Research Scholar - DEPP

Posting Number

PG194497EP

No

Research Scholar - DEPP

Commensurate with Experience

Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm

Laurel, Maryland

Entomology and Plant Pathology

As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a varied portfolio of programs in teaching, research and extension components. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension.

Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands‑on learning opportunities using the latest technologies.

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What we offer:

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• 12 Holidays Each Year
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Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part‑Time or Full‑Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the NC State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) seeks to hire a Research Scholar to support a cooperative agreement (AP25PP
QS&T00C172) focused on the development of advanced molecular diagnostics for plant quarantine pathogens. The position will contribute to the project titled Artificial intelligence, real‑time PCR, and CRISPR methods for detecting Tomato yellow leaf curl virus exotic species in support of the APHIS PPQ safeguarding mission. Under the general guidance of a Senior Scientist, the Research Scholar will lead laboratory‑based research to develop, optimize, and validate AI‑assisted real‑time PCR and related molecular assays for the detection of exotic plant viruses, with an emphasis on Tomato yellow leaf curl virus.

The incumbent will work independently to design experiments, analyze data, document results, and contribute to reports, publications, and technology transfer efforts in support of APHIS PPQ diagnostic and safeguarding activities.

• Design, develop, optimize, and validate molecular diagnostic assays for quarantine plant pathogens, particularly plant viruses.
• Perform DNA extraction and purification from plant materials, including seeds and leaf tissues.
• Conduct in silico analyses of pathogen genomes, primers, and probes to support assay design and optimization.
• Optimize real‑time PCR reaction conditions and evaluate assay performance characteristics, including precision, accuracy, diagnostic sensitivity, and specificity.
• Develop and validate synthetic reaction controls for molecular assays.
• Prepare detailed work plans; execute experimental protocols; and generate validation, progress, and final project reports.
• Maintain accurate experimental records in official laboratory notebooks and electronic data systems; analyze datasets and generate figures, summaries, and reports.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment, including Quant Studio 5 Real‑Time PCR instruments, PCR thermocyclers, microplate readers, tissue grinders, and freeze‑dryers.
• Perform general laboratory duties, including preparation of culture media and buffers,…