Research Associate-Plant Pathology

University of Georgia; Tifton (GA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Research Associate for its Tifton Campus to engage in a research program aimed at understanding fungicide resistance mechanisms. The role involves conducting experiments, analyzing data, and producing publications while collaborating with industry partners.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience. Ideal candidates will have strong skills in fungicide resistance, genomics, and communication.

Qualifications

• 2 years of professional experience in plant pathology or a related field.
• Published articles in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to design experiments and analyze data.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on fungicide resistance in Alternaria spp.
• Investigate resistance mechanisms in Colletotrichum spp.
• Design laboratory and field experiments for data collection.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present findings.

Skills

Experience in fungicide resistance

Strong analytical skills

Written and verbal communication skills

Genomics

Bioinformatics

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Job description

Research Associate – Plant Pathology

University of Georgia – Tifton Campus

Position number: S15359P. Employment type: Full‑time. Salary: Commensurate with experience. Posting date: 06/30/2026. Closing date: Open until filled.

Position Summary

The Research Associate will conduct a vigorous research program focused on detection and understanding mechanisms of fungicide resistance in Alternaria spp. in brassicas and in Colletotrichum spp. and Fusarium spp. in cucurbits. The role involves designing and coordinating field and greenhouse experiments, analyzing data, preparing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals, presenting at conferences, and writing grant proposals.

Qualifications

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

Preferred: Experience in fungicide resistance, genomics, bioinformatics, published articles, and strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on detection and characterization of fungicide resistance in Alternaria spp. affecting brassica crops.
• Investigate resistance mechanisms in Colletotrichum spp. and Fusarium spp. associated with cucurbit diseases.
• Conduct commercial field surveys and laboratory analyses, including fungicide resistance screening and race typing.
• Design and implement laboratory and field experiments to analyze pathogen response to fungicides.
• Interpret findings, 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.
• 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, prepare annual reports, and review scientific publications.
• Train undergraduate and graduate students.
• Keep accurate records related to research projects and data.
• Other duties assigned.

Contact Information

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.