Zoonotic Pathogen Research Technician

U.S. Department of Agriculture; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Field Organization, Plains Area, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, KS, conducts high-containment research on zoonotic and emerging pathogens. The role involves performing laboratory experiments, preparing and analyzing biological samples, and maintaining specialized equipment in support of critical defense research.

Duties include adapting procedures, operating complex lab systems, recording data, and ensuring strict safety and quality

Responsibilities

• Adapts, modifies, or develops techniques and procedures to satisfy research project needs under established guidelines.
• Operates, maintains, calibrates, and modifies complex or specialized laboratory equipment and automated systems used for test and evaluation procedures.
• Performs full range of laboratory techniques using a variety of specialized equipment
• Utilizes computerized data storage and manipulation systems for recording and processing research information.
• Maintains biological materials, including live tissues or cells, according to established protocols.
• Performs routine statistical comparisons of experimental variables.
• Provides technical support during setup of laboratory, field, or greenhouse studies.
• Recognizes data trends indicating possible error and flags them to higher-level staff.
• Identifies equipment irregularities and initiates basic troubleshooting steps.
• Records data in multiple formats (spreadsheets, lab notebooks, electronic files).
• Responds to routine inquiries from scientists regarding data or sample handling.

Job description

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Field Organization, Plains Area, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, KS, conducts high-containment research on zoonotic and emerging pathogens. The role involves performing laboratory experiments, preparing and analyzing biological samples, and maintaining specialized equipment in support of critical defense research.

Duties include adapting procedures, operating complex lab systems, recording data, and ensuring strict safety and quality