Research Scholar - DEPP

Posting Information

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Posting Number PG194497EP

Internal Recruitment Internal Recruitment No

Working Title Research Scholar - DEPP

Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience

Work Schedule

Job Location Laurel, Maryland

Department Entomology and Plant Pathology

About the Department

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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The Department seeks to hire a Research Scholar to support a cooperative agreement 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 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 detection of exotic plant viruses, with 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.

Development of Pathogen Detection Methods:
Experimental Research, Data Analysis, and Reporting (80%)

• 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, inventory management, greenhouse plant maintenance, and routine lab maintenance.
• Identify technical challenges, recommend improvements, and implement solutions to enhance assay quality and performance.
• Contribute to scientific publications, technical reports, and draft manuscripts; co-present research findings with…