Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

The Plant Diagnostic Clinic Seeks a Lab Research Specialist with expertise in the area of pest and disease diagnosis. Responsibilities include maintaining lab accreditation and ensuring all diagnostic data is uploaded in a timely manner to the National PDIS database as required to maintain status as an active member of the National Plant Diagnostic Network. The position is expected to develop and follow standard operating procedures and protocols in the lab and oversee lab safety and maintenance of equipment required for diagnostics and grant research.

The position is expected to assist in grant funded research in plant pathology and seed disease analysis which may include assistance with grant writing in addition to reports and papers related to the research. Depending on funding, the position may scout and monitor for pests in the state of import/export importance. Maintain and order supplies and assist with Master Gardener Helpline diagnostics.

This position will be at a.80 FTE (30 hour work week), but may have the option to increase to a 1.0 FTE (37.5 hour work week) if funding is available.

Minimum Qualifications (or equivalent combination of education and experience) - Bachelor's degree in plant pathology or related field. Three plus years' experience with plant disease diagnostics. Ability to identify and diagnose fungal and bacterial pathogens, abiotic issues, insect and weed problems in the lab and field. Ability to get to and from one location on your own is necessary. Ability to work flexible hours as projects demand.

Knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and data analysis software. Assistance with grant and report writing. Effective interpersonal skills, organization and communication skills required. Work independently as well as with a team. Functional supervision of student interns may be required in the Clinic.

Desirable Qualifications
- Experience with uploading data to the National Repository, familiarity with NPDN Lab Accreditation. Familiarity with seedborne disease assessment. Familiarity with APHIS scouting protocols for import/export pests and diseases.

Anticipated Pay Range - $46,400- $54,400 at a.80 FTE ($58K to $68K at a 1.0 FTE)

Special Conditions - A probationary period may be required, contingent on continued funding, occasional evening and/or weekends required (if non-exempt position, may result in overtime), travel to and from worksites required, background check required for this position.

FLSA
- Exempt

Union Position
- Yes, UVMSU

Position will be posted for a minimum of one week, after which it is subject to removal without notice.

Job Location
- Burlington, Vermont, United States

Position Title
- Research Laboratory PC2 X

Posting Number - S6230PO

Department
- Ext
- Programming & Fac Sup/50040

Position Number - 004484

Percent of Full-Time - 0.80

Standard Hours at 1.0 FTE - 37.5

Term (months per year) - 12

The University of Vermont is a welcoming, educationally purposeful community committed to creating an inclusive environment that embraces intellectual diversity and global perspectives. We seek to prepare students to be accountable leaders who will bring to their work a grasp of complexity, effective problem-solving and communication skills, and an enduring commitment to learning and ethical conduct. Members of the University of Vermont community embrace and advance the values of Our Common Ground:
Respect, Integrity, Innovation, Openness, Justice, and Responsibility. Staff play a critical role in this effort and the successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to UVM's mission and advancing Our Common Ground values through the execution of their job duties.

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

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