GNSN Postdoctoral Research Assistant

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia's State Botanical Garden of Georgia invites applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead conservation genetics research supporting native plant restoration across the southeastern United States. This role focuses on genetic tools to inform seed transfer guidance, restoration planning, and ecosystem resilience.

You will design and implement research on population genetics, collaborate with the herbarium, mentor students, publish results, and contribute to

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications Position Summary. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia at the University of Georgia is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead conservation genetics research.

Responsibilities

• Molecular Laboratory Work - 50%: Conduct DNA, RNA, protein, and carbohydrate extractions; Perform PCR and electrophoresis; Conduct fragment analysis and allele calling; Maintain laboratory quality control standards.
• Research - 30%: Conduct advanced analyses using R and specialized software; Interpret genetic data to inform seed transfer zone refinement; Lead and contribute to peer-reviewed publications; Prepare annual and contribute to annual reports.
• Field Work - 10%: Collaborate with federal and state partners to access plant populations; Prepare collection permits and documentation; Lead tissue collection and monitoring field trips; Ensure proper tissue sampling and storage protocols.
• Training and development - 10%: Supervise undergraduate and graduate students; Support student-led research projects; Attend and present research at conferences and professional meetings.

Skills

R

Job description

Posting Details

Position Details

Posting Number G/R34597P

Working Title GNSN Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Department PSO-State Botanic Garden of GA

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

College/Unit/Department website https://botgarden.uga.edu/ Employment Type Employee Additional Schedule Information

Full-time schedule with hours at SBG, in the lab and in the field.

Advertised Salary

Commensurate with Experience

Anticipated Start Date

10/01/2026

Posting Date

08/28/2026

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must have current work authorization to work in the US.

Location of Vacancy

Athens Area

EOO 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, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities

Molecular Laboratory Work - 50%

• Conduct DNA, RNA, protein, and carbohydrate extractions.
• Perform PCR and electrophoresis.
• Conduct fragment analysis and allele calling.
• Maintain laboratory quality control standards.

Percentage of time 50 Duties/Responsibilities

Research - 30%

• Conduct advanced analyses using R and specialized software.
• Interpret genetic data to inform seed transfer zone refinement.
• Lead and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Prepare annual and contribute to annual reports.

Percentage of time 30 Duties/Responsibilities

Field Work - 10%

• Collaborate with federal and state partners to access plant populations.
• Prepare collection permits and documentation.
• Lead tissue collection and monitoring field trips.
• Ensure proper tissue sampling and storage protocols.

Percentage of time 10 Duties/Responsibilities

Training and development - 10%

• Supervise undergraduate and graduate students.
• Support student-led research projects.
• Attend and present research at conferences and professional meetings.

Percentage of time 10

Position Details

Classification Title Post-Doctoral Associate AD FLSA Exempt UGA Job Code FTE 1.00

Minimum Qualifications Position Summary. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia at the University of Georgia is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead conservation genetics research supporting native plant restoration across the southeastern United States. This position is funded through a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cooperative Agreement focused on strengthening the scientific foundation of native seed sourcing and restoration decision-making. This role will also collaborate with the University of Georgia Herbarium faculty and staff to complete lab work and research. This role focuses on advancing genetic tools to inform seed transfer guidance, restoration planning, and long-term ecosystem resilience. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will design and implement research that evaluates population-level genetic variability across native plant species, ground-truth Provisional Seed Transfer Zones, and supports science-based recommendations for responsible plant material movement. The position integrates field sampling, molecular laboratory research, bioinformatics, and applied restoration science. The successful candidate will lead publication development, mentor students, collaborate with federal and state partners, and contribute to grant development that expands the conservation genetics program. This role provides an opportunity to shape regional and national restoration strategies by ensuring genetically appropriate native plant materials are used in ecological recovery efforts.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure,