The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking a plant geneticist for their station in EPCOT. The job description is below, or you can view the full requirements and apply on LinkedIn.
Summary
This position is located in Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Appalachian Fruit Research Station, Functional Genomics and Breeding Research Unit with a duty station in Walt Disney World – EPCOT Center, in Orlando, Florida.
The incumbent will research biotechnology related to genetic improvement of selected tree fruit species with modified plant growth and development, fruit quality, and/or disease resistance to develop superior germplasm and cultivars and enable production.
Responsibilities
- Perform transformation for selected tree fruit species and produces transgenic plants.
- Verify the transformation, integration, editing, and/or expression of the introduced genes. This will include marker enzyme assays, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification of introduced genes.
- Initiate and maintain tissue cultures of selected fruit tree species.
- Utilize and optimize microbial-mediated plant growth promotion in tissue culture conditions.
- Knowledge of and skill in professional scientific writing and presentation skills to prepare reports, conduct presentations, and give tours.
- Conduct analyses of data, applying standard statistical methods. Prepare data in both tabular (i.e., tables, graphs, charts) and narrative form, noting any inconsistencies where the data appear inconclusive.
- Ensure that laboratory equipment is available when needed, properly calibrated and in working order.
- Perform maintenance and repair of equipment and arranges for service as needed.
- Assist in the procurement, installation of and training for new equipment.
- Provide support for communication and outreach efforts associated with Epcot visitor activities.
- Skill in oral and written communication in order to lead tours of the facilities and explain basic biotechnology concepts to visitors.
- Use multi-media platforms to disseminate biotechnology concepts.
Work Environment: Most research will be conducted in a laboratory environment. The incumbent will occasionally work in the greenhouse. The incumbent must use care when handling toxic chemicals and other hazardous substances which require special precautions and conscientious use of safety equipment. As required, the incumbent must follow prescribed safety procedures and wear protective clothing and gear. Proper safety equipment will be available and health monitoring is provided.
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