Molecular Biologist (Project Support Specialist)

As a Molecular Biologist (Project Support Specialist), you will support pest identification with the use of molecular technology; provide support to senior Molecular Biologists (Plant Pathologists) in finding cryptic pests and identifying virtually all pests, and assist them with special projects involving the use of molecular biological technology in the disciplines of plant pathology, mycology, bacteriology, virology, and nematology.

The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity.

The duties may include, but are not limited to:

Assists in the compilation and management of the datasets of molecular sequences of plant pests from port interceptions and domestic surveys that threaten U.S. agriculture.

Assumes technical operational responsibility for planning, performing, and recording diagnostic laboratory activities within the quarantine programs.

Oversees diagnostic activities related to many pests intercepted at ports of entries or from domestic surveys which require molecular identification.

Performs classical, real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCR) sequencing using the Sanger method and sequence analysis to identify pests from port interceptions and domestic surveys.

Modifies written Agency protocols in order to improve the identification of pests of various life stages as applied to taxonomy of pests of regulatory significance.

Assists other scientists in developing, adapting, and implementing new laboratory protocols for identifying pests of regulatory concern.

Assists the Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program in the deployment and use of molecular technology in relation to identification activities.