Position Function:
Advance the Mississippi sweet potato industry by engaging in meaningful sweet potato research in the lab, with a focus on virus-testing, molecular diagnostics, tissue culture propagation, and foundation sweet potato production. The Laboratory Coordinator will report to Mississippi State University - Pontotoc Ridge-Flatwoods Branch Experiment Station, located near Pontotoc, MS.
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The Pontotoc Ridge-Flatwoods Branch Experiment Station is located in Pontotoc, MS. The Pontotoc Branch is 1 of 6 Clean Plant Centers in the United States as part of the National Clean Plant Network (nationalcleanplantnetwork.org). This 640-acre research facility is a premier information source for the Mississippi sweetpotato industry and contributes research results throughout the world. Resources include office and staff, four greenhouses, wet/dry labs, and 640 acres of land resources. The Pontotoc Branch experiment station is located near the main sweetpotato production area in Mississippi and is in constant communication with innovative growers and other scientist across the United States.
Area of Specialization:
Molecular Biology, Molecular Diagnostics, or Sweetpotato.
Anticipated Appointment Date:
November 2025.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Specifically, the incumbent is expected to:
1. Perform DNA and RNA extractions from plant tissue for use in virus detection assays.
2. Conduct quantitative PCR (qPCR) and other molecular assays for the identification and
quantification of sweetpotato viruses.
3. Assist in the development, optimization, and validation of diagnostic tools.
4. Maintain and propagate sweetpotato tissue culture under aseptic conditions.
5. Record, organize, and analyze experimental data with precision.
6. Maintain and operate laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with regulatory
and biosafety standards.
7. Support the preparation of technical reports, publications, and presentations.
8. Collaborate with research staff and contribute to project planning and problem
solving.
9. Train and assist students, interns, or technicians as needed.
10. Other responsibilities and duties as assigned by supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Pathology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology or related field.
Experience: One (1) year of experience similar to duties described above.
Licensure: Valid driver’s license and the ability to safely operate motor vehicles.
Preferred Qualifications:
Master of Science (MS) degree in Molecular Biology or related science, experience in plant molecular diagnostics, experience with additional molecular methods (RT-PCR, isothermal amplification, sequencing), experience analyzing data and preparing manuscripts.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Strong understanding of molecular biology principles, including DNA/RNA structure, function, and extraction techniques.
Knowledge of quantitative PCR (qPCR), reverse transcription, and other nucleic acid–based diagnostic assays.
Understanding of aseptic techniques and plant tissue culture methods.
Knowledge of laboratory safety, biosafety, and regulatory compliance practices.
Working knowledge of data management, statistical analysis, and scientific reporting.
Proficiency in molecular laboratory techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and reagent preparation.
Skill in maintaining and propagating plant tissue cultures under sterile conditions.
Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and optimize assay performance.
Competence in using laboratory instruments, maintaining calibration, and ensuring data accuracy.
Strong organizational skills for managing samples, experiment records, and data files.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for preparing technical reports, publications, and presentations.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
Ability to learn and implement new techniques or technologies as required.
Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
Ability to maintain high standards of precision, accuracy, and documentation.
Ability to train and mentor students, interns, or technicians in laboratory methods.
Ability to contribute to problem-solving discussions and project planning in a dynamic research environment.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
At times this position will require physical activity including lifting more than 40 lbs, standing or sitting for extended periods of time, limited work in greenhouse and field, and the ability to wear proper protective equipment under adverse conditions.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Please submit a current resume, cover letter/letter of application, and transcripts (with social security numbers redacted). Please provide contact information for three professional references.
For additional questions, please contact Dr. Lorin Harvey at lh1853@msstate.edu.
Screening Date:
November 10, 2025, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
