Plant Pathogen Molecular Biologist — Diagnostic Specialist

US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 56,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in Laurel, MD seeks an authority in molecular and biochemical methods to diagnose plant pests and to identify plant pathogens with advanced techniques. You will handle final identifications and support U.S. agriculture through rigorous lab work.

The role requires expertise in virology, microbiology, and molecular biology, along with collaboration on research projects and clear scientific communication to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
• Combination of education and experience: post high school education with courses equivalent to a major (24 semester/36 quarter hours) in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resources management, chemistry or related disciplines, PLUS appropriate experience or additional coursework.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an authority in molecular and biochemical methods for diagnosis of plant pests and provide final identification of plant pathogens and other plant pests.
• Apply specialized state-of-the-art molecular and biochemical techniques for detecting, identifying, and differentiating plant pests, especially plant pathogens that threaten U.S. agriculture.
• Plan and manage projects and collaborate with other scientists to address research and technological needs related to plant pathogens and plant health.
• Use molecular and serological methods including PCR, RT-PCR, isothermal amplification, nucleic acid sequencing, data analysis, ELISA, and related techniques.
• Analyze, summarize, and communicate technical data to academic and professional audiences, both orally and in writing.

Skills

Virology

Plant pathology

Molecular biology

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related

Tools

PCR

RT-PCR

ELISA

Nucleic acid sequencing

Isothermal amplification

Job description

US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in Laurel, MD seeks an authority in molecular and biochemical methods to diagnose plant pests and to identify plant pathogens with advanced techniques. You will handle final identifications and support U.S. agriculture through rigorous lab work.

The role requires expertise in virology, microbiology, and molecular biology, along with collaboration on research projects and clear scientific communication to diverse audiences.