Research Technician - Chavez

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a temporary assistant to support applied research and extension programs in horticulture. This role assists the Associate Professor with field trials, greenhouse and laboratory work, and data reporting.

The position requires a master's degree in horticulture or related field, a Georgia driver’s license and a pesticide applicator license, plus strong data handling and compliance with safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in horticulture, plant pathology, or related field (or equivalent combination).
• Valid Georgia driver’s license and pesticide applicator license required.
• Area-specific certification or training may be required.

Responsibilities

• Assist project director with design and implementation of research projects.
• Follow protocols and keep detailed records of data.
• Use computers for data collection, analysis and presentation.
• Maintain field plots, propagate peaches and conduct standard nursery techniques.
• Data management including entry, analyses, presentation, and reports.
• Operate and maintain equipment essential to the research program.

Skills

Data collection

Data analysis

Record keeping

Lab equipment use

Field work

Greenhouse work

Safety procedures

Statistical analysis

Education

Master's degree in horticulture/plant pathology

Driver's license (GA)

Pesticide applicator license

Job description

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist project director and other team members with project design and implementation as well as conduct research projects by performing a variety of technical duties in a laboratory, field, or greenhouse environment. (50%)
• Follow assigned protocols, recognize and report abnormal or unexpected results, and keep exact and detailed records of data obtained from experiments. (50%)
• Use personal computers and software packages for data collection, analysis, and presentation processes. (50%)
• Maintenance of field plots for research purposes, including growing peaches, breeding nurseries, and performing standard propagation techniques for peaches. (25%)
• Data management including data entry, organization, statistical analyses, data presentation, and development of technical reports. (15%)
• Manage the operation and maintenance of equipment systems common to the specific area of research being conducted in the laboratory/field. (10%)

Position Summary

This is a temporary position that will be responsible for assisting and supporting the Associate Professor of Horticulture with applied research and extension programs.

• Assist with setting up and overseeing field trials, greenhouse, and laboratory applied research in cooperation with industry and CAES faculty.
• Perform greenhouse maintenance and any additional activities as needed, including potting media, planting, fertilization, and irrigation.
• Collect data from field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies and subject this data to appropriate statistical analyses.
• Applied research will involve outdoor field studies and work in greenhouses.
• Maintain and accurately keep an inventory of supplies, chemicals, and pesticides for the program while ensuring compliance with UGA, EPD, and EPA regulations governing storage and usage of these materials.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

A minimum requirement of a master's degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience in horticulture, plant pathology, or a related area. Valid Ga. driver's license and pesticide applicator's license are required. Area-specific certification and/or training may be required and other training provided as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Knowledge of the basic principles of biological science (e.g., plant pathology, plant physiology, entomology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics) to assess readings and measurements, tests performed, observations made, work completed, and samples collected.
• Practical knowledge of the processes, methods, and procedures related to the specific area of research necessary to perform a full range of duties.
• Knowledge and understanding of the application of instrumentation used in analyses to modify procedures for existing sampling and analytical conditions.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of equipment systems common to the specific area of research in the laboratory, including calibration and synchronization.
• Ability to follow assigned protocols and recognize and report abnormal or unexpected results.
• Skill in keeping exact and detailed records of data obtained from experiments.
• Skill in using personal computers and software packages for data collection, analysis, and presentation.
• Ability to schedule and independently carry out work assignments.
• Knowledge of safe laboratory procedures.

Physical Demands

• Lift 40 pounds, work outside under high heat and humidity.
• Physical exertion, such as regular walking or bending.
• Duration of activity contributing to the arduous nature of the job.
• Agility or dexterity skills such as exceptional hand/eye coordination.
• Driving as needed for job duties.

Equal Opportunity Employer 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].