Horticulture Research Associate (Chu)

Georgia 4-H; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Horticulture Research Associate to support the blueberry breeding program across field and laboratory settings. The role coordinates activities at UGA farms in Alapaha, Alma, and Tifton, leading breeding and genetics work.

The successful candidate will perform tissue culture, hybridization, molecular techniques, phenotyping, and data analysis, contributing to manuscripts and grant proposals. A bachelor’s degree and two years of experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related science field and 2 years of professional experience.
• Ability to coordinate and conduct multi-site field and laboratory research.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage blueberry breeding and genetics projects across field, greenhouse, and lab.
• Perform tissue culture, DNA/RNA work, sequencing library prep, and marker-assisted selection.
• Analyze data, report results, and contribute to manuscripts and grant proposals.

Skills

Strong organizational skill

Detail oriented

Effective communication

Teamwork skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related science field

Job description

Posting Number:

S15872P

Working Title:

Horticulture Research Associate (Chu)

Department:

CAES-Horticulture

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.

Posting Type:

External

Retirement Plan:

TRS or ORP

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:

Full Time

Additional Schedule Information:

Schedule is to be set by the Supervisor.

Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date:

10/08/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

11/01/2026

Location of Vacancy:

Tifton Area

EEO Policy 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.

Classification Title:

Res Associate-Life Science II

FLSA:

Exempt

FTE:

1.00

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience

Position Summary:

The Research Associate supports the University of Georgia blueberry breeding program by coordinating and conducting research activities across multiple field and laboratory locations, including grower trial sites, UGA research farms in Alapaha and Alma, and the UGA Tifton campus. This position leads and assists with breeding and genetics research involving field data collection, tissue culture, hybridization, molecular biology techniques, phenotyping, image analysis, and marker-assisted selection. The Research Associate is responsible for managing research projects, analyzing and reporting data, preparing scientific manuscripts and grant proposals, and contributing to peer-reviewed publications.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Strong organizational skill
• Detail oriented
• Effective communication
• Teamwork skills

Physical Demands:

• Standing
• Walking
• Lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Working in hot, humid conditions for extended periods of time

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:

No

Is this a Position of Trust?:

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:

No

Does this position require a P-Card? :

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy:

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy:

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.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and manage breeding and genetics research projects involving field, greenhouse, and laboratory-based experiments
• Conduct specialized research activities including tissue culture, artificial hybridization, softwood cutting propagation, DNA/RNA extraction, sequencing library construction, and marker-assisted selection
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using phenotypic, molecular, and image-based techniques to support breeding program goals

Percentage of time:

30

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Analyze research data and prepare technical reports summarizing project findings, outcomes, and recommendations
• Draft and contribute to scientific manuscripts, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications related to blueberry breeding and genetics research
• Assist with the development of grant proposals, project reports, budgets, and supporting documentation to secure and maintain research funding

Percentage of time:

30

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and monitor blueberry breeding research activities across grower trial sites, UGA research farms, and the UGA Tifton campus to ensure timely project completion
• Schedule and oversee field research operations, including tissue sampling, phenology observations, disease evaluations, and fruit harvest activities
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and industry partners to facilitate communication, data collection, and research program objectives across multiple locations

Percentage of time:

15

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Coordinate purchasing and inventory management of laboratory supplies, reagents, equipment, and research materials.
• Maintain accurate chemical inventories, safety records, and laboratory documentation in accordance with university and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor laboratory safety practices and ensure compliance with safety protocols, inspections, and required training standards.

Percentage of time:

15

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Train, and supervise student assistants and temporary staff engaged in field and laboratory research activities.
• Monitor completion of required training programs and ensure personnel compliance with university policies, research procedures, and safety requirements.

Percentage of time:

10

Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name:

Dr. Ye Chu

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]