New PacVec study: De novo determination of mosquitocidal Cry11Aa and Cry11Ba structures from naturally-occurring nanocrystals
The most commonly used biological insecticides for controlling mosquito and black fly vector populations are produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis, which produces one of the most potent toxins, Cry11Aa. A related toxin produced by Bt subsp. Jegathesan is Cry11Ba, which is seven to thirty-seven times more toxic than Cry11Aa against major mosquito vector species belonging to the genera Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex. The toxins naturally crystallize within the host; however, the crystals are too small for structure determination at synchrotron sources. In a new study co-authored by PacVec researcher and UC Riverside Distinguished Professor Dr. Brian Federici, serial femtosecond crystallography at X-ray free electron lasers were applied to in vivo-grown nanocrystals of these toxins. The structure of Cry11Aa was determined de novo using the single-wavelength anomalous dispersion method, which in turn enabled the determination of the Cry11Ba structure by molecular replacement. The two structures reveal a new pattern for in vivo crystallization of Cry toxins, whereby each of their three domains packs with a symmetrically identical domain, and a cleavable crystal packing motif is located within the protoxin rather than at the termini. The diversity of in vivo crystallization patterns suggests explanations for their varied levels of toxicity and rational approaches to improve these toxins for mosquito control[full publication].
New Opportunity Available: CDC Vector-Borne Disease Fellowship
A research fellowship opportunity is currently available with the Dengue Branch Entomology and Ecology Unit within the Division of Vector-Borne Diseases (DVBD), National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Fort Collins, CO. The Fellow will participate in field investigations on establishing what are the minimum numbers of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes required to prevent rampant outbreaks of arboviruses such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, or yellow fever viruses. The Fellow will participate in various aspects of the research, including training in mosquito surveillance and control activities, data quality control, equipment calibration, statistical analyses, field work, and discussion and presentations of results. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors. The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC and is contingent on the availability of funds. The qualified candidate should have received a master's degree in one of the relevant fields, or be currently pursuing the degree with completion by December 31, 2022. Degree must have been received within five years of the appointment start date. For details and application procedure, please see the following link:CDC Dengue Branch ORISE Fellowship.
Application due: 09/26/2022 3:00 PM ET
West Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) activity continues in the Pacific Southwest
CALIFORNIA
WNV - Human Cases: 7 Counties: 4 Two more WNV-positive human cases were recently reported in the following county: Stanislaus. WNV has been detected in 23 counties in California this year: Yuba, Stanislaus, Butte, San Bernardino, Shasta, Solano, Madera, Kings, Tulare, Santa Clara, Sutter, Nevada, Placer, Yolo, Sacramento, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Fresno, Merced, Los Angeles, Kern, Riverside, and Orange.
ARIZONA WNV - A total of 12 human cases of WNV disease and 1 WNV-related fatality have been recorded in Maricopa County this year. As of August 5th, nine WNV-positive mosquito samples have been reported in Maricopa County.
SLEV - As of August 5th, a total of 65 SLEV-positive mosquito samples have been reported in Maricopa County.
UTAH One WNV-positive mosquito sample was recently detected in Davis County.
IDAHO Surveillance for WNV has been conducted in a total of 17 counties. No positive findings have been identified so far this season. View the WNV surveillance summary here.
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.
MVCAC 91st Annual Conference: Call for Papers and Presentations Due October 3, 2022!
The Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) will hold its 91st Annual Conference January 29-February 1, 2023 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA. This year’s conference will focus on “Innovative Control Technologies for the Future”. With this in mind, please consider submitting a paper that will be considered for presentation at the conference by October 3, 2022. In addition to general submissions, PacVec will organize a research symposium for the MVCAC meeting, so please send a note to questions@pacvec.us if you are interested in being a part of the session. Presentations should be related to mosquitoes or other vectors, the disease organisms they transmit, or their surveillance and control. Presentations may be about research results, the development and testing of new methods, equipment or products, education, community outreach and the adaptation or development of new technology relating to vector research, surveillance or control, or the administration of a vector control agency. Learn more here!
2022 William C. Reeves New Investigator Award Applications Due October 3, 2022!
The William C. Reeves New Investigator Award is given annually by the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) to recognize the best scientific paper by current undergraduate or graduate students or recent graduates submitted and presented at MVCAC's annual conference. Applications for the 2022 Reeves Award will be accepted through Monday, October 3, 2022. The award memorializes Dr. William C. Reeves, who was a renowned professor of entomology at the University of California. Learn more here!
