New

Research Assistant: Plant Disease Diagnostics

North Carolina State University

$50,000

life insurance, flexible benefit account, paid time off

United States, Maryland, Laurel

Jun 22, 2026

Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194719EP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	Research Assistant: Plant Disease Diagnostics
Anticipated Hiring Range	$50,000
Work Schedule	Core Business Hours Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, hours vary based on research needs.
Job Location	Laurel, MD
Department	Integrated Pest Management - Research
About the Department	The Center for Integrated Pest Management ( CIPM) was established in 1991 to serve a lead role in technology development, program implementation, training, and public awareness for IPM at the state, regional, and national level. CIPM fosters the development and implementation of pest management programs. CIPM is an Industry/University Cooperative Research Center, which works to support and further Integrated Pest Management through the evaluation of emerging technologies, information management and dissemination, environmental stewardship, estimation of economic consequences, resistance management tools and systems, and integration of disciplinary expertise. The Center manages grants programs for the USDA, develops regional and national priorities through workshops and stakeholder meetings, and develops and maintains large databases and database applications for USDA, EPA, and Ministries of Agriculture in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits	As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
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. If you want an opportunity to contribute directly to high-impact diagnostic science that supports national plant health and agricultural protection efforts we encourage you to apply.
Other Responsibilities	Interfacing with Federal cooperators to determine project requirements.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience	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.
Other 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(s) or Certification(s)	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.
Valid NC Driver's License required	Yes
Commercial Driver's License required	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	06/22/2026
Anticipated Close Date	7/14/2026; if posting is active; we are still accepting and reviewing applications
Special Instructions to Applicants	Applicant required documents: Cover Letter, CV/Resume, Contact Information for Professional References.

Position Details

Position Number	00112107
Position Type	EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)	1.00
Appointment	12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather	Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events	Mandatory - Medical Emergencies
Department ID	113810 - Integrated Pest Management - Research
EEO	NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.