Extension Program Specialist

Apply now (https://secure.dc4.pageuppeople.com/apply/674/gateway/default.aspx?c=apply&lJobID=531351&lJobSourceTypeID=796&sLanguage=en-us) Job no: 531351

Work type: Staff Full-Time

Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

Categories: Agriculture Operations

Department: 60190000 - AG-PLANT PATHOLOGY

Classification Title:

Extension Program Specialist

Job Description:

Apply technical knowledge of molecular and serological diagnostic services for training PDC extension clientele. Deployment of validated protocols for routine diagnostic applications for PDC clientele will require technical molecular proficiency as well as calculation of cost-recovery for services, to maintain CAS requirements for fee-for-service operations. Train diagnostic professionals in the selection and use of molecular diagnostic protocols in use in the PDC. This will require writing, modifying, and disseminating standard operating procedures compliant with NPDN’s accreditation system and will integrate the NPDN’s professional development system and tools for online (via Learn Upon) and in-person training. Collaboration with the NPDN’s Professional Development is expected to achieve the training goals, including development of presentations, proficiency standards, assessments, and module deployment.

Develop, adapt, and deploy a service for other extension or low-resource labs for molecular controls and nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and sequence analysis. Requires fluency with nucleic acid and protein extraction, amplification/detection, and analysis including but not limited to handling DNA and RNA, PCR, ELISA, LAMP, RPA, and sequence analysis through single-gene sequencing and multi-gene sequence concatenation (MLSA). Develop, maintain, and ensure quality control of positive and internal controls through collaboration with DAVN and Washington State Department of Agriculture grant-funded projects. Coordinate documentation and publication of a molecular service catalog through DAVN. Traveling to diagnostic labs to establish and provide training on new service.

Develop and analyze data from appropriate measurement mechanisms for assay validation and apply NPDN Core Accreditation standards in the program.

Identify external funding sources and assist PDC Director in writing, applying for, and managing grant funds to support the molecular program.

Develop and deliver reports for state, regional, and national networks through participation in FPDN, SPDN, NPDN, and DAVN calls and meetings.

Expected Salary:

$50,000/year

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

MS or PhD with one year of experience implementing molecular diagnostics for plant pathogens, assay validation, and/or 17025 laboratory accreditation.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

This is a Time-Limited position.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required:No

Advertised: 30 Apr 2024 Eastern Daylight Time

Applications close: 16 May 2024 Eastern Daylight Time