Horticulture Research Associate (Chu)

University of Georgia; Tifton, Northern (GA, KY); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia invites applications for the Horticulture Research Associate (Chu) to support the blueberry breeding program across multiple sites, including UGA farms in Alapaha, Alma, and Tifton. The role involves coordinating and executing breeding and genetics research, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.

The candidate will supervise student workers, maintain lab safety, manage inventories, and help develop grant proposals to sustain the program’s objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.
• Knowledge of blueberry breeding, tissue culture, hybridization, molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with data analysis, reporting, and scientific manuscript preparation.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage breeding and genetics research projects across multiple field, greenhouse, and laboratory locations.
• Conduct tissue culture, artificial hybridization, softwood propagation, DNA/RNA extraction, sequencing library construction, and marker-assisted selection.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data to support breeding program goals; draft scientific manuscripts and grant proposals.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science

2 years professional experience

Job description

Horticulture Research Associate (Chu)

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.

Posting Details
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. About the College/Unit/Department College/Unit/Department website
Posting Type External Retirement Plan TRS or ORP
Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule 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
Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 11/01/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants Please include your resume, cover letter and a list of references.
Location of Vacancy Tifton Area

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.

Position Information 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

Preferred Qualifications 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. Additional responsibilities include supervising student employees, providing training to new personnel, maintaining laboratory operations, managing chemical inventories and supplies, and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and training requirements.

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

Responsibility Checks

• 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

Percentage of time 30

• 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

• 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 15

• 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

• 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

• 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 Information

Recruitment Contact Name Dr. Ye Chu

Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail]