Plant Diagnostic Clinic Research Specialist

We are seeking a Lab Research Specialist with expertise in pest and disease diagnosis to join the Plant Diagnostic Clinic.

About the role

The position is responsible for maintaining lab accreditation, ensuring diagnostic data is uploaded to the National PDIS database, and developing and following standard operating procedures and protocols. The role includes overseeing lab safety, equipment maintenance, and assisting with grant-funded research in plant pathology and seed disease analysis. Additional duties may involve scouting and monitoring pests of import/export importance, maintaining supplies, and assisting with Master Gardener Helpline diagnostics.

This is a .80 FTE position (30-hour work week) with the potential to increase to 1.0 FTE (37.5-hour work week) if funding is available. Some work may be conducted outside of normal business hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Maintain lab accreditation and ensure timely upload of diagnostic data to the National PDIS database.
• Develop and follow standard operating procedures and protocols in the lab.
• Oversee lab safety and maintenance of diagnostic equipment.
• Assist in grant-funded research in plant pathology and seed disease analysis, including grant writing, reports, and papers.
• Scout and monitor pests of import/export importance, depending on funding.
• Maintain and order lab supplies.
• Assist with Master Gardener Helpline diagnostics.
• Provide functional supervision of student interns in the Clinic.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in plant pathology or a related field.
• Three or more years of experience with plant disease diagnostics.
• Ability to identify and diagnose fungal and bacterial pathogens, abiotic issues, insect and weed problems in both lab and field settings.
• Ability to work independently and travel to/from the worksite.
• Flexibility to work hours as demanded by projects, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and data analysis software.
• Effective interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience uploading data to the National Repository and familiarity with NPDN Lab Accreditation.
• Familiarity with seedborne disease assessment.
• Knowledge of APHIS scouting protocols for import/export pests and diseases.

Pay

Anticipated pay range: $46,400–$54,400 at .80 FTE (equivalent to $58,000–$68,000 at 1.0 FTE).

Schedule

• Standard hours: 30 hours per week (.80 FTE) with potential to increase to 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) if funding is available.
• Some work may occur outside of normal business hours (8:00 AM–4:30 PM).
• Occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required.

This position is contingent on continued funding and requires a background check. It is part of the UVMSU union.