Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant – Mitchum Lab

University of Georgia; Kentucky; On-site; USD 15,911 - 22,661; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant to support laboratory and greenhouse research related to plant diseases. Responsibilities include assisting with planting, processing for nematode resistance, lab maintenance, and greenhouse care. Ideal candidates should be self-motivated, enthusiastic, and interested in plant sciences. Prior experience with plants is a plus but not mandatory. The position offers a starting salary of $14.00 per hour. Email inquiries can be directed to Melissa Mitchum at [e-mail].

Qualifications

• Prior experience working with plants is desirable but not required.
• Manage time well and be reliable.
• Enthusiastic and eager to learn.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planting and processing of germplasm screening for nematode resistance.
• Assist with lab maintenance and chores.
• Care for plants in greenhouses and growth chambers.
• Prep, steam, and dispose of soil.

Skills

Interest in crop/plant science

Excellent verbal communication

Self-motivated

Organized

Detail-oriented

Job description

Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant – Mitchum Lab

The Plant Nematology Lab Assistant position will support laboratory and greenhouse research related to plant diseases and the biology of their causal agents under the direction of a faculty member and/or lab manager/post‑docs/graduate students. Duties include assisting with planting, processing of plants for screening for nematode resistance, lab maintenance, and greenhouse plant care.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist with planting and processing of germplasm screening for nematode resistance, including labeling, packaging, seed germination, harvesting seed, filling pots with soil, soaking and processing roots for nematode analysis. (40% of time)
• Assist with lab maintenance and chores, including washing and sterilizing pots, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, disposing of plant material. (40% of time)
• Assist with plant and/or pathogen care by watering plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends. (10% of time)
• Assist with prepping, steaming, and disposal of soil. (10% of time)

Minimum Qualifications

• Prior experience working with plants is desirable, but not required.
• Interest in crop/plant science, plant pathology, plant biology, soil science, or a related field.
• Self‑motivated, organized, detail‑oriented, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.
• Manage time well and reliable.
• Excellent verbal communication skills are required.

Physical Demands

Must have multi‑hour blocks of availability Monday‑Friday and availability on weekends on a rotational basis to water and care for plants. Must have the ability to stand for prolonged periods of time and work under warmer temperatures of a greenhouse setting while doing technical tasks.

Posting Details

• Classification Title: Student Assistant
• FLSA: Non‑Exempt
• Job Code: FTE .50
• Anticipated Start Date: 08/15/2025
• Salary: $14.00 per hour
• Location: Athens, Georgia
• Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact: Melissa Mitchum, Professor, Department of Plant Pathology and Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics
Email: [e-mail]

Applicant Documents

• Required Documents: Resume/CV
• Optional Documents: Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, List of References with Contact Information

EEO 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.