Plant Pathology Research Technician (C. Oliveira)

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Plant Pathology Research Technician to support field trials, disease assessments, data entry in ARM, and lab tasks across Peanut and Pecan Pathology programs.

Responsibilities include assisting with purchasing, inventory control, and coordinating trial schedules, under supervision of faculty and senior staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with field trials and data management preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Assist field, greenhouse, and lab activities for Peanut/PECAN pathology research.
• Support data collection, ARM data entry, and trial recordkeeping.
• Assist with purchasing, inventory management, and lab organization.
• Coordinate trial schedules and present findings under supervision.

Skills

Agronomy

Field research

Data management

ARM software

Lab techniques

Disease management

Communication

Time management

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Number:

S15693P

Working Title:

Plant Pathology Research Technician (C. Oliveira)

Department:

CAES-Plant Pathology

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

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:

09/02/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

10/01/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Please include CV, a list of references, and a cover letter.

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:

Research Tech-Life Science I

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

FTE:

1.00

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent

Position Summary:

The Research Technician will primarily support industry-sponsored and research field trials by assisting with planting, fungicide applications, disease assessments, harvesting, data entry in ARM, and keeping trial reports current. The position will also assist with purchasing, inventory management, laboratory organization, maintenance of fungal isolate collections, and greenhouse and laboratory activities as needed. The technician will follow UGA policies and procedures, participate in lab meetings and scientific discussions, and work with industry partners, other UGA programs, and members of the Peanut and Pecan Pathology Lab to support ongoing research activities. The technician will contribute to research projects through data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings under the guidance of faculty and senior research personnel.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of agronomy, field research, and laboratory techniques, with an emphasis on disease management
• Experience with data management, ARM software, field-trial planning, industry report preparation, and organization
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary research teams

Physical Demands:

• Work extended hours in the field under various weather conditions, such as, hot and humid conditions.
• Driving as needed to perform job duties
• Heavy lifting

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):

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:

• Assist with laboratory purchasing activities, including preparing orders, tracking supplies, and maintaining inventory records.
• Support laboratory organization and cleanliness by maintaining workspaces, equipment, and materials in accordance with established procedures.
• Provide assistance with fungal isolate collection maintenance and help coordinate trial schedules and related research activities.

Percentage of time:

40

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assist with field, laboratory, and greenhouse activities in support of Peanut and Pecan Pathology Laboratory research projects.
• Support data collection, recordkeeping, and reporting activities associated with ongoing research studies and field trials.
• Provide assistance with the preparation, implementation, and maintenance of research trials and related laboratory operations.

Percentage of time:

25

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Support the development and implementation of AI research initiatives under the direction of the supervisor.
• Contribute to AI research projects through data collection, organization, analysis, and presentation of results.
• Assist with data collection and preparation for AI-related research projects.

Percentage of time:

20

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assist the supervisor with maintaining research Data and records in ARM; Supporting data entry, organization, and quality checks in ARM for research and industry-sponsored projects.
• Assist with the preparation of industry reports and related documentation.
• Contribute to data analysis activities and summary reporting as directed by the supervisor.

Percentage of time:

15

Contact Details:

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

Recruitment Contact Name:

Dr. Clemen Oliveira

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]