Research Associate-Plant Pathology

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Research Associate in Athens, Georgia, to lead research in fungicide resistance mechanisms affecting brassica and cucurbit crops. This position requires strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant science field.

Responsibilities include conducting experiments, data analysis, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and grant proposal preparation. The position is limited-term for two years, with potential for renewal based on project needs.

Qualifications

• 2 years of professional experience in a related field.
• Understanding of fungicide sensitivity and genomics.
• Experience in data quality control and statistical interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on fungicide resistance in Alternaria sp.
• Investigate resistance mechanisms in Colletotrichum sp.
• Design and implement laboratory experiments on fungicides.
• Present results at conferences and prepare scientific manuscripts.
• Serve as project manager for the Sustainable Anthracnose Management project.

Skills

Understanding projects related to fungicide resistance

Knowledge of writing published articles

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Highly organized with attention to detail

Strong analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in related science field

Job description

Position Summary

The Research Associate position is housed in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Georgia's Tifton Campus. The individual in this role will be expected to be an accomplished investigator to maintain a vigorous research program in the area of detection and understanding mechanism of fungicide resistance in Alternaria sp in brasssica, Colletotrichum sp, and Fusarium sp in cucurbits. The overall research goal is to utilize techniques not limited to classical mycology, fungicide sensitivity assays, genomics and bioinformatics. The Research Associate will design and coordinate field and greenhouse experiment‑based assays to test hypotheses. In addition to conducting research, this position will work closely with key interdisciplinary teams across multiple states to evaluate the cultural practices that reduce Altermaria losses in broccoli. The successful candidate will assume a leadership role in data collection and analysis, as well as in the preparation of manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals. Additionally, they will be expected to present research findings at local and national conferences and in the writing and preparing of grant proposals for submission.

This is a limited‑term position expected to end two years 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Understanding and appreciation of projects related to fungicide resistance, fungicide sensitivity assay, genomics and bioinformatics.
• Knowledge in writing published articles on related subject matter.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, meticulous attention to detail, and careful adherence to protocol.
• Strong analytical skills, including data quality control, statistical interpretation, and synthesis of research results.

Physical Demands

• Light lifting
• Standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time
• Driving as needed to perform job duties

Duties/Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the detection and characterization of fungicide resistance in Alternaria sp affecting brassica crops.
• Investigate resistance mechanisms in Colletotrichum sp and Fusarium sp associated with cucurbit diseases.
• Conduct commercial field surveys and laboratory analyses, including Colletotrichum sp characterization, fungicide resistance screening, and race typing.
• Design and implement laboratory and field experiments to analyze pathogen response to fungicides.
• Interpret findings to advance understanding of resistance development and support improved disease management strategies.
• Present results at local and national conferences and prepare scientific manuscripts for publication.
• Extend research findings into actionable recommendations for growers and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with extension and industry partners to implement resistance management practices across diverse vegetable systems.
• Develop and evaluate practical strategies to manage fungicide‑resistant diseases in Georgia vegetable production systems.
• Optimize integrated disease management approaches to improve control of resistant pathogens.
• Organize meetings, facilitate communication, and disseminate information among project collaborators.
• Serve as project manager for the Sustainable Anthracnose Management (SAM) project, coordinating activities and ensuring timely progress.
• Draft, edit, and format competitive grant proposals to ensure clarity, compliance, and alignment with sponsor guidelines.
• Prepare annual reports and review scientific publications associated with the project.
• Train undergraduate and graduate students.
• Keep accurate records related to research projects and data.
• Other duties assigned.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name: Bhabesh Dutta
Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity 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]).