host-pathogen interactions in the tsetse fly-African trypanosome system. We study the role of the fly immune system and the influences of tsetse’s endosymbiotic bacteria in the parasite infection process. The successful candidate will likely have (a) a recent (4-years) PhD degree in entomology, microbiology or immunology or a related discipline; (b) a track record of research productivity , as evidenced by first authored original publications in high quality peer-reviewed journals; (c) experience in–omics based technologies, and parasite or insect cultures; and (d) experience with BSL2 procedures. Interested candidates should submit a CV, personal statement and contact information for three references through Interfolio

Postdoctoral Positions, Vector-Borne Disease Ecology and Control, Texas A&M

Postdoctoral positions in vector and vector-borne disease ecology and control are available at Texas A&M University in the lab of Gabriel Hamer Lab in the Department of Entomology. The successful candidate will contribute one or more research projects funded by multiple sponsors: 1) evaluate host-targeted ectoparasiticide and/or endectocides for the control of multiple vector species (triatomines, mosquitoes, ticks), 2) conduct lab, semi-field, and field trials evaluating traps and control tools for ticks and kissing bugs, 3) study human and animal infection or exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and other infection agents. Research projects include insectary, field, and high-containment labs (BSL2 and BSL3) with opportunities for domestic and international travel to study sites. Review of applications will begin immediately and the position start date is flexible. Learn more.

Postdoctoral Position, Vector Genomics Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

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. A thorough understanding of mosquito biology and mosquito genomics is required. The position is available immediately for one year. Applicants should submit a CV, statement of research interests, writing/publication sample and contact information of three references. Learn more.
Visit NEVBD Careers for More Details!

Training Opportunities in VBD

Biology of Mosquitoes, Ticks, and other Disease-Causing Arthropods - Online Certificate Course

Save 20% on enrollment using discount code MOSQUITO20. This new online certificate course offered through eCornell explores 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. This course provides an excellent foundation for understanding medical and public health entomology and disease control. Next offering of the course is scheduled to begin 6 July 2022.

Online Training in Vector Surveillance

Save 20% on enrollment using discount code MOSQUITO20. 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 Dr. Sarah Michaels and learn best practices to implement vector surveillance, data, and reporting methods. The next offering of the course is scheduled to begin 17 August 2022.

VectorBase In-Person Workshop

VectorBase is hosting an in-person workshop as a pre-meeting course to the Arthropod Genomics Symposium, from June 5 to June 9 at Notre Dame, Indiana. This 5-day intensive workshop that will provide you with hands-on training on how to effectively use VectorBase to mine the available data and to analyze your own data. Topics include manual gene curation, bioinformatic/omic analyses, and map population data query. Interested individuals can also apply for a travel award

Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens Open Community Webinar Series

This is a joint VEuPathDB and BV-BRC open community webinar series focusing on ticks and the bacterial, viral or eukaryotic pathogens they transmit. The webinars will focus on highlighting data and bioinformatic tools provided by the NIAID bioinformatic resource centers, VEuPathDB and BV-BRC. Each webinar will focus one specific data, tools and functionality provided by these NIAID-funded bioinformatic resource centers. To learn more about these webinar and to register to attend please follow this link. The final webinar in this series is scheduled for June 14, 2022.

Northeastern IPM Center Announces Spring 2022 "IPM Toolbox" Webinar Series

Got an IPM question? Need to know the latest IPM information? The Northeastern IPM Center has the answers with our webinar series, “The IPM Toolbox.” We’ve asked the experts to join us online for an hour of dialogue about an effective IPM practice, method, or effort. Learn more about the webinar line up and access recordings on the Northeastern IPM Center website.

ESA Launches IPM Certificate Program

Pest management professionals can jumpstart their careers through the Certified Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Technician credential from the Entomological Society of America Certification Corp. 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.

Online Tick Training Course

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. Learn more and enroll today!

Web-based Global Directory of Medical Entomology Courses

TDR has supported the development of a Global Atlas of Medical Entomology Schooling (GAMES), which lists a total of 126 medical entomology courses offered both on-campus and through distance learning in 32 countries across all WHO regions, covering seven languages. For each course, session dates, course outline, fees, language of instruction and responsible managers are listed. 
Further information: https://www.who.int/tdr/news/2020/new-resource-for-building-medical-entomology-capacity/en/
 
To access the directory, please follow this link (we kindly ask you to register on GVH): https://globalvectorhub.lshtm.ac.uk/courses
Visit NEVBD Careers for More Details!
Do you have a news story, job announcement, or other update that we should know about? Please send us a link for inclusion in future newsletters at at nevbd@cornell.edu!
The Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases is supported through Cooperative Agreement Number 1U01CK000509-01 between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Cornell University.

 

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