Medical Entomologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advancing health sciences, the role of medical entomologists has never been more crucial.

As our understanding of disease vectors grows, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can study, control, and mitigate risks associated with insects and arthropods that affect human health.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a medical entomologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intersection of entomology and medicine,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable medical entomologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Medical Entomologist Duties and Responsibilities

Medical Entomologists specialize in the study of insects and arthropods that impact human health.

They perform research, conduct tests, and develop strategies to prevent and control insect-borne diseases.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on the life cycle and characteristics of insects and arthropods that transmit diseases
• Developing methods to control and prevent the spread of insect-borne diseases
• Collecting and identifying various insect and arthropod species in a laboratory or field setting
• Documenting and analyzing data from research studies
• Educating the public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers about insect-borne diseases and prevention strategies
• Working in collaboration with other scientists and health professionals to develop integrated pest and vector management strategies
• Assessing the effectiveness of pest control methods and strategies
• Writing research papers, reports, and proposals for funding
• Maintaining a safe and clean laboratory environment in compliance with health and safety regulations
• Staying updated with the latest research and developments in the field of medical entomology

 

Medical Entomologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Medical Entomologist to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for researching and understanding the behavior of insects and arthropods that have an impact on human health.

Tasks include conducting field studies, collecting samples, analyzing data, and developing control strategies.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of entomology, epidemiology, and public health issues.

Ultimately, you should contribute to the prevention and control of diseases transmitted by insects and other arthropods and improve public health outcomes.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed research on insects and arthropods that impact human health.
• Collect and identify insect and arthropod specimens in various environments.
• Monitor and analyze data to understand insect behavior and disease transmission.
• Develop strategies for controlling and preventing the spread of diseases carried by insects and arthropods.
• Conduct fieldwork and laboratory tests to study insect biology, life cycle, and their role in disease transmission.
• Present research findings and provide expert advice to healthcare professionals and policymakers.
• Collaborate with other scientists in disease prevention and control efforts.
• Stay up-to-date with latest advancements in medical entomology.

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Biology, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience as a Medical Entomologist.
• Strong knowledge of insect biology, behavior, and their role in disease transmission.
• Experience with fieldwork and laboratory research.
• Proficiency in using scientific software and databases.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication skills, with the ability to present complex data in a clear manner.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel reimbursement for fieldwork

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Medical Entomologist
• Work Environment: Combination of office, laboratory, and fieldwork. Travel may be required for research and studies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department or Research Director.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience, qualifications, and budgetary allowances.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any relevant publications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Medical Entomologist Do?

Medical Entomologists are specialized scientists who study insects and their relationship to diseases.

They typically work in research institutions, universities, government health departments or international health organizations.

Their primary role is to study, investigate and understand the biology and behavior of insects that can transmit diseases to humans.

This includes mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas among other vectors.

Medical Entomologists often perform fieldwork, collecting insect samples to study in the laboratory.

They investigate how these insects carry and transmit diseases, and the impact of these diseases on human health.

They also work closely with other public health professionals and epidemiologists to develop strategies to control and prevent the spread of diseases through vector management.

Their work involves conducting research, publishing findings in scientific journals, and communicating their findings to the public and other health professionals.

In some cases, they may also be involved in creating and testing new insecticides and repellents, or developing genetically modified insects to reduce disease transmission.

Furthermore, Medical Entomologists often provide education and training to community health workers and the public on how to reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases.

They may also advise government agencies on public health policies related to vector control.

 

Medical Entomologist Qualifications and Skills

Medical Entomologists combine their knowledge of insects and medical science to address public health issues.

The required skills and qualifications may include:

• A strong foundation in the biological sciences, particularly in entomology and vector biology, to understand the life cycles, behaviors, and habitats of medically significant insects and arthropods.
• Knowledge of medical and veterinary parasitology to understand the pathogens transmitted by insects and their impact on human and animal health.
• Proficiency in lab techniques and procedures, including dissection, specimen identification, and the use of microscopes and other lab equipment.
• Understanding of epidemiology to study disease outbreaks and the role of insect vectors in disease transmission.
• Strong problem-solving skills to investigate and address public health threats related to insect vectors.
• Research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing, to contribute to the scientific understanding of medical entomology.
• Communication skills to collaborate with public health officials, medical professionals, and the public, and to disseminate research findings effectively.
• Adaptability and resilience to work in various settings, including labs, fieldwork in diverse environments, and sometimes in challenging conditions.

 

Medical Entomologist Experience Requirements

Starting as a Medical Entomologist typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, or a closely related field.

Entry-level positions may be attainable with this level of education, particularly in roles assisting more experienced entomologists in lab-based research or fieldwork.

Some professionals choose to gain experience through internships, research assistant roles, or laboratory technician positions, where they can gain hands-on experience with insect collection, identification, and management, as well as public health research.

Graduate education, such as a Master’s or Doctorate degree, is often necessary for more advanced positions in medical entomology.

These degrees typically require additional years of study, including specialized research in the field of medical entomology.

Experience requirements for senior roles often include several years of post-graduate work in a relevant setting, such as a research institution, government agency, or public health organization.

This work can involve conducting and publishing original research, teaching, and making contributions to public health policy.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may be considered for leadership or managerial roles, often requiring demonstrated experience in project management, grant writing, and staff supervision.

In addition, professional certifications, such as the Certified Entomologist designation from the Entomological Society of America, can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and a high level of expertise in the field.

 

Medical Entomologist Education and Training Requirements

Medical Entomologists typically require a bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, zoology or a related field as a minimum educational requirement.

This foundational education provides a broad understanding of insect biology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology, which is crucial to the role.

It is often supplemented by specialized courses in medical entomology, parasitology, and public health.

However, many positions often require a master’s degree or a doctorate in entomology or a related field, particularly for research-based or academic roles.

These advanced degrees provide more in-depth knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field.

Specialized courses or training in medical entomology, parasitology, vector-borne diseases and pest management are highly valuable.

They help equip the professional with the necessary skills to identify and control disease vectors, and understand the pathogenic organisms they may carry.

A strong background in scientific research methods, fieldwork techniques and laboratory procedures is also necessary for this role.

In addition, many Medical Entomologists also choose to become certified by professional bodies such as the Entomological Society of America.

This not only validates their expertise and skills but also enhances their professional credibility.

Continuous education and staying updated with the latest research and trends in the field is also crucial, given the rapidly evolving nature of disease vectors and the pathogens they transmit.

 

Medical Entomologist Salary Expectations

A Medical Entomologist earns an average salary of $79,370 (USD) per year.

The salary may vary depending on the level of experience, education, specific field of entomology, and geographical location.

 

Medical Entomologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Medical Entomologist need?

Medical Entomologists need a strong foundation in biological sciences, especially in areas like genetics, physiology, and ecology.

They should also possess excellent research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, and reporting.

Other important skills include attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and patience for observing the behavior of insects and other arthropods over time.

 

Do Medical Entomologists require a degree?

Yes, Medical Entomologists typically need a graduate degree in entomology, biology, or a related field.

Many have a Ph.D. Additionally, Medical Entomologists may need specific training in areas like parasitology, infectious diseases, or public health depending on their research focus or the needs of their employer.

 

What should you look for in a Medical Entomologist resume?

On a Medical Entomologist’s resume, look for a strong educational background in biological sciences and specific expertise in entomology.

Research experience is also important, especially if it’s relevant to your organization’s focus.

Certifications or additional training in related areas like epidemiology or public health can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Medical Entomologist?

A good Medical Entomologist has a deep curiosity about insects and their interactions with the environment and human health.

They are patient, meticulous, and analytical, with the ability to conduct careful experiments and draw meaningful conclusions from their results.

Good communication skills are also key, as they often need to explain their findings to non-scientists or work as part of a research team.

 

What are the typical duties of a Medical Entomologist?

Medical Entomologists often conduct field and laboratory research on the behavior, biology, and ecology of insects and other arthropods that transmit diseases.

They analyze their findings and apply them to controlling and preventing insect-borne diseases.

They may also work on developing new tools and strategies for insect control, as well as educating the public and health professionals about insect-borne diseases and their prevention.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of a medical entomologist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about studying insects.

It’s about safeguarding public health, one bug at a time.

With our tailored medical entomologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to forge ahead.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating laser-sharp job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every insect studied is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s ensure a healthier future. Together.

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