Horticulture Research Associate (L. Oliveira)

UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia's CAES-Horticulture unit seeks a Research Associate to lead field and laboratory research projects across southern Georgia, coordinating with faculty, graduate students, Extension personnel, and grower collaborators.

The role includes planning field trials, handling agricultural machinery and precision-agriculture tools, collecting data, analyzing results, and preparing reports and outreach materials. A limited-term appointment may renew based on funding.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute field and laboratory research activities across southern Georgia.
• Coordinate with faculty, graduate students, staff, Extension personnel, and grower collaborators.
• Conduct soil, plant, and environmental sampling and data analysis.
• Prepare reports, publications, and outreach materials.
• Provide training and oversight for students and temporary personnel.

Skills

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Cert

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerP

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Number S15859P

Working Title Horticulture Research Associate (L. Oliveira)

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 10/06/2026

Open until filled Yes

Closing Date 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.

Position Information

Classification Title Res Associate-Life Science I FLSA Exempt FTE 1.00

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science

Preferred Summary

Preferred Qualifications Position Summary

Job Description

The Research Associate independently manages and executes field and laboratory research projects throughout southern Georgia, coordinating with faculty, graduate students, research staff, Extension personnel, and grower collaborators to implement research activities. Responsibilities include planning and overseeing field trials; utilizing agricultural machinery and precision agriculture technologies; collecting soil, plant, and yield data; analyzing experimental results; and preparing research reports, scientific publications, and summaries of findings. The position contributes to final reports and develops educational and Extension materials, including bulletins, circulars, presentations, and outreach publications.

The Research Associate provides training and leadership to students and temporary personnel, coordinates data collection and analysis activities, procures research supplies in accordance with University policies, and maintains program vehicles, farm equipment, and research technologies. The position promotes compliance with safety standards, and exercises independent judgment to ensure the successful completion of research and extension objectives.

This is a limited-term appointment expected to end 1 year after the start date. Renewal or extension beyond the initial term is anticipated but not guaranteed and will depend on project needs, the availability of funding, and job performance. The position may be renewed on an annual basis, contingent upon continued grant support.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies

• Ability to obtain and hold a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
• Ability to use Microsoft Office software packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Physical Demands

• Work extended hours in the field under hot and humid conditions
• Lift at least 50 lbs
• Driving as needed to perform job duties

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes

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) No

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

• Manage and execute field and laboratory research activities in support of specialty crop and agricultural production systems research.
• Coordinate and collaborate with faculty, graduate students, research staff, and grower cooperators to implement research projects at UGA field plots and commercial farms throughout southern Georgia.
• Conduct and oversee soil, plant, and environmental sample collection, yield assessments, and other research data collection activities while ensuring accuracy and data integrity.
• Maintain research records and support the successful achievement of project objectives and deadlines.

Percentage of time 30

• Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare research reports, summaries of findings, technical documents, and manuscripts for scientific publication.
• Contribute to the development of final project reports for sponsoring agencies and assist in disseminating research results through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly outputs.
• Develop and support Extension and educational materials, including bulletins, circulars, presentations, brochures, and other outreach resources for stakeholders and industry audiences.

Percentage of time 30

• Provide training, guidance, and day-to-day oversight for graduate students, student workers, and temporary personnel engaged in field and laboratory research activities.
• Coordinate research project implementation, including experimental design, data collection protocols, and research procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
• Supervise and support the collection, management, and analysis of research data, ensuring accurate documentation and interpretation of results.

Percentage of time 20

• Oversee purchasing and procurement activities with respect to research supplies, equipment, and materials in accordance with University policies and procedures to support research and Extension activities.
• Manage inventories and coordinate purchasing activities to ensure timely availability of resources needed for field and laboratory projects.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of program vehicles, farm equipment, and research tools to support safe and efficient research operations.

Percentage of time 10

• Maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification and support the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for research and data collection activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of research, Extension, and program objectives.

Percentage of time 10

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Recruitment Contact Name Dr. Luan Oliveira

Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail]

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*) .