Quality Management Research Specialist

Quality Management Research Specialist

Anticipated Hiring Range:
Commensurate with Experience ($54,000 - $56,000)

Work Schedule:

Monday
- Friday / 8am - 5pm

Job Location:

Laurel, MD

Department:
Integrated Pest Management
- Research

The Center for Integrated Pest Management ( CIPM ) was established in 1991 to serve a lead role in technology development, program implementation, training, and public awareness for IPM at the state, regional, and national level. CIPM fosters the development and implementation of pest management programs. CIPM works to support and further Integrated Pest Management through the evaluation of emerging technologies, information management and dissemination, environmental stewardship, estimation of economic consequences, resistance management tools and systems, and integration of disciplinary expertise.

The Center manages grants programs for the USDA , develops regional and national priorities through workshops and stakeholder meetings, and develops and maintains large databases and database applications for USDA , EPA , and Ministries of Agriculture in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean.

• Childcare benefits
• Wellness & Recreation Membership
• Wellness Programs

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well‑being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

The Research Specialist (Quality Management Support Biologist) supports the Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program (PPDCP), a collaborative program with USDA APHIS that strengthens the nation’s ability to detect and identify plant pathogens that impact U.S. agriculture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the review, organization, and maintenance of technical documents, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and job aids.
• Assist with updates to scientific documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with established quality management standards.
• Maintain organized records and documentation to support program compliance and operational effectiveness.
• Provide research support for activities associated with plant pathogen diagnostics, certification processes, and laboratory quality initiatives.
• Apply basic knowledge of molecular and serological diagnostic methods to support technical reviews, literature searches, and program activities.
• Assist with the preparation and organization of reference materials, scientific resources, and program documentation.
• Maintain accurate research records, laboratory documentation, and electronic data files.
• Support data entry, organization, and review activities to ensure information is complete and accessible for program needs.
• Assist with compiling data and reports that support diagnostic certification and quality management activities.
• Collaborate with project leaders, quality management staff, and subject matter experts to support program priorities and deliverables.
• Utilize established systems and tools to manage documents, records, and program resources.
• Follow laboratory quality, safety, and compliance procedures while contributing to a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement.

If you are a detail‑oriented researcher who enjoys supporting scientific programs through accurate documentation, data management, and quality‑focused processes, we invite you to apply. Join our team and contribute to a program that strengthens plant health protection by supporting reliable diagnostic practices across laboratories.

Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

• Experience working with Quality Management Systems (QMS), in a laboratory, manufacturing, or regulatory environment.
• Professional technical writing, editing and proofreading experience.

• The candidate must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (green card) and is…