PCS Lab Technician

Position Summary

The San Luis Valley Research Center is part of a network of 7 research centers (9 sites) throughout the state. The first San Luis Valley Research Center was established in 1888 on 200 acres of state land near the Rio Grande River, seven miles east of Del Norte. The research center has a continuing commitment to the people of the San Luis Valley (SLV) and the State of Colorado to provide research information, conduct extension education and seed certification programs.

Beginning in 1940, the principal research activity was focused on selecting potato varieties adaptable to the region. In 1979 a potato breeding program was initiated to complement the selection activity. Research on cultural practices including disease and pest studies was also conducted. In the early 1920s, the Colorado Certified Seed Growers Association initiated a seed certification program located on the Colorado State University campus which was co‑located at the SLVRC in 1964.

Conduct laboratory test protocols after training (e.g., run ELISA tests or specific stages during a PCR test), make media, maintain lab equipment, perform general record keeping, and assist with laboratory activities. Duties will be performed under the direction of the PCS Lab Supervisor, PCS Assistant Manager, and PCS Assistant Lab Supervisor. Assist the Disease Lab Supervisor in disease testing and laboratory activities, including PCR and ELISA testing and bio‑assay plants for major potato viruses and other disease issues, and any other testing techniques as deemed necessary by the PCS lab supervisor.

Maintain the facility, trucks, and storage crates in a clean, organized manner.

• Must be a hard working, self‑starter and able to lift 50lb sacks of potatoes.

• Experience in potato field leaf sampling and preparing potato leaf and tuber samples for ELISA and/or PCR samples, and irrigated potato/field crop production is desirable.
• Evidence of attention to detail and ability to develop and maintain high quality records and other documentation is desirable.
• Interest and ability to work, collaborate, and communicate in a team environment with individuals of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

$16 – $19

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.