Research Associate - PestLens/OPEP (CIPM)

at  North Carolina State University

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree, or relevant Bachelor’s degree plus 3 or more years of independent research experience. May require terminal degree and licensure.

OTHER REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency to operate computers and use Microsoft Word, Excel, Adobe Acrobat professional, EndNote (or similar software programs).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Plant Pathology or related field, with a minimum of 3 years relevant job experience related to plant pathology.
• Experience with data management, developing pest risk assessments, or invasive or endangered species management.
• Experience in literature searching, data mining, citation management, and invasive or endangered species research.
• Superior organizational, analytical, and writing skills.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

CIPM is seeking a Research Associate to acquire, analyze, and report data on pests (primarily, exotic pests) of agricultural importance. The individual will engage in research in support of two USDA-APHIS-PPQ-PPRA (Plant Pest Risk Analysis) and CIPM cooperative activities related to the collection and analysis of invasive species data with application to early warning systems for plant health.

This position will require the individual to collect, analyze, synthesize, and communicate data on pests of agricultural importance and their hosts. The individual will:

• Conduct literature searches on invasive species and analyze and synthesize data to;
• Run a prediction model to support USDA-APHIS decision-making processes on prioritizing exotic pests.
• Produce a weekly web-based notification for an early warning system designed to help protect U.S. agriculture from exotic plant pests.
• Write highly technical pest reports and communicate the information to stakeholders.
• Work closely with members of a team, other teams, project and team leads, and stakeholders to complete the objectives of this role.
• Additional opportunities in the areas of pest risk analysis and international trade regulations may be available.
• Interface with Federal cooperators to determine project requirements as needed.

You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition (https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Other related duties as assigned.
  Qualifications