Research Scientist - KVITKO

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Georgia seeks a Research Scientist - KVITKO to lead studies on bacterial plant pathogens, genomics, and host–pathogen interactions. The role encompasses laboratory, greenhouse, and data analysis work, with collaboration across faculty, postdocs, and students to advance federally funded research projects.

The successful candidate will contribute to experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific publications while mentoring junior researchers in a multidisciplinary

Qualifications

• Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in bacterial genetics, genomics, plant pathology, plant–microbe interactions, plant biotechnology, genome editing, bioinformatics, or related fields.
• Experience mentoring students and junior scientists, managing laboratory operations, and contributing to externally funded research programs.
• Demonstrated record of scientific publication and experience working in laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field research settings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on bacterial plant pathogens, plant microbe interactions, genomics, and crop improvement.
• Perform microbiological, molecular biology, genetic, genomic, and biotechnology techniques.
• Assist with experimental design, protocol development, data collection and analysis.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genomics

Laboratory management

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience

Tools

Laboratory techniques

Job description

Research Scientist - KVITKO

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Posting Details

Posting Details Posting Number S15888P Working Title Research Scientist - KVITKO 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. About the College/Unit/Department College/Unit/Department website Posting Type External Retirement Plan TRS Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information Monday through Friday. Advertised Salary $46,464, Commensurate with Experience Posting Date 10/14/2026 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 11/01/2026 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 .

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom . Position Information Classification Title Research Tech-Life Science I FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent Preferred Qualifications

• Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in bacterial genetics, genomics, plant pathology, plant-microbe interactions, plant biotechnology, genome editing, bioinformatics, or related fields.
• Experience mentoring students and junior scientists, managing laboratory operations, and contributing to externally funded research programs.
• Demonstrated record of scientific publication and experience working in laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field research settings.

Position Summary

Research Technician will support an integrated research program focused on the genetics, genomics, molecular biology, and host-pathogen interactions of bacterial plant pathogens, as well as crop improvement and disease resistance in onion and other agricultural systems through biotechnology-based approaches. The technician will work collaboratively with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and external collaborators to conduct laboratory, greenhouse, and data analysis activities that advance multiple federally and commodity-funded research projects.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, genomics, biotechnology, or related life science disciplines
• Ability to independently design, conduct, and troubleshoot research experiments
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex data
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing scientific reports, publications, and presentations
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment and to supervise and train students or other research personnel
• Independent judgment, strong organizational skills, attention to detail

Physical Demands

• Minimal lifting/bending, standing and sitting in the normal operations of a typical office/lab environment

Is driving a responsibility of this position? No

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

Research Activities:

• Conduct Independent and collaborative research supporting studies of bacterial plant pathogens, plant microbe interactions, genomics, and crop improvement.
• Perform a broad range of microbiological, molecular biology, genetic, genomic, and biotechnology techniques.
• Assist with experimental design and protocol development.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain research data and records.

Percentage of time 25

Duties/Responsibilities

Scientific Communication and Training:

• Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, publications, presentations, and other research communications.
• Assist with literature reviews and data interpretation.
• Provide training, mentoring, and technical guidance to students, junior scientists, and research staff while supporting collaborative research activities.

Percentage of time 25

Duties/Responsibilities

Laboratory Operation and Program Support:

• Assist in the maintenance laboratory equipment, supplies, inventories, and research facilities.
• Ensure compliance with safety, biosafety, and regulatory requirements.
• Support the effective operation of multiple research projects through organization, coordination, and other activities that advance the overall research program.

Percentage of time 25

Duties/Responsibilities

Expected Contributions:

• Make significant contributions to project execution by supporting experimental design and generating high-quality research data.
• Help develop new methodologies and research resources.
• Facilitate training of junior scientists.
• Contribute to scientific publications and funded research objectives.

Percentage of time 25

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name Brian Howard Kvitko

Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone [phone]

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents