Research Professional-Nankar

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits Eligible

Retirement Plan: TRS

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Research Professional to oversee vegetable breeding research in Tifton. Responsibilities include managing field trials, crop care, and maintaining greenhouse environments. Required qualifications include a Bachelor's in Agriculture or Horticulture, and experience in field production.

The position offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative agricultural research while ensuring data accuracy and plant health through rigorous management practices.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience in field production, equipment handling, and working with vegetables.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate land preparation activities including tillage and irrigation setup.
• Implement crop care practices and monitor crop health.
• Plan and supervise harvest activities for research integrity.

Skills

Experience in field production

Operating heavy equipment

Basic understanding of vegetable production

Ability to obtain pesticide applicator licenses

Education

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture

Tools

Tractors

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Number: S14590P

Working Title: Research Professional - Nankar

Department: CAES-Horticulture

Location: Tifton Area

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture
• Prior experience in field production, equipment and working with vegetables (peppers, onions, tomatoes, snapbeans)

Position Summary

This position has significant responsibility and involvement in design, management, and interpretation of field research trials within the Department of Horticulture's Vegetable Breeding Program. The successful candidate will oversee vegetable breeding field and greenhouse research. Responsibilities include independently planning, supervising, and conducting experiments, maintaining detailed crop management records, collecting and analyzing data.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Experience in field production, handling, maintenance.
• Operating heavy equipment such as tractors.
• Basic understanding of vegetable production, field and greenhouse operations.
• Ability to obtain pesticide applicator licenses.
• Compliance with university research policies as instructed.

Physical Demands

• Lift 50 pounds.
• Work in hot and humid field conditions during summer months and cold field conditions during winter months.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Drive as needed.

Duties / Responsibilities

Field Operations and Crop Management (60%)

• Field Preparation: Coordinate land preparation activities such as tillage, bed formation, irrigation setup, and soil amendments to ensure optimal conditions for planting.
• Crop Management: Implement and monitor crop care practices including planting, fertilization, irrigation scheduling, pest and disease management, and overall crop health maintenance throughout the growing season.
• Harvest Operations: Plan and supervise harvest activities to ensure accurate timing and proper handling of crops for research integrity.
• Data Collection: Record detailed observations and measurements on plant growth, yield, quality traits, and other relevant parameters; ensure data accuracy and completeness for research analysis.

Greenhouse Management (25%)

• Environmental Control: Monitor and adjust temperature, humidity, light, and irrigation systems to maintain optimal growing conditions for diverse vegetable crops.
• Crop Production: Plan and execute greenhouse planting schedules, transplant seedlings, and manage crop growth stages to ensure healthy plants for breeding trials.
• Pest and Disease Management: Implement integrated pest management strategies and maintain sanitation protocols to prevent infestations and diseases.
• Pollination and Breeding Activities: Coordinate controlled pollinations, seed collection, and other breeding tasks essential for research objectives.
• Record Keeping and Data Collection: Maintain detailed logs of greenhouse activities, crop performance, and environmental conditions; collect data for research analysis.
• Equipment and Safety Oversight: Ensure proper maintenance of greenhouse equipment and adherence to safety standards.

Field Equipment Maintenance, Inventory Management, and Resource Planning (10%)

• Field Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine inspections, troubleshoot, and coordinate repairs for tractors, planters, irrigation systems, and other specialized research equipment to ensure reliability and safety.
• Inventory Management: Track and organize supplies such as seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, and tools; maintain accurate inventory records to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Data Entry and Documentation: Record equipment usage, maintenance logs, and inventory updates in digital systems for accountability and reporting purposes.
• Resource Forecasting: Anticipate seasonal and project-specific needs for materials, labor, and equipment; develop procurement plans to support research timelines.
• Purchasing Coordination: Initiate and manage purchase requests for supplies and equipment, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and budget constraints.

Other Duties (5%)

• Other duties as assigned.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name: Amol Nankar

Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Employee Information

Employment Type: Employee | FLSA: Non-Exempt | FTE: 1.00 | Benefits Eligible: Yes | Retirement Plan: TRS | Work Schedule: Schedule to be determined by supervisor.

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, 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]).