Essential Job Duties

CIPM is looking to hire a Research Assistant to support the cooperative agreement with the APHIS PPQ S&T Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program (PPDCP). The PPDCP certifies diagnosticians for detection and identification of regulated plant pests that threaten U.S. agriculture. The program develops reference plant and nucleic acid material to evaluate competency of diagnosticians through proficiency testing (PT), provides training, and supports diagnostic methods validation processes. Program activities are part of the Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostic Laboratory (PPCDL) functions.

The program labs are located in Laurel, Maryland.

In this role, you will support the development and validation of proficiency testing panels and diagnostic controls used to assess diagnostician competency for regulated plant pests and pathogens. Working closely with the Project Leader, you will conduct laboratory testing, prepare plant and nucleic acid materials, analyze data, and maintain laboratory records that support certification activities and program objectives. You will also contribute to laboratory operations, quality management processes, and collaboration with federal partners to help ensure the delivery of accurate, reliable, and scientifically sound diagnostic resources that protect U.S. agriculture.

Key responsibilities fall within the following functional areas and are supported by strong attention to detail, collaboration, and interest in applied laboratory research.

Laboratory Research & Diagnostic Support

• Develop, produce, and validate proficiency testing panels and diagnostic controls for regulated plant pests and pathogens.
• Prepare plant, culture, DNA, and RNA materials for testing and panel development.
• Conduct molecular and serological testing using PCR, real-time PCR, ELISA, and related laboratory methods.
• Evaluate sample quality, stability, and homogeneity to support program requirements.

Data Analysis & Documentation

• Maintain laboratory records and program documentation in accordance with approved procedures and quality standards.
• Analyze and organize data generated through laboratory testing and validation activities.
• Prepare reports and supporting documentation for certification and program needs.

Laboratory Operations & Quality Management

• Support daily laboratory operations through equipment maintenance, inventory management, and resource coordination.
• Operate specialized laboratory equipment and maintain laboratory supplies and facilities.
• Perform all activities in accordance with the PPCDL Quality Management System (QMS), approved SOPs, and laboratory safety requirements.

Certification Program Support & Collaboration

• Support diagnostician certification activities, diagnostic methods validation, and proficiency testing distributions.
• Collaborate with federal partners to support project objectives and cooperative agreement requirements.
• Contribute to the successful delivery of accurate, timely, and compliant program activities.

Other Work/Responsibilities

• Interfacing with Federal cooperators to determine project requirements.

Minimum Experience/Education

Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology or other relevant disciplines and with at least 3 years of relevant professional experience.

All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Required Qualifications

• Experience in molecular biology of microorganisms; genomic or plant DNA/RNA extraction; conventional and real-time PCR and Reverse Transcription-PCR analysis; gel electrophoresis; data management.
• Attention to details, good time management and record keeping, and excellent technical skills.
• Understanding of good laboratory practices (GLP) and quality management system (QMS) principles.
• Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently, working knowledge of Microsoft Office, good written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with plant pathogens is preferred and working in biosecurity regulations.

Required License or Certification

• The candidate must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (green card) and is expected to pass NCSU and USDA background checks. No other emigration statuses are acceptable.
• Valid driver's license or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start.