Temporary Research Assistant

The Center for IPM is seeking a researcher to acquire, analyze and report data on pests (primarily, exotic pests) of agricultural importance. The individual will engage in research in support of 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. The successful applicant will conduct literature searches on invasive species, manage data and citations, as well as enter the information into a secure database system. This position will focus on expanding the knowledge base of the Global Pest and Disease Database ( GPDD), which in turn assists other projects and applications such as PestLens and New Pest Response Guidelines.

The analyst will research, gather and document data, and enter the data into the GPDD database on various pests like arthropods, plant pathogens, and weeds which will aid to USDA- PPRA and other pest response groups to exclude, respond to or recover from exotic pests that may enter, establish, spread or impact the United States. This position may require the person to work closely with a team. The work will involve performing literature searches, reviewing and interpreting highly technical scientific information and government reports, corresponding with subject matter experts, and analyzing information to produce pest profiles within the GPDD database. The person will also provide support to the GPDD IT team during the development of GPDD 2.0 by assisting in the restructuring of databases, creating new data input forms, testing new user interface features, updating existing data as needed to ensure a smooth transition of data from one database to the next.

Additional opportunities in the areas of pest risk analysis and international trade regulation may be available for highly qualified applicants.

Skills and qualifications include meticulous work habits, attention to detail, excellent reading comprehension and analytical skills, and demonstrated ability to work independently. The ability to communicate well in English (both orally and in writing) is required for this position. The ideal candidate will have completed a graduate degree in life sciences, environmental sciences or a related area. Computer competence is required.

Other duties as assigned; the incumbent may be tasked with duties complementary to the overall research objectives.

NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.