Research Assistant: Plant Disease Diagnostics

Position Overview Research Assistant: Plant Disease Diagnostics. The Center for Integrated Pest Management (CIPM) in Laurel, MD seeks a Research Assistant to support the cooperative agreement with APHIS PPQ S&T Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program (PPDCP). Core Business Hours Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, with flexible hours based on research needs. Salary: $50,000. FTE: 1.0 (40 hours/week). Position type: EPS/SAAO, 12‑month recurring. Essential Job Duties Laboratory Research & Diagnostic Support Develop, produce, and validate proficiency testing panels and diagnostic controls for regulated plant pests and pathogens. Prepare plant, culture, DNA, and RNA materials for testing and panel development. Conduct molecular and serological testing using PCR, real‑time PCR, ELISA, and related laboratory methods. Evaluate sample quality, stability, and homogeneity to support program requirements. Data Analysis & Documentation Maintain laboratory records and program documentation in accordance with approved procedures and quality standards. Analyze and organize data generated through laboratory testing and validation activities. Prepare reports and supporting documentation for certification and program needs. Laboratory Operations & Quality Management Support daily laboratory operations through equipment maintenance, inventory management, and resource coordination. Operate specialized laboratory equipment and maintain laboratory supplies and facilities. Perform all activities in accordance with the PPCDL Quality Management System (QMS), approved SOPs, and laboratory safety requirements. Certification Program Support & Collaboration Support diagnostician certification activities, diagnostic methods validation, and proficiency testing distributions. Collaborate with federal partners to support project objectives and cooperative agreement requirements. Contribute to the successful delivery of accurate, timely, and compliant program activities. Other Responsibilities Interfacing with Federal cooperators to determine project requirements. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology or other relevant disciplines with at least 3 years of relevant professional experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Other Required Qualifications Experience in molecular biology of microorganisms; genomic or plant DNA/RNA extraction; conventional and real‑time PCR and Reverse Transcription‑PCR analysis; gel electrophoresis; data management. Attention to details, good time management and record keeping, and excellent technical skills. Understanding of good laboratory practices (GLP) and quality management system (QMS) principles. Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently, working knowledge of Microsoft Office, good written and oral communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with plant pathogens is preferred and working in biosecurity regulations. Required License(s) or Certification(s) The candidate must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (green card) and is expected to pass NCSU and USDA background checks. No other emigration statuses are acceptable. Valid driver's license or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start. Valid NC driver's license required. EEO NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact View phone number on click.appcast.io to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io. Final candidates are subject to criminal and 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr