Molecular Diagnostics Technician at USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

The position would be located at the USDA APHIS PPQ S&T Forest Pest Methods Laboratory on the Joint Base Cape Cod, MA, working with Dr. Alex Wu. The technician will be an employee of the University of Massachusetts Amherst funded through a cooperative agreement.
The position may be renewed depending on funding availability.

The incumbent would be expected to work with the supervisor and take a supporting role in performing various molecular diagnostic assays of invasive arthropods that threaten agriculture and/or natural resources, including the spongy moth, Japanese beetle, spotted lantern fly, etc. The incumbent will also work on molecular identification and genetic analysis of additional pest insects and their biological control agents. In this capacity, he/she will further participate in diagnostic assay development and evaluation, as well as other research-focused projects.

The incumbent is expected to keep detailed laboratory notes and be able to analyze/report preliminary data.

Strong teamwork skills, organization skills, and communication skills are essential for this position. The incumbent’s experience and education should include experience with insect handling, DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, real-time PCR methods, R analysis, etc. A background in molecular biology, evolutionary biology, and/or entomology is desired.