Plant Pathology Research Technician - Temporary

Position Information

A part time/temporary position for a plant pathology research technician is available at the Williston Research Extension Center. The primary research projects will involve developing of qPCR tools for measuring soil pathogens and beneficial rhizobia and evaluating the effect of cropping systems on soil health. The projects involve laboratory, greenhouse and small plot research. Competency in laboratory assays (DNA extraction, qPCR, microbial isolation and sub-culturing etc.) is highly desired. This is a grant funded, temporary position.

Description, Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist with laboratory, greenhouse and field research related to plant pathology, beneficial microorganisms and soil health
• Independently conducting laboratory assays including DNA extraction, qPCR, gel electrophoresis
• Growth, maintenance and storage of fungal and bacterial cultures
• Operation of software for data collection, analysis and presentation (Microsoft office suite, Adobe, BioEdit/ApE/Sequencher, JMP, SAS, R)
• Prepare, plant, maintain and collect data for greenhouse and field experiments
• Assist with organization and cleanliness of the lab workspace
• Other duties as assigned for successful completion of research projects
• Communicate and work cooperatively with co-workers, supervisor and all REC personnel

Requirements & Competencies:

• BS in plant pathology, microbiology, plant science, biology, agronomy or related fields or equivalent work experience.
  
• Demonstrated research experience in a related laboratory environment.
• Excellent inter-personal and oral and written communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors for the maintenance of small plot experiments and data collection.
• Experience with qPCR, DNA extraction, and gel electrophoresis
• Experience with aseptic technique and handling of microorganisms (preferred)
• Experience working with plants in a greenhouse/outdoor setting (preferred)
• Previous experience with working with chemical hazards, driving small plot equipment, working outdoors under adverse environmental conditions, working in dusty conditions during harvest is preferred but not required.

Work Location:

• Williston, ND

Hours & Schedule:

• Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Please include within application if you are currently or have in the past 12 months been employed with NDSU, the North Dakota University System or any other North Dakota State agency. If so, include which agency/department, as well as your how many hours you work a week and in the past 12 months.

Employment Eligibility

NDSU determines employment eligibility through the E-Verify system: What is E-Verify? New employees to NDSU must present specific identification to determine their employment eligibility no later than their first day of work. To view the identification required, please see the List of Acceptable Documents . You will be required to have one item from List A OR one item from List B and List C.