PCS Lab Technician

Colorado State University•Center, CO

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The San Luis Valley Research Center is part of a network of 7 research centers (9 sites) throughout the state. The first San Luis Valley Research Center was established in 1888 (the same year the main station at Fort Collins was established) on 200 acres of state land near the Rio Grande River, seven miles east of Del Norte. The research center has a continuing commitment to the people of the San Luis Valley (SLV) and the State of Colorado to provide research information, conduct extension education and seed certification programs. Beginning in 1940, the principal research activity was focused on selecting potato varieties adaptable to the region. In 1979 a potato breeding program was initiated to complement the selection activity. Research on cultural practices including disease and pest studies was also conducted. In the early 1920s, the Colorado Certified Seed Growers Association initiated a seed certification program located on the Colorado State University campus which was co located at the SLVRC in 1964.

Requirements

Must be a hard working, self starter.
Needs to be able to lift 50lb sacks of potatoes.

Nice To Haves

Experience in potato field leaf sampling & preparing potato leaf and tuber samples for ELISA and/or PCR samples.
Experience in irrigated potato/field crop production is desirable.
Evidence of attention to detail and ability to develop and maintain high quality records and other documentation is desirable.
Interest and ability to work, collaborate, and communicate in a team environment with individuals of diverse, socioeconomic backgrounds.

Responsibilities

Conduct certain laboratory test protocols after training (i.e., run ELISA tests or conduct specific stages during a PCR test).
Make media.
Maintain lab equipment.
Perform some record keeping.
Perform other types of general lab procedures.
Assist the Disease Lab Supervisor in disease testing and laboratory activities.
Assist in disease testing assays required by the Colorado Certified Seed Potato rules and regulations including: PCR testing as well as ELISA testing and bio-assay plants for the major potato viruses and other disease issues, and any other testing or testing techniques as deemed necessary by PCS lab supervisor.
Maintain the facility, trucks, and storage crates in a clean, organized manner.