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Research Scholar - DEPP
Job Description
Posting Number
PG192075EPInternal Recruitment
NoWorking Title
Research Scholar - DEPPAnticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with ExperienceWork Schedule
Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm (occasional longer work days or Saturday (in case of emergency))Job Location
Beltsville, MarylandDepartment
Entomology and Plant PathologyAbout the Department
The Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory 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 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.
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
This is a multiple hire posting. We are seeking to hire five (5) candidates from this posting.
The Research Scholar will conduct independent and original research in support of the APHIS-PPQ-S&T Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory’s (PPCDL) mission to develop, adapt, validate, and implement advanced molecular diagnostics for plant pathogens of regulatory concern to American agriculture and landscapes (including fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes). The diagnostic technologies of interest may include, but are not limited to PCR-based tests (e.g. cPCR, RT-PCR, qPCR), isothermal assays (e.g. RPA, LAMP, CRISPR), serological assays, high throughput sequencing methods, DNA sequence and bioinformatics analysis, as well as the development of methods for sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction.
The methods developed will be used by federal regulatory surveillance and eradication programs. The incumbent, under the guidance of staff scientists and team leaders, will receive input from stakeholders, review available literature, select appropriate technology, and develop work plans with detailed experimental parts. They will execute the project, collect, and analyze data according to QMS guidance, and are expected to prepare progress and validation reports on a specific schedule. When needed, the incumbent will work on a technology transfer and/or provide training to diagnosticians from inside PPQ or outside laboratories. The research will be informed by similar technologies under development at the PPCDL and the incumbent will be expected to present research findings at professional meetings and to extend these findings to key stakeholders, including plant protection officials at state and federal agencies.
The incumbent will also provide confirmatory routine and non-routine diagnostic support in addition to other lab activities as directed by the supervisor. The Research Scholar is also expected to manage these aspects of assigned project(s); track budget expenditures for the project work; perform all research with adherence to the PPCDL Quality Management System; and develop work instructions for the use of these diagnostic platforms by field personnel. They are also expected to deliver high-quality presentations to stakeholders and the broader scientific community.
You will be asked to select which project you are applying to in a supplemental question. The three projects are listed below:
The Research Scholar will conduct independent and original research in support of the APHIS-PPQ-S&T Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory’s (PPCDL) mission to develop, adapt, validate, and implement advanced molecular diagnostics for plant pathogens of regulatory concern to American agriculture and landscapes (including fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes). The diagnostic technologies of interest may include, but are not limited to PCR-based tests (e.g. cPCR, RT-PCR, qPCR), isothermal assays (e.g. RPA, LAMP, CRISPR), serological assays, high throughput sequencing methods, DNA sequence and bioinformatics analysis, as well as the development of methods for sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction.
The methods developed will be used by federal regulatory surveillance and eradication programs. The incumbent, under the guidance of staff scientists and team leaders, will receive input from stakeholders, review available literature, select appropriate technology, and develop work plans with detailed experimental parts. They will execute the project, collect, and analyze data according to QMS guidance, and are expected to prepare progress and validation reports on a specific schedule. When needed, the incumbent will work on a technology transfer and/or provide training to diagnosticians from inside PPQ or outside laboratories. The research will be informed by similar technologies under development at the PPCDL and the incumbent will be expected to present research findings at professional meetings and to extend these findings to key stakeholders, including plant protection officials at state and federal agencies.
The incumbent will also provide confirmatory routine and non-routine diagnostic support in addition to other lab activities as directed by the supervisor. The Research Scholar is also expected to manage these aspects of assigned project(s); track budget expenditures for the project work; perform all research with adherence to the PPCDL Quality Management System; and develop work instructions for the use of these diagnostic platforms by field personnel. They are also expected to deliver high-quality presentations to stakeholders and the broader scientific community.
You will be asked to select which project you are applying to in a supplemental question. The three projects are listed below:
- We are seeking to hire three (3) candidates for project: “Evaluation and development of new molecular diagnostic technologies for the detection US quarantine and regulated plant pathogens.”
- We are seeking to hire one (1) candidate for project: “Evaluation and development of new molecular diagnostic technologies for the detection US quarantine and regulated plant pathogens” ,and “Development and validation of molecular detection assays for Cotton Leafroll Dwarf Virus, Ceratocystis manginecans, and Ralstonia solanacearum and molecular diagnostics training.”
- We are seeking to hire one (1) candidate for project: “Development and validation of molecular detection assays for Cotton Leafroll Dwarf Virus, Ceratocystis manginecans, and Ralstonia solanacearum and molecular diagnostics training.”
These positions are 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 permission to work in the U.S.
Other Responsibilities
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Education and Experience
- PhD in Plant Pathology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or other related fields or a relevant Master’s degree with at least five (5) years of formal post-degree professional work experience.
Other Required Qualifications
- Attention to detail, knowledge of good laboratory practices, quality management systems, and excellent technical skills.
- Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently, working knowledge of Microsoft Office, as well as good written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- PhD in Plant Pathology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or other related fields
- At least 4 years of experience (including Ph.D. study) in plant pathology, molecular biology, or related fields.
- Documented experience in the molecular biology of microorganisms, computational biology/bioinformatics, and genomic or plant DNA/RNA extraction.
- Experience in the development, optimization, and validation of molecular diagnostic assays including conventional PCR and/or real-time PCR, isothermal or serological diagnostic assays, high-throughput sequencing and DNA sequence analysis.
- A strong background in the biology, taxonomy, and population genetics of plant pathogens.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required
NoCommercial Driver's License required
NoJob Open Date
09/16/2022Anticipated Close Date
Open until filled.Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a Cover Letter, CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.
Position Number
00109611Position Type
EHRA Non-FacultyFull Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.00Appointment
12 Month RecurringMandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse WeatherMandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Medical EmergenciesIs this position partially or fully funded on ARRA stimulus monies?
NoDepartment ID
111801 - Entomology and Plant PathologyAA/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.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.
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.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.
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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