Research Technician I

Ugajobsearch; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia in Athens is seeking a Research Technician I to assist with field, greenhouse, and laboratory horticulture experiments. The role supports faculty and students at the Durham Horticulture Farm and Organic Horticulture Laboratory, collaborating across disciplines in a dynamic team.

This limited-term appointment is expected to end one year after the start date, with possible renewal depending on funding and performance.

Qualifications

• MS Office proficiency.
• Ability to manage large data sets and organize results.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in molecular lab, farm and greenhouse operations.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory and equipment protocols.
• Ability to work with a diverse team and foster positive environment.
• Capable of multitasking, proactive and independent decision-making.
• Detail oriented and meticulous in data handling and records.
• Experience in horticulture or related area.

Responsibilities

• Ensure greenhouse and field plants are healthy and well maintained.
• Carry out assigned research experiments in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings.
• Provide research support for team members.

Skills

MS Office

Large data sets

Clear communication

Molecular lab operations

Farm and greenhouse operations

Learn new protocols

Team collaboration

Detail oriented

Horticulture experience

Job description

Research Technician I

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.

Posting Details

Posting Details Posting Number S15837P Working Title Research Technician I Department CAES-Horticulture 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 Part Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information Scheduled as required Advertised Salary Commensurate with Experience Posting Date 09/30/2026 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 Summary

This position supports Dr. Kate Cassity Duffey and Dr. Timothy Coolong. The position will work closely with faculty, postdocs and graduate students to assist in field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments in horticulture primarily at the Durham Horticulture Farm and the Organic Horticulture Laboratory.

This is a limited-term appointment expected to end 1 year 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.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Proficiency in MS Office
• Ability to manage large data sets
• Ability to communicate clearly through verbal and written communication
• Proficient in molecular laboratory, farm and greenhouse operations
• Ability to learn new laboratory and equipment protocols
• Ability to work with diverse team members and create a positive work environment
• Ability to multitask, be proactive, act independently and make decisions
• Detail orientated
• Experience in horticulture or a related area

Physical Demands

• Work outdoors any time of year
• Lift 50 lbs
• Work in a laboratory for multiple hours a day.
• This position involves out-of-town travel to research plots, including occasional overnight stay.
• Weekend watering of plants in the greenhouse is assigned on a rotational basis.
• Driving as needed to perform job tasks

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes 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

• Make sure plants in greenhouse and field are healthy and well maintained
• Carry our research experiments as assigned
• Provide research support for other team members

Percentage of time 50

Make sure that the inventory of consumables and other materials are up to date

• Order consumables
• Make sure that seed and sample inventory are up to date and maintained
• Ensure that SOPs are up to date
• Ensure all program equipment is maintained and functioning

Percentage of time 30

Ensure all team members are trained and following program SOPs

• Assign and coordinate tasks for undergraduate hourly workers
• Hire and supervise new undergraduate hourly workers as needed

Percentage of time 20

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Contact Details

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name Kaz Thomas

Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail]

Recruitment Contact 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