This is a hands-on, lab and greenhouse-based position to support our bionematicide and soilborne biofungicide research group. In this role you will work under the direction of a plant pathologist to establish and improve testing protocols, evaluate candidate bionematicide and spoil-applied biofungicide products, and maintain critical nematode and pathogen colonies. Through this work you will contribute to the discovery, evaluation, and development of the next generation of sustainable microbial and natural product-based biopesticides.
Principal Responsibilities:
- Maintain pathogen and/or nematode colonies, following USDA APHIS PPQ containment guidelines as appropriate.
- cultivate plants in the greenhouse and lab.
- Assist in running laboratory and greenhouse bioassays. Prepare plants, petri dishes, pests and treatments for assay set up. Apply treatments, inoculate plants with pathogens/nematodes, and collect data.
- Contribute to general lab maintenance, including agar media preparation, cleaning, autoclaving lab waste and supplies, and washing dishes.
- Ensure safe work practices are followed.
- Record experiments and enter data into Electronic Lab Notebook System
Required Skills
- 0-2 years of related experience. Experience with plants, insects, pathogens, greenhouse or laboratory operations is high desired,
- Track record of flexibility and adaptability.
- Must excel in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, be well organized, and demonstrate excellent time management skills.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately without losing focus.
- Must be able to follow directions, communicate findings, and ask questions when needed.
- Willingness to perform physical labor in greenhouse environments.
Education
An AS or BS in Biology or a related field is preferred.
Travel
<5%
