Ag-Biotech is looking for a highly motivated Laboratory Pathologist to lead and manage a Lab with focus on Vegetable Seed Health testing.  The individual will be responsible for setting up the Lab and functioning as Manager and Technical Lead.  The individual will work closely with management on laboratory set-up and operation.  Successful candidate will oversee the test platform, implementation of standardized industry test protocols, and insure accuracy of all test results.     

Position: Plant Pathologist – Laboratory Manager/Scientist

Job summary:

Plant Pathologist (Lab Scientist) will develop & implement protocols for routine seed health testing of all Vegetable species.  Individual should be proficient in pathology testing (PCR, DNA, Molecular, ELISA, testing & grow out validation) of seeds and seedlings. Candidate will participate in setting up Seed Health Lab, purchasing equipment, establishing test protocols and guidelines. Individual will participate in hiring of Laboratory staff and function as Lab Manager.  Individual will coordinate Lab and Testing procedures in accordance with all seed industry standards, (NSHS, ISHI, NAL, NAKT), and accreditations.    

Responsibilities:

• Manage all components of Plant Pathology Laboratory focused mainly on Vegetable Seeds.
• Planning, organization, coordination of all responsibilities with a Seed Health Laboratory & Greenhouse grow-out operation.
• Development of existing & new test protocol for all vegetable seed diseases in accordance with seed industry standards.
• Serve as lead Lab Pathology Technical Expert for bacteria, nematodes, viruses and fungi.
• Strong organizational skills to manage Lab and “Track & Trace” test environment for all seed samples and their results.
• Evaluating test results for accuracy and insure timely and proper posting and documentation of results.
• Participate with academic colleagues and experts in seed health testing to improve Lab proficiency.
• Conduct research and development projects related to seed health.
• Recruit and train Laboratory personnel to meet test demand.   
• Interact and collaborate with management team on organizational, budgetary and capital expenditures. 
• Participation on implementing QMS and Continuous Improvement within Lab.
• Some travel domestically or international for business and industry membership participation.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Plant Pathology with 3 years of Lab Supervision or MS in Plant Pathology with 5 years of experience in Laboratory.
• A strong background in Seed Pathology with interests in diagnostics required.
• Proficiency in DNA Based molecular pathology testing, ELISA, and Seed Wash Assay’s.
• Self-motivated, decisive candidate who can operate Lab with autonomy.
• Familiarity with Vegetable crop pathogens – Lab and Field environment.
• Familiarity with MS office and statistical software.
• Professional clear communication, verbal & written & strong organizational skills.   
• Ability to multitask, track and manage lab pathology.
• Works well with team environment.
• Shows personal initiative and able to portray and promote a positive image of the company’s vision, mission and values.

Working Conditions / Physical Demands

• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like lab coat, safety glasses, & gloves.
• Occasional light lifting of lab materials required, <50 pounds.
• Must be able to work under multiple environmental conditions, office, lab, greenhouse and field.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package.
• Employer will only consider applications from individuals who are legally eligible to work in the USA.
• Vacation, sick and holiday time off.

Applications

Applicants may submit resume and cover letter to: info@agbiotech.net