Plant Pathology Research Tech — Crop Protection Lab

Gowan Company; Yuma (AZ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Gowan Company’s 8th Street Laboratory, in collaboration with University of Arizona Facilities, seeks a Plant Pathology Research Technician to support crop protection efficacy testing across laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings.

The role involves setting up bioassays, maintaining plant materials, assisting in IPM practices, calibrating equipment, documenting data, and contributing to R&D reports with the Research Manager. A related degree and 1–2 years of experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Biology, or related field.
• 1–2 years of experience in lab, greenhouse, or field environments.
• Experience with plant bioassays and microbiological techniques.
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Set up and score in vitro and in vivo bioassays for plant pathogens, weeds, and insects.
• Maintain plant materials for laboratory and greenhouse trials.
• Support sowing, transplanting, irrigating, and fertilizing plants.
• Raise and monitor experimental units in lab, greenhouse, and field settings.
• Prepare pathogen growth media and inoculate plants as required.
• Clean and sanitize laboratory and greenhouse facilities.
• Maintain inventory of chemicals and lab materials; dispose of waste safely.
• Collect, prepare, and verify samples and supporting records.
• Document observations and data for research trials; update progress to manager.
• Monitor greenhouse environmental controls to maintain growing conditions.
• Follow biosafety and quarantine protocols for regulated materials.

Skills

Organizational skills

Observation skills

Time management

Work in demanding environments

Heavy lifting

PPE training

Teamwork

MS Office

Weekend availability

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Biology, or related

Tools

Microsoft Office

ARM

Statistix

Job description

Gowan Company’s 8th Street Laboratory, in collaboration with University of Arizona Facilities, seeks a Plant Pathology Research Technician to support crop protection efficacy testing across laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings.

The role involves setting up bioassays, maintaining plant materials, assisting in IPM practices, calibrating equipment, documenting data, and contributing to R&D reports with the Research Manager. A related degree and 1–2 years of experience are preferred.