Biological Sciences Technician Location: Appalachian Fruit Research Station, USDA ARS Kearneysville, WV

This position offers an exciting opportunity to learn about and participate in the full spectrum of plant breeding. Under the direction of a USDA-ARS grape breeder, this technician will assist in diverse activities to develop new grape varieties that are downy mildew resistant and are suitable for growing in the Mid-Atlantic U.S.

Primary responsibilities:
• Participate in crossing grapes from diverse germplasm, labeling, harvesting, and extracting seeds.
• Conduct visual disease evaluation and support data collection by lab and vineyard imaging robots. • Assist in site preparation, planting, and grapevine maintenance and training. • Contribute to laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments as required including collecting and processing plant samples for genetic analysis and trait analysis.
• Prepare inventories for the lab, greenhouse, and field supplies and fill the stocks as required.

What we need:
• Will consider applicants with Associate Degrees as well; Bachelor’s degree in biology, genetics, or a related field; or at least five years of relevant horticultural experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving.
• Excellent record keeping and ability to track projects and samples with minimal supervision.
• Teamwork, flexibility, and an aptitude for working with a diverse group.
• Must have U.S. citizenship, a valid driver’s license, and be willing to travel.
• Ability to work outside in hot environments with bending and lifting to 60 pounds. Additional qualifications that would be helpful:
• Experience in viticulture, plant pathology, and/or plant breeding.
• Previous experience working in a greenhouse and laboratory.

To apply for this opportunity: please submit a cover letter and CV (or resume) to Dr. Surya Sapkota at sds322@cornell.edu.

Preferred start date: April 3, 2023. Wages will be commensurate with experience.