PCSU FOREST PATHOLOGIST – ID# 19594

PCSU FOREST PATHOLOGIST – ID# 19594. 

Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit.  Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU), located at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry on the island of Hawai‘i.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

MONTHLY SALARY:  Salary commensurate with qualifications. 

DUTIES:  Develops, designs, conducts, and evaluates experimental research documenting all aspects of a complex major forest pathogen detection, evaluation, prevention, and control program for diseases such as Rapid Ohia Death (ROD). Utilizes Microsoft Word and Excel, database programs, and mapping systems to conduct experimental research. Experimental research includes field and laboratory experiments towards determining the means and conditions by which these pathogens develop and spread – both locally and regionally. Analyzes data through statistical methods.  Techniques involve (but are not limited to): isolation, culturing and maintenance of pathogen cultures and culture collections; use of traditional (cultural, morphological), serological [Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Immunostrips] and nucleic acid [polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, and sequencing] techniques for pathogen identification with certainty; inoculation of trees for pathogenicity studies; disease ratings; and determination and evaluation of management techniques that might be effective.  Researches and investigates the mechanisms by which pathogens develop and spread. Identifies issues that could arise and determines solutions to combat ROD.  Develops current, effective, environmentally safe, and economically sound disease management alternatives that are consistent with specific land management objectives where reduction of pathogen effects is desirable. Assesses status and efficacy of forest disease prevention, and adjusts strategies and methodologies. Occasionally travels out-of-state and internationally.  Presents data at national and international meetings. Publishes results in peer-reviewed, scientific and trade journals. Participates in grant and fellowship applications.  Cultivates good relationships with funding agencies to develop opportunities for continued funding. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:  PhD from an accredited college or university in Forest or Plant Pathology, or closely related field.  EXPERIENCE:  At least (3) years of post-graduate experience designing and implementing research methods, conducting field diagnosis and management of forestry pathogens. Experience including one to three (1-3) years of experience with forest ecology and plant pathology that includes collecting, processing, and analyzing fungal samples using both culturing techniques and molecular DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) approaches in the laboratory.  ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:  Proficient knowledge of invasive threats to Hawaiian ecosystems, including plants and plant pathogens. Knowledge of clean laboratory microbial culturing techniques and molecular DNA tests. Working knowledge of Hawai‘i Island’s geography. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel, database programs and mapping systems (e.g., ArcView), and Global Positioning System (GPS). Proficient knowledge with ELISA and PCR techniques.  Ability to design statistically valid forest pathology trials, and analyze and interpret data using relevant statistical methods.  Ability to track project progress and strategically plan management actions to align with deliverables and project needs.  Excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral, written, and communication skills to deal with complex issues associated with pathology and diverse community interests. Ability to determine the identity of agent(s) causing trees to be unhealthy. Competent in statistics, scientific experimental design and implementation, data collection, and analysis. Ability to follow and execute complex disease sampling, processing, and analysis instructions in a laboratory environment; and to accurately record biological data.   Ability to complete research independently and to work as part of a team.  Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.  Post Offer/Employment Condition: Must possess Certification in First Aid/CPR (or be able to obtain the certificate following the training provided within three (3) months from date of hire) and maintain throughout duration of employment. Must be able to complete pesticide safety course within twelve (12) months from date of hire. Must complete the online Hazard Communication training immediately after hire or no later than employee’s initial exposure to hazardous chemicals.  PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Ability to work in forest settings under adverse weather conditions (e.g., hot and dry or cold and wet) and hike over rough terrain to access remote field sites. POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:  As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies and procedures.  Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).  

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:  Experience in pathogen/host interactions, plant disease identification, disease ecology, epidemiology, management, modeling, statistics, or related research areas are preferred. Experience utilizing molecular techniques for plant pathogen identification and quantification.  Experience working in tropical forest or island ecosystems. 

INQUIRIES:  Michelle Miyata 956-9512 (Oahu). 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Supervisory References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or (808)956-0872. 

CLOSING DATE:  January 24, 2020. 

RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.

Equal Opportunities Employer – Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran.