Research Associate

Ugajobsearch; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia seeks a Research Associate to purify and characterize complex plant carbohydrates, focusing on pectic polysaccharides. You will isolate pectins using chromatography, generate variants with carbohydrate-active enzymes, and analyze their composition and structure while mentoring students and contributing to project reporting.

Responsibilities include experimental design, data interpretation, and presenting results in meetings and publications, with a collaborative lab

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 2 years of professional experience.
• Degree in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry is preferred.
• Expertise in carbohydrate analysis and carbohydrate active enzymes.

Responsibilities

• Structural analysis of complex carbohydrates from RG-II to identify features controlling dimer self-assembly and glycoenzyme reactions (30% time).
• Glycoform generation and characterization of RG-II with enzymatic/chemical modifications and analyses (30% time).
• Write manuscripts and contribute to grant proposals; prepare reports, attend meetings; prepare presentations. (20% time)
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students (20% time).

Skills

Carbohydrate chemistry

Chromatographic purification

Structural characterization

Experimental design

Data interpretation

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Degree in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

Mass spectrometry

HPAEC-PAD

GC-MS

Job description

Research Associate

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: S16000P

Working Title: Research Associate

Department: VPR-Complex Carbohyd Rsch Ctr

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 Date 11/02/2026 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 05/01/2027 Special Instructions to Applicants Location of Vacancy Athens 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 .

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

Degree in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry. Expertise in carbohydrate analysis and carbohydrate active enzymes.

Position Summary

This position will purify and characterize complex plant carbohydrates, with an emphasis on pectic polysaccharides. The Research Associate will isolate pectins using chromatographic methods, generate structural variants using carbohydrate active enzymes, analyze their composition and structure and dimerization potential. The Research Associate will also contribute to mentorship of students, experimental design, data interpretation, and reporting for the research project.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Knowledge of carbohydrate chemistry, including the structure of plant cell wall polysaccharides.
• Skill in chromatographic purification and analysis of carbohydrates (e.g., size exclusion, ion exchange, HPAEC - PAD , GC-MS).
• Skill in structural characterization of complex carbohydrates using techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.
• Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments independently while following laboratory safety protocols.
• Ability to analyze and interpret experimental data and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to communicate results clearly in writing and in oral presentations, and to work collaboratively in a research team.

Physical Demands

• Some lifting of lab materials.

Driving Responsibilities

No

Position of Trust

Yes

Financial Resources

No

P-Card

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

• Structural analysis. Experimental work in structural analysis of complex carbohydrates from rhamnogalacturonan II (RG-II) glycoform variants to identify the structural features controlling dimer self-assembly and glycoenzyme reactions. Percentage of time 30
• Glycoform generation and characterization. Enzymatic and chemical modification of RG-II, with characterization by HPLC , mass spectrometry, glycosyl composition, and glycosyl-linkage composition analyses. Percentage of time 30
• Write manuscripts and contribute to grant proposals, prepare quarterly and annual reports, attend lab meetings and project meetings. Prepare PowerPoint presentations and posters for conferences and meetings. Percentage of time 20
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate student. Percentage of time 20

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name Kristie Huff

Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*)

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents