Plant health diagnostic laboratory scientist – Uberlândia/MG

MG | Minas Gerais
Efetivo (CLT)
Biólogo
Biotecnologista
Engenheiro Agrônomo

Atribuições e Responsabilidades

• Perform routine and specialized diagnostic tests to identify plant pathogens affecting crops using microscopy, serological assays, PCR, and other molecular techniques for accurate pathogen detection;
• Collect, isolate, culture, and properly store diverse plant pathogens to build and preserve the organization’s pathogen collection for long-term viability and usability;
• Establish and maintain a comprehensive database for cataloging pathogen samples, including metadata such as host range, geographical origin, and genetic characteristics;
• Enhance and optimize diagnostic and inoculum production protocols for new and emerging plant pathogens;
• Validate diagnostic procedures to ensure accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability in pathogen detection;
• Consult breeders and researchers to understand breeding objectives and prioritize disease diagnostic needs;
• Provide timely diagnostic results and recommendations to support breeding decisions aimed at developing disease-resistant crop varieties;
• Train and educate staff on proper sampling techniques, diagnostic methodologies, and pathogen handling protocols;
• Lead and execute large-scale inoculum production, ensuring that the amount, viability, timing, and representativeness meet the required standards, reflecting both natural and current pathogen populations;
• Implement quality assurance practices to ensure diagnostic tests meet established standards and regulatory requirements;
• Efficiently manage resources to meet production goals, including personnel, budget, laboratory/facility usage, scalability, and cost-efficiency in inoculum production.

Requisitos/Perfil Desejado

• PhD in Plant Pathology with demonstrated experience in disease diagnosis using microscopy, serological and biochemical assays, PCR and other molecular techniques for accurate pathogen detection and identification;
• Extensive background in pathogen morphology and disease symptomatology;
• Demonstrated experience working with row crops such as corn and soy is a plus;
• Results orientation, agility, and attention to detail;
• Strong background in plant pathology and demonstrated skills in lab operations such as pathogen identification, pathogen preservation, and inoculation for virulence/aggressiveness assays;
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills;
• Strong record of innovation and applying new technology in product design and development.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English and Portuguese (written and spoken). Expected to participate in forums where these 2 languages will be used exclusively;
• Availability to live in Uberlândia – MG.