Hort Rubio-Ames PhD Grad Student

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia’s Small Fruit Research and Extension Lab invites applications for a PhD research assistantship in the Department of Horticulture at the Tifton campus. The incumbent will focus on blueberry production and cultural management practices, with topics flexible within the broader scope of blueberry production.

Ideal candidates will have background in agronomy or horticulture, experience in plant physiology or related research, and a readiness to conduct field work outdoors in

Qualifications

• Experience with plant physiology and research.
• Background in agronomy or horticulture preferred.
• Understanding of project design, data entry, statistics, and technical writing preferred.
• Willingness to learn new skills, positive attitude, strong work ethic.
• Willingness to work outdoors in heat and humidity preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct blueberry production research in field settings.
• Assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting of results.
• Engage in outreach and extension activities related to findings.
• Maintain field plots and manage data entry and organization.

Skills

Plant physiology

Research experience

Agronomy

Horticulture

Job description

Position Summary

The Small Fruit Research and Extension Lab is seeking a resourceful and motivated individual interested in horticulture, especially blueberry production and management, to fill one PhD research assistantship in the Department of Horticulture at the University of Georgia’s Tifton campus. Potential research topics are flexible but will have a general focus on blueberry production and cultural management practices (fertilization, pruning, and water management), and alternative blueberry production systems. The candidate chosen for the position will have the opportunity to cultivate the necessary skills in the field as well as gain outreach and extension experiences, and overall professional development relevant to future careers in the industry and academia.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification

Experience in plant physiology and research.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

Agronomy, horticulture, plant physiology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution is preferred. Additionally, previous field and work experience relevant to the potential research topics is preferred. A good understanding of project design, data entry, statistical analysis, and technical writing is preferred. Interested candidates should be open to learning new skills, have a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic. A willingness to work outdoors in the heat and humidity is preferred.

Physical Demands

Bending, lifting up to fifty pounds, working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Operating and Financial Responsibilities

No.

Driving Requirement

Yes.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name: Zilfina Rubio‑Ames

Recruitment Contact Email: Zilfina.Rubio‑[e-mail]

Legal and Equal Employment Statements

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]).

The University System of Georgia’s 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 of 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.

Background Investigation

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. The applicant may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.