Job Details
The Plant Protection and Quarantine Science and Technology (PPQ-S&T) - Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory's (PPCDL) 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.
Essential Job Duties
Project Title: Quarantine Plant Pathogens Reference Material and Methods Development and Validation in support of APHIS PPQ safeguarding mission.
The Research Assistant will work under the general supervision of a Project Leader to support projects on the development and validation of molecular and biochemical methods for the detection and identification of plant pests/pathogens, as directed.
Work duties will include
* Conducting experimental (bench) work according to the work plan,
* Recording, summarizing, and reporting results in writing or orally to the Project Lead,
* Operating and maintaining lab equipment
* Maintaining greenhouse plants
* Cleaning and maintaining general lab areas and labware
* Preparing media and reagents
* Autoclaving
The position is based at the APHIS-PPQ-S&T Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory in Laurel, MD. The incumbent must be a U.S. citizen or have permission to work in the U.S.
Other Responsibilities
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
* Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a relevant field
OR
* A relevant Bachelor's Degree with at least three (3) years of experience supporting relevant research.
Other Required Qualifications
* Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently.
* Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
* Good written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
n/a
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No