Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the intersection of healthcare, biology, and environmental studies, the role of medical and veterinary entomologists shines bright.

As the world continues to grapple with an array of health and environmental challenges, the demand for skilled individuals who can study, understand, and combat pests affecting human and animal health grows stronger.

But what does a medical and veterinary entomologist actually do?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional eager to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the fascinating world of medical and veterinary entomology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable medical and veterinary entomologist job description template, designed for seamless integration into job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Duties and Responsibilities

Medical and Veterinary Entomologists are professionals who study insects and their relationship to humans, animals, and the environment.

They often work on public health issues or in veterinary entomology, researching how insects carry diseases that affect humans and animals.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on insects that pose threats to human and animal health
• Developing methods of insect control or elimination to prevent the spread of diseases
• Creating and maintaining comprehensive records of research findings and data
• Identifying and classifying different types of insects and their behaviors
• Investigating the role of insects in disease transmission
• Collaborating with medical and veterinary professionals to apply research findings
• Writing research papers, reports, and presenting findings at conferences
• Advise government agencies, health organizations and the general public on issues related to insects and disease
• Keeping current with the latest research and advancements in the field of entomology

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Medical and Veterinary Entomologist to join our team.

As part of our team, you will study insects and their relationship to humans, animals, and the environment.

Your work will contribute to the understanding of how insects carry diseases and how to control and prevent outbreaks.

Our ideal candidate will have a strong background in entomology, with a focus on medical and veterinary entomology.

The ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present findings are crucial to this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the life cycles and habits of insects and their interaction with humans, animals, and the environment
• Study and document the role of insects in transmitting diseases
• Develop and implement pest control plans, including the use of insecticides and biological controls
• Provide consultation to medical, veterinary, and environmental professionals
• Collaborate with researchers in related fields, such as epidemiology and virology
• Design and carry out field studies and laboratory experiments
• Publish research findings in scientific journals and present at conferences
• Contribute to public health education efforts related to insect-borne diseases

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology or a related field
• Experience with medical and veterinary entomology
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of insect-borne diseases and their control
• Experience with statistical analysis and data interpretation

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Medical and Veterinary Entomologist
• Work Environment: This position involves both laboratory and fieldwork. Some travel may be required for research purposes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Department or Research Lead.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Do?

Medical and Veterinary Entomologists typically work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or private companies in the pharmaceutical or pest control industry.

They study insects and their relationship to diseases, veterinary health, and medical health.

They play a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases by insects to humans and animals.

Their work often involves field research where they collect and identify various species of insects, and laboratory research where they analyze the insects for pathogens that cause diseases.

They also monitor and control insect populations and develop strategies to prevent the spread of diseases.

This may involve creating and testing insecticides, developing vaccines, or improving public health policies.

In addition, they often work closely with medical professionals, veterinarians, public health officials, and scientists in other disciplines to understand and mitigate the impact of insects on health.

Many Medical and Veterinary Entomologists also have a role in education, teaching courses, and presenting their research to both scientific communities and the public.

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Qualifications and Skills

A qualified medical and veterinary entomologist should have the skills and qualifications that align with the requirements of this specialized field, including:

• Strong understanding and knowledge of entomology, particularly in relation to diseases that can be transmitted to humans and animals.
• Ability to conduct detailed research on insect behavior, life cycle, and habitats using rigorous scientific methodology.
• Experience with laboratory procedures and techniques, including insect collection, preservation, and dissection.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret research data and draw conclusions about insect-borne diseases.
• Communication skills to effectively share research findings with the medical and scientific community, public health officials, and the public.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other scientists, healthcare professionals, veterinarians, and public health officials.
• Knowledge of safety protocols when dealing with potentially harmful insects and the diseases they may carry.
• Experience with computer programs and statistical software used in data analysis and modeling insect populations.
• Patience and persistence in conducting long-term studies and dealing with the uncertainties and challenges of scientific research.

