Agricultural Science Research Technician Full-time Job

This position is located in Beltsville, Maryland. Work is done at a lab setting. There are one or two possible positions. As an Agricultural Science Research Technician your duties may include but are not limited to:

Assisting the supervisory research plant pathologist or a professional scientist by performing routine laboratory and greenhouse tests. For example, independently applying specific and well-established methods and techniques related to culturing bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens. This involves collecting the organisms and samples of diseased host tissue or extracting cultures from standard source.

Assisting the supervisor research plant pathologist or a professional scientist by applying treatments involving plant diseases such as dipping the plant parts or soaking, atomizing and painting various preparations on plant foliage and roots, injecting inoculation of pathogens.

Providing routine maintenance in growth chambers and greenhouses by operating and observing conditions (light, air, temperature) so that they can report when conditions need adjusting.

Utilizing advanced knowledge in computers in order to analyze samples received by other professional scientist.

Preparing reports for publication in computer program as designated.

Handling data from the greenhouse and in some cases assisting the scientist to complete reports for publication in a peer review.

The person should be very careful with the samples.

Assisting professional staff with data entry. Responsible for data logging including weighing soil and plants for proper data measurements.

The major duties listed above represent the major duties of the position and are not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent may be asked to perform additional related duties. The use of safety equipment will be required as appropriate, as well as, compliance with laboratory procedures relating to safety.

We are a team of dedicated professionals working to support American agriculture. We serve the American people through sound science and product stewardship, ensuring Americas agricultural resources are the best in the world. We promote U.S. agricultural productivity and competitiveness and support the American economy while ensuring environmental protection and public safety. We facilitate trade, ensure food safety, and protect plant health. We seek people of diverse backgrounds to contribute to our shared mission. If you want to make a difference, we encourage you to consider joining the APHIS team.