GRA Jacobson
The University of Georgia
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Job summary
University of Georgia in Georgia is seeking a Graduate Research Assistant to participate in field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies on insect ecology and integrated pest management. The role emphasizes experimental design, sampling, data collection, and interpretation of results, with opportunities to prepare manuscripts and present findings.
The position requires a strong background in entomology or related sciences, experience with statistical analysis tools, and the ability to travel for
Qualifications
- B.S. degree in Entomology, Biology, Ecology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, or a closely related discipline for MS applicants.
- An MS degree in a related discipline for PhD applicants.
- Strong interest in insect ecology, integrated pest management, agricultural research, and applied problem-solving.
- Experience with experimental design, field or greenhouse experiments, insect sampling, identification, or population monitoring.
- Familiarity with statistical analysis and data management software such as R, SAS, or similar programs.
Responsibilities
- Independently conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory research investigating the ecology, population dynamics, and integrated management of economically important cotton insect pests.
- Collect, organize, manage, and statistically analyze research data; interpret results and evaluate pest management strategies.
- Prepare scientific manuscripts, research reports, and extension publications to communicate research findings.
- Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and coordination of research experiments, including insect sampling, population monitoring, and collaborative research activities.
- Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings at scientific conferences, extension meetings, and other professional events.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Position Details
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 Employment Type Employee Additional Schedule Information Advertised Salary Anticipated Start Date 01/01/2027 Posting Date 11/03/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants Location of Vacancy Tifton 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 hrweb@uga.edu.
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.
Independently conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory research investigating the ecology, population dynamics, and integrated management of economically important cotton insect pests.
- Collect, organize, manage, and statistically analyze research data; interpret results and evaluate pest management strategies.
- Prepare scientific manuscripts, research reports, and extension publications to communicate research findings.
- Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and coordination of research experiments, including insect sampling, population monitoring, and collaborative research activities.
- Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings at scientific conferences, extension meetings, and other professional events.
Position Information
Classification Title Graduate Research Assistant FLSA Exempt UGA Job Code FTE .387 Minimum Qualifications Position Summary
The student selected will participate in field, greenhouse, and laboratory research, including experimental design, insect sampling and identification, population monitoring, evaluation of pest management strategies, data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of research findings. The student will be expected to develop and conduct independent research appropriate to their degree level, prepare scientific manuscripts, and communicate research findings through presentations at scientific meetings and extension/outreach activities. The student will be expected to complete all required coursework and degree requirements in a timely and satisfactory manner. Specific research objectives will be developed based on program priorities, available funding, and student interests.
- B.S. degree in Entomology, Biology, Ecology, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Sciences, or a closely related discipline for M.S. applicants. An M.S. degree in a related discipline for Ph.D. applicants.
- Strong interest in insect ecology, integrated pest management, agricultural research, and applied problem-solving.
- Previous research experience in entomology, ecology, crop protection, integrated pest management, or related agricultural sciences is preferred but not required.
- Experience with experimental design, field or greenhouse experiments, insect sampling, identification, or population monitoring.
- Familiarity with statistical analysis and data management software such as R, SAS, or similar programs.
- Demonstrated critical thinking, scientific curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to learn new research methods and technical skills.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, including attention to detail, accurate recordkeeping, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate scientific information effectively to various audiences.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, troubleshoot problems, exercise sound judgment, and seek guidance when appropriate.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively, professionally, and respectfully with faculty, staff, students, extension personnel, and agricultural stakeholders.
- Dependability, adaptability, accountability, and commitment to research integrity and high-quality scientific work.
- Ability to follow established research protocols, maintain accurate and organized research records, and contribute to the collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of scientific data.
- Willingness to develop proficiency in experimental design, statistical analysis, scientific writing, and presentation of research findings.
- Ability to adapt to changing research priorities, environmental conditions, and unexpected challenges associated with field-based agricultural research.
- Willingness to travel to research sites throughout Georgia and potentially other southeastern states.
- Conduct field research in agricultural environments under variable weather conditions, including high temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.
- Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and navigating uneven terrain or agricultural fields.
- Lift, carry, and transport field sampling equipment, research supplies, and materials weighing up to 35 pounds
- Perform repetitive tasks requiring manual dexterity, including insect sampling, specimen handling, laboratory procedures, and data collection.
- Work in field, greenhouse, and laboratory environments where exposure to insects, plants, soil, dust, and other common agricultural environmental conditions may occur
- Perform research activities that may involve early morning, evening, or occasional weekend work during periods of intensive field sampling
- Travel to research locations, including occasional overnight travel, as required by research activities.
- Driving as needed to perform job duties
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
- Recruitment Contact Name Dr. Alana Jacobson
- Recruitment Contact Email Alana.Jacobson@uga.edu
- Recruitment Contact Phone
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