The Reeves New Investigator Award application differs from the MVCAC Call for Papers, if you have an additional speaking topic for the Call for Papers, please follow that application and guidelines.
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.
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.
Online Training in Vector Surveillance - Next course begins August 17, 2022!
Save 20% 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 learn best practices to implement vector surveillance, data, and reporting methods.
Online Course: Biology of Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Other Disease-Causing Arthropods - Next course begins September 7, 2022!
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.
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:
Special Issue on "Landscape Epidemiology of Vector-Borne Diseases"
Dr. Chad L. Cross (chad.cross@unlv.edu) is putting together an article collection in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health aiming to publish manuscripts that directly incorporate scale (time and/or space) into understanding vector-borne disease patterns and processes and, ultimately, how these patterns and processes potentially impact human and/or animal health. Manuscripts may focus on disease vectors, vector-borne pathogens, zoonotic diseases, emerging diseases, mathematical/statistical modeling, etc. so long as landscape epidemiology and disease vectors are functionally incorporated into the thesis of the manuscript. Manuscripts that incorporate a One Health perspective are especially welcome [Learn More]. Deadline for manuscript submissions: August 31, 2023.
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 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!
Interested in learning more about the work that PacVec is doing? Check out a recently published web page that highlights field work, research, and training conducted by PacVec students and investigators.
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/.
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 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 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
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is requesting research proposals. This funding opportunity is aimed at improving their Integrated Vector Management Program targeting mosquitoes, red imported fire ants, and flies in the Coachella Valley. Past research projects have included attractive sugar baits, vegetation management in wetlands, biological control of fire ants, and activity of house flies. Because of the unique environment including very high temperatures and low precipitation, projects designed to work with the environmental conditions for surveillance of vectors and vector-borne diseases and projects that tailor control methods to the habitat here are of great interest.
The general timeline for proposal submission review is as follows:
Proposal due by September 1, 2022
Proposals will be reviewed in October by District ad hoc Research Committee
Recommendations for funding District ad hoc Research Committee will be made at November Board Meeting (Nov 8th)
Researchers notified of Board decision on Nov 10th
Funding for selected research will be distributed in Jan 2023
ORISE Fellowship, Vectors & Vector-Borne Disease Pathogens Molecular Inventory, U.S. Air Force
The ORISE Fellow opportunity will be generating and analyzing nucleotide sequence data for vectors and vector-borne disease pathogens sampled from U.S. Air Force Bases. For this one year project, the participant will generate and analyze multiple target sequences from various arthropod disease vectors (ticks, mosquitoes) and vector-borne disease pathogens (viruses, bacteria). The data will be used to evaluate the taxonomic identity and relatedness of the samples to other taxa within their groups, infer the geographic origin of introduced arthropods, and/or attempt to resolve cryptic species diversity (ex. species within the Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick) complex).
Location: Dayton, OH Stipend: $57,000.00 - $68,000.00 (depending on education, qualifications, and experience) Anticipated start date: 09/01/2022
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
The Solano County Mosquito Abatement District is now accepting applications for the position of Mosquito Control Technician. Under general direction, this position performs an array of mosquito surveillance and control functions and other duties as assigned. Duties, responsibilities, qualifications Please see the attached job description for stated duties and responsibilities.
Salary: $5,397.00 to $7,232.00 per month Location: Fairfield, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Greater LA County Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under general supervision (Assistant Vector Ecologist) or direction (Vector Ecologist), conducts and executes various aspects of the District's scientific-technical program; collects, preserves, records, and reports on a wide variety of biological and ecological field data associated with public health vectors, with an emphasis on mosquitoes; conducts field trials and surveillance for mosquitoes and mosquito borne diseases; provides assistance in the collection, analysis, and recording of biological and entomological field and laboratory data associated with the District’s scientific subprograms and technical services; performs field and laboratory trials and studies to evaluate the effectiveness of pesticides; provides technical assistance concerning operational pesticide application methods; and performs related work as required.
Salary: $34.66 - $48.86 per hour Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA Application due: Continuous
The San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under the general direction of the Entomologist or his/her designee, the Vector Ecologist assists and coordinates with a variety of routine and standard biological and entomological activities to support the District’s comprehensive programs in vector surveillance and control, vector-borne disease surveillance and prevention, and relative research projects; and perform related laboratory and field work as required. Salary: Approximately $69,285.06 - $84,216.34 per year Location: San Joaquin County, CA Application due: Open until filled
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 San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. The Director of Scientific Programs directs and administers the District’s disease surveillance program, supervises the Vector Ecologists and all other disease surveillance staff; collaborates with other District departments to assist the District Manager with planning, directing, and evaluating the District’s overall operations. Salary: $8,446.53 - $10,557.73 per month Location: West Covina, 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 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.
The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under direction of the General Manager, this position has both management and supervisory responsibilities and may be called upon to interpret directives to staff and to give authoritative advice and direction on specific issues. Successful performance requires an in depth understanding of the philosophy of the Board of Trustees and the General Manager on a broad range of matters. Performs higher level essential tasks as necessary to maintain operations in the absence of General Manager. Incumbent is expected to use good judgment to defer appropriate matters to the General Manager for personal attention. Salary: The starting salary for this position is contingent on experience and qualifications. Location: Elk Grove, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and 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 Greater LA County Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under direction, coordinates and delivers the District’s youth and student education programs as an instructor; provides educational programs both in the classroom and via the District’s mobile education unit; drives and operates the mobile education unit to school sites and outreach events throughout Los Angeles County; develops curriculum material for classroom activities; provides support for departmental outreach efforts; and performs related work as required. Salary: $32.17 - $39.10 per hour Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA Application due: Open until filled
The Greater LA County Vector Control District is seeking applications to fill this position. Under general supervision, services, repairs, and performs maintenance of District vehicles and pesticide application equipment; performs routine maintenance and repair of District buildings, facilities, fixtures, and grounds; designs and fabricates custom fixtures, equipment, and tools; coordinates with vendors regarding repairs; prepares and maintains accurate records of work activities; and performs related work as required. Salary: $32.99 - $40.10 per hour Location: Santa Fe Springs, 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
Salary: $5,955.00 - $6,566.00 per month Location: Concord, CA Application due: Open until filled
NEW - Assistant/Associate Professor in Microbiology (Tenure Track)
The University of California, Davis is seeking an outstanding research-focused microbiologist with a demonstrated research interest in veterinary bacteriology/mycology. The faculty provide a strong, collegial core to support investigation of infectious agents and disease in animals and humans. The departmental research focuses on the mechanisms by which diseases develop at the organismal, cellular, and molecular levels. They have overlapping and collaborative research strengths in both the interactions of microbes with their hosts and the host response to infection. A PhD or equivalent is required. Topics of specific interest include but are not limited to: antimicrobial resistance, the microbiome, microbial ecology, bacterial pathogenesis, metagenomics and the development of cutting-edge techniques to detect or examine the pathogenesis of bacterial or fungal infections.
Location: Davis, CA Date posted: 07/20/2022 Next review date: 09/15/2022 Application due: 12/31/2022
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.
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 - Tetreau G, Sawaya MR, De Zitter E, Andreeva EA, Bannevile A-S, Federici B et al.De novo determination of mosquitocidal Cry11Aa and Cry11Ba structures from naturally-occurring nanocrystals. Nat Commun. 2022.https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-31746-x
Sumner BD, Cardé RT. Primacy of human odors over visual and heat cues in inducing landing in female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. J Insect Behav. 2022.https://doi.org/10.1007/s10905-022-09796-2
Backus LH, Pascoe EL, Foley J. Will new ticks invade North America? How to identify future invaders. Trends in Parasitology. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2022.06.004
Guinn A, Su T, Thieme J, Cheng M-L, Brown MQ, Thiemann T. Characterization of the Blood-Feeding Patterns of Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) in San Bernardino County, California. J Med Entomol. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjac077
López-Pérez AM, Pesapane R, Clifford DL, Backus L, Foley P, Foley J et al. Host species and environment drivers of ectoparasite community of rodents in Mojave Desert wetlands. PLoS One. 2022.https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0269160
Conway KL, Jasuja RM, Hauser NE, Foley JE. Benefits, companion animal zoonotic disease prevalence and public perceptions of pet ownership among people experiencing homelessness in northern California. Zoonoses and Public Health. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1111/zph.12970
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
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