Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

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Advertising/Posting Title Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

Posting Summary

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

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

Other Information

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 in available.
Some work may be conducted outside of normal 8:00 – 4:30 time frame.

Special Conditions

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

FLSA Exempt

Union Position

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

Job Open Date

Job Open Date 07/23/2026

Job Close Date (Jobs close at 11:59 PM EST.)

Open Until Filled No

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