Research Technician - McGregor

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Research Technician for the McGregor program to support field, greenhouse, and laboratory research led by Dr. Cecilia McGregor. You will help manage daily program tasks, maintain plant health, and assist in data collection and analysis.

This Limited-Term appointment emphasizes hands-on work with cucurbit breeding, with potential renewal based on grant funding and project needs. Strong attention to detail and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in MS Office and data management are required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with laboratory, greenhouse, or field work is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Day to day program management and research support in greenhouse, field and laboratory.
• Ensure health and upkeep of plants in greenhouse and field.
• Carry out assigned research experiments and provide support to team members.

Skills

MS Office proficiency

Data management

Clear communication

Supervising personnel

Molecular lab operations

Learning new protocols

Team collaboration

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Horticulture experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Number

S15604P

Working Title

Research Technician - McGregor

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.

Posting Type

External

Retirement Plan

TRS

Employment Type

Employee

Benefits Eligibility

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time

Full Time

Additional Schedule Information

Monday-Friday, Weekends as needed

Advertised Salary

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date

08/14/2026

Open until filled

Yes

Proposed Starting Date

09/01/2026

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.

Classification Title

Research Tech-Life Science I

FLSA

Non-Exempt

FTE

1.00

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

Position Summary

This position supports Dr. Cecilia McGregor’s cucurbit breeding and genetics program. The position will work closely with faculty, postdocs and graduate students to assist in field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments in horticulture and plant breeding. Attention to detail is critical.

This is a limited-term appointment expected to end 2 years 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
• Ability to supervise multiple personnel simultaneously
• 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?

No

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)

No

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

Day to day program management and research support in greenhouse, field and laboratory.

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

Percentage of time

50

Duties/Responsibilities

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 are maintained and functioning.

Percentage of time

30

Duties/Responsibilities

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 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]