Conservation Genetics Lab and Greenhouse Technician

University of Georgia; Kentucky; On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Conservation Genetics Lab and Greenhouse Technician in Kentucky. This role involves assisting with the growth of pine seedlings, conducting weekly disease surveys, and performing data entry. Key qualifications include an interest in forest health, teamwork abilities, and knowledge of Microsoft Excel. Preferred experiences include greenhouse work and image analysis software. The position may require extended periods of physical work in a greenhouse environment.

Qualifications

• Interest in forest health and physiology.
• Ability to work well in a team and independently with limited supervision.
• Attention to detail and a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Responsibilities

• Assist with growing pine seedlings in the Whitehall Greenhouse.
• Inoculate seedlings with the pathogen Lecanosticta acicola.
• Conduct weekly surveys of disease severity and seedling health.
• Collect weekly digital scans of roots and use image analysis software.
• Use LICOR and pressure chambers to measure plant physiological traits.
• Perform data entry and general organization.

Skills

Interest in forest health and physiology

Ability to work well in a team

Attention to detail

Knowledge of Microsoft Excel

Tools

Image analysis software

Job description

Conservation Genetics Lab and Greenhouse Technician

Position Summary: The technician will work with Dr. Bothwell, graduate students, and other research technicians to investigate how adaptations to drought and disease vary across southern pine species and genotypes (loblolly and longleaf).

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with growing pine seedlings in the Whitehall Greenhouse.
• Inoculate seedlings with the pathogen Lecanosticta acicola (brown spot needle blight).
• Conduct weekly surveys of disease severity and seedling health.
• Collect weekly digital scans of roots and use image analysis software.
• Use LICOR and pressure chambers to measure plant physiological traits such as photosynthesis and stomatal conductance.
• Perform data entry and general organization.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Interest in forest health and physiology.
• Ability to work well in a team and independently with limited supervision.
• Attention to detail and a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with greenhouse work.
• Experience with image analysis software.
• Background in plant physiology.

Physical Demands

The position requires working on your feet for extended periods and being comfortable in greenhouse temperatures that may reach 90–100°F during midsummer. Driving may be required for job duties.

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.