Research Technician
Job Description
This position will work in the research laboratory of Dr. Tracy Leskey, located at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station, Kearneysville, WV in direct collaboration with Dr. Chris Bergh, Alson H. Smith Agriculture Research and Extension Center, Winchester, VA. The group studies the development of monitoring and management tools for invasive and persistent native pests of temperate fruit production. The candidate will work collaboratively with other members of the group, visiting scientists, and growers. Main responsibilities are to ensure daily operation of the lab, including execution and maintenance of laboratory experiments, field plots in experimental and commercial orchards, insect colonies, and laboratory, semi-field, or field-based behavioral bioassays.
Required Qualifications
Experience with entomology, tree fruit production, and working with brown marmorated stink bug, spotted wing drosophila, spotted lanternfly and plum curculio; Working knowledge of basic lab safety practices and sterile techniques; Excellent communication, interpersonal, organizational and problem-solving skills; Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; Detail oriented with good record keeping skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications: BA/BS in biological, physical or behavioral sciences or related coursework; Either formal or informal training in insect culture maintenance and tree fruit production; Experience with ethological software packages, and familiarity with behavioral bioassay techniques.
Pay Band
3
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience
Close Date
August 24, 2020
Additional Information
The successful Candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check
Must have a driver's license check
Must have an acceptable and safe driving record
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Chris Bergh at cbergh@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.