Project Summary: Administration The NMSU Food Safety Laboratory (FSL) will work towards achieving FERN objectives by ensuring that trained staff are able to participate in FERN activities such as proficiency tests, evaluation of new methodologies and analysis of surveillance and emergency outbreak samples. The NMSU FSL proposes to improve our current Quality Management System by hiring a quality manager to work with the NMSU FSL director, staff and APHL to achieve and maintain ISO 17025 accreditation of our laboratory and demonstrate that we operate an effective management system, are technically competent and that our testing results are technically valid. The NMSU FSL plans to improve its Quality Management System to ensure to proper administration, management, and coordination of the proposed projects. The NMSU FSL Director will coordinate the scheduling of projects to avoid conflicts and maximize efficiency. The Director will work with the Quality Manager to ensure all relevant records and reports are accurate and complete. The NMSU FSL Food Microbiologists will be responsible for preparing for and conducting experimental activities, recording data, and preparing reports. Undergraduate Student employees will work with the Food Microbiologists to support project activities.