Research Scholar - Entomology and Plant Pathology

North Carolina State University, United States

Updated: 2 months ago
Location: Raleigh, NORTH CAROLINA
Deadline: ;

Posting Details
Posting Information


Posting Number PG193236EP
Internal Recruitment No
Working Title Research Scholar - Entomology and Plant Pathology
Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience
Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm (occasional longer work days or Saturday (in case of emergency))
Job Location Laurel, Maryland
Department Entomology and Plant Pathology
About the Department
The Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory’s mission is to provide federal confirmatory diagnostics for regulatory plant pests/pathogens; develop and validate advanced molecular and serological detection methods, and proficiency test (PT) panels for plant pests that threaten U.S. agriculture; evaluate the applicability of new, state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies in support of the agency efforts.
As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a diverse portfolio of programs in teaching, research, and extension components. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science, but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands-on learning opportunities using the latest technologies.
Essential Job Duties
Project Title: Quarantine Plant Pathogens Reference Material and Methods Development and Validation in support of the APHIS PPQ safeguarding mission.
Overview:
The Research Scholar will collaborate closely with a Senior Scientist to advance the development of nucleic acid templates, PCR primers, and probes for real-time and conventional PCR assays. The primary objective is to create a universal PT kit comprising randomized samples, controls, primers, probes, and essential reagents. This kit will facilitate the evaluation of technical competency among diagnosticians. Additionally, the role involves overseeing the scaling up of production, conducting quality control tests, and drafting technical documents and SOPs. The incumbent will also coordinate a ring test with select laboratories and analyze data to support kit implementation. Duties may extend to maintaining plant and fungal/bacterial cultures, conducting laboratory maintenance tasks, and managing experimental data.

  • Assay Development: Select nucleic acid templates, design PCR primers and probes, and develop real-time and conventional PCR assays under the guidance of the Senior Scientist.
  • Assay Validation: Assess the major performance characteristics of developed assays across various matrices and evaluate template and reagent stability.
  • Kit Development: Lead efforts in scaling up production of the universal PT kit, conduct quality control tests on all components, and develop technical documents and SOPs for production and participant use.
  • Ring Test Coordination: Organize and execute a ring test involving a limited number of laboratories, and analyze resulting data to support the implementation of the PT kit.
  • Work Instructions: Develop work instructions for the utilization of diagnostic platforms by field personnel, ensuring effective implementation.
  • Data Management: Record experimental data in official laboratory notebooks, enter and maintain data in computer programs, and generate comprehensive reports.
  • Project Management: Manage assigned projects, track budget expenditures, and ensure adherence to the APHIS PPQ S&T PPCDL Quality Management System.
  • Laboratory Operations: Maintain plant and fungal/bacterial cultures, prepare culture media and buffers, and perform general laboratory maintenance tasks as assigned.
  • Supervision and Training: Oversee day-to-day activities of research assistants or laboratory technicians, and provide training to laboratory personnel as needed.


This position is based at the APHIS-PPQ-S&T Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory in Laurel, MD. All hired incumbents must be a U.S. citizen or have permament residency.
Other Responsibilities
  • May oversee day to day activities of a research assistant or biological laboratory technician
  • May provide training to lab personnel.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications


Minimum Education and Experience
  • Ph.D in Plant Pathology, Virology, Microbiology, molecular biology or other closely allied fields


OR
  • Relevant Master’s degree with at least 5 years of formal post-degree professional work experience
Other Required Qualifications
  • Academic background and research experience studying and characterizing microorganisms and pathogens
  • Documented experience with major molecular biology technologies such as conventional and real-time PCRs, isothermal amplification, nucleic acid extractions, results visualizations, and analysis for diagnosis of microorganisms.
  • Ability to conduct extensive sequence analysis and develop primers/probes and molecular assays.
  • Attention to detail, good time management and record keeping, and excellent technical skills.
  • Understanding of good laboratory practices (GLP).
  • Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently, working knowledge of Microsoft Office, good written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Plant pathogen identification experience
  • Experience with development and execution of conventional PCR, real-time PCR, DNA sequence analysis, plant pathogen biology and/or diagnostics of pathogens (fungi, bacteria, virus or nematodes).
  • Experience with diagnostic platform adaptation or evaluation and experience with laboratory procedures of applicable molecular biology and techniques as well as experience with experimental design.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No
Commercial Driver's License required No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions


Job Open Date 02/20/2024
Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
In addition to your application, applicants should submit the following: Cover Letter, CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.
The position is based at the USDA, APHIS PPQ Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostic Laboratory (PPCDL) in Laurel, MD. US citizenship or permanent residency is required.

Position Details


Position Number 00108074
Position Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00
Appointment 12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Medical Emergencies
Department ID 111801 - Entomology and Plant Pathology
AA/EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or [email protected] .
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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