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Experience Requirements

For Medical and Veterinary Entomologists, the journey begins with a Bachelor’s degree in Entomology, Biology, or a related field.

This degree offers the basic knowledge about insects and their relationships with the environment, humans, and animals.

On top of this, some entry-level positions may require 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, research assistant roles, or part-time roles in entomology labs during undergraduate studies.

This gives aspiring Medical and Veterinary Entomologists practical exposure to insect handling, identification, and understanding insect-borne diseases.

Candidates looking to progress further in the field usually obtain a Master’s degree or PhD in Entomology or a related field.

During postgraduate studies, individuals specialize in medical or veterinary entomology and gain substantial research experience, often publishing their findings in scientific journals.

After graduation, they might gain additional experience working in a health department, university, research institution, or private industry.

Here they can develop expertise in specific areas, such as mosquito control or tick-borne diseases.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience are often considered experts in their field.

They may take on supervisory roles, leading research teams, or become professors, imparting their knowledge to the next generation.

Those with over 10 years of experience may be considered for leadership roles in government agencies, global health organizations, or private companies, where they can influence policies and strategies to control insect-borne diseases on a broader scale.

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Education and Training Requirements

Medical and Veterinary Entomologists typically require a bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, or a related science discipline.

They should have a strong foundational understanding of zoology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

In particular, they need in-depth knowledge of insects and how they interact with the environment and other organisms.

To specialize in medical or veterinary entomology, further education is typically required.

Many professionals in this field possess a master’s or doctoral degree.

Graduate level studies often involve research in entomology, parasitology, epidemiology, and public health.

Additionally, some positions may require certification from a recognized entomological society.

The Entomological Society of America, for instance, offers a certification program for medical entomologists.

Work experience, often gained through internships or similar positions during undergraduate or graduate studies, is also beneficial in this field.

Continuing education to keep up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in entomology and related fields is often expected.

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Salary Expectations

A Medical and Veterinary Entomologist earns an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on the level of experience, type of employment (government, private sector, academia), and the geographical location.

 

Medical and Veterinary Entomologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist need?

Medical and Veterinary Entomologists need analytical and problem-solving skills to conduct research and understand complex biological systems.

They should have a keen attention to detail to conduct accurate observations and experiments.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to explain their findings to others.

Proficiency in statistical software and scientific technology is also necessary for this role.

 

Do Medical and Veterinary Entomologists need a degree?

Yes, a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist requires a degree.

Most positions require a minimum of a master’s degree in entomology, biology, or a related field.

However, for more advanced research positions, a doctorate may be necessary.

This academic background provides the necessary knowledge in insect biology, ecology, and disease transmission.

 

What should you look for in a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist resume?

When reviewing a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist’s resume, check for a degree in entomology, biology, or a related field.

Look for experience in laboratory and field research, as well as knowledge in insect-borne diseases.

Familiarity with scientific software and laboratory equipment is also important.

Any publications or contributions to scientific journals can indicate a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.

 

What qualities make a good Medical and Veterinary Entomologist?

A good Medical and Veterinary Entomologist is meticulous and detail-oriented, as precision is crucial in research and experimentation.

They should also be patient and persistent, as studies and research can take a long time and results may not be immediate.

Further, good communication skills are important in presenting and discussing research findings.

A passion for science and a strong desire to contribute to the understanding and control of insect-borne diseases are also important qualities.

 

What are the daily duties of a Medical and Veterinary Entomologist?

A Medical and Veterinary Entomologist typically spends their day conducting field and laboratory studies, collecting and analyzing data, and documenting results.

They may also be involved in developing and testing new methods to control insect-borne diseases.

Part of their day may involve reading up on the latest research, writing reports, and presenting findings.

Some may also teach classes or mentor students if they work in an academic setting.

 

Conclusion

There we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a medical and veterinary entomologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying insects.

It’s about protecting human and animal health, one insect species at a time.

With our essential medical and veterinary entomologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re now ready to spread your wings.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every insect species studied contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s safeguard our health. Together.

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