Research Professional-Nankar

Position Information

Classification Title Research Tech-Life Science I FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00

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 (specifically, peppers, onions, tomatoes and snapbeans)

Position Summary

This position will have significant responsibility and involvement in the 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. PCARD

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

* Experience in field production, handling, maintenance.

* Experience in operating heavy equipment such as tractors.

* Basic understanding of vegetable production, field and greenhouse operations.

* Able to obtain pesticide applicator licenses.

* Able to comply with UGA 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

* 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? Yes Does this position require a P-Card? Yes 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

Duties/Responsibilities

Field Operations and Crop Management

This includes overseeing all aspects of field preparation and crop production for vegetable breeding trials.

Responsibilities include:

* Field Preparation:
Coordinating land preparation activities such as tillage, bed formation, irrigation setup, and soil amendments to ensure optimal conditions for planting.

* Crop Management:
Implementing and monitoring crop care practices including planting, fertilization, irrigation scheduling, pest and disease management, and overall crop health maintenance throughout the growing season.

* Harvest Operations:
Planning and supervising harvest activities to ensure accurate timing and proper handling of crops for research integrity.

* Data Collection:
Recording detailed observations and measurements on plant growth, yield, quality traits, and other relevant parameters; ensuring data accuracy and completeness for research analysis.

Percentage of time 60 Duties/Responsibilities

Greenhouse Management

Responsible for all greenhouse operations supporting vegetable breeding research.

Duties include:

* Environmental Control:
Monitoring and adjusting temperature, humidity, light, and irrigation systems to maintain optimal growing conditions for diverse vegetable crops.

* Crop Production:
Planning and executing greenhouse planting schedules, transplanting seedlings, and managing crop growth stages to ensure healthy plants for breeding trials.

* Pest and Disease Management:
Implementing integrated pest management strategies and maintaining sanitation protocols to prevent infestations and diseases.

* Pollination and Breeding

Activities:

Coordinating controlled pollinations, seed collection, and other breeding tasks essential for research objectives.

* Record Keeping and Data Collection:
Maintaining detailed logs of greenhouse activities, crop performance, and environmental conditions; collecting data for research analysis.

* Equipment and Safety Oversight:
Ensuring proper maintenance of greenhouse equipment and adherence to safety standards.

Percentage of time 25 Duties/Responsibilities

Field Equipment Maintenance, Inventory Management, and Resource Planning

This responsibility…