Research Associate -Horticulture

Position Summary

The Research Associate position is critical to accomplishing the mission of the peanut breeding program. The successful candidate will support a dynamic research program focused on gene identification, genetic engineering and molecular breeding of peanut. This role integrates advanced genomic and biotechnological approaches, including genetic mapping, plant tissue culture, CRISPR/Cas9‑mediated genome editing, and marker‑assisted selection (MAS), to develop stress‑resilient and high‑yielding varieties.

The biotechnological component of the program will involve generating and characterizing transgenic and gene‑edited lines, from cloning through greenhouse and field evaluation. The marker‑assisted selection (MAS) component will include field planning, planting, phenotyping, genotyping, management and analysis of genomic and phenotypic data, and associated statistical and bioinformatic analyses to identify genomic elements responsible for stress tolerance and quality traits. The role will also include writing research reports and scientific manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publications, supervising student workers, and supporting research projects led by graduate students.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science.

• Master’s degree in plant biology or related disciplines with knowledge in plant tissue culture, molecular characterization of transgenic plants, marker‑assisted selection and bioinformatics.

• Prepare laboratory solutions and media to support tissue culture and molecular biology workflows.
• Initiate and maintain plant tissue cultures for peanut transformation and propagation.
• Develop transgenic and gene‑edited peanut lines using advanced molecular and genetic engineering techniques.
• Design and construct gene vectors utilizing novel cloning approaches.
• Generate transformed peanut lines through biolistic particle bombardment and/or Agrobacterium‑mediated transformation.
• Grow and manage transgenic plants in biosafety‑compliant greenhouse facilities.
• Characterize gene‑edited and transgenic lines using molecular and biochemical assays, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT‑PCR, qPCR, digital PCR, protein quantification, enzymatic assays, and Western blot analysis.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, and prepare results for reports, publications, and presentations.

• Maintain field trials and breeding populations to support annual breeding objectives.
• Prepare and implement experimental designs, ensuring accurate plot layout and data integrity.
• Facilitate field preparation, establishment, and ongoing management of peanut genetic materials.
• Conduct phenotyping and genotyping to evaluate plant performance and genetic variation.
• Analyze data to identify important genomic loci.
• Integrate phenotypic, genotypic, and environmental data to guide selection decisions.

• Enter, organize, and process research data using spreadsheets and other computational tools, maintaining a high level of organization and attention to detail.
• Verify the accuracy and completeness of data, and maintain well‑organized digital records.
• Compile, interpret, and format research data, tables, and figures to effectively communicate study findings.
• Draft, edit, and format manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals, ensuring clarity, scientific accuracy, and compliance.
• Prepare annual reports and review scientific publications associated with projects.

• Waste disposal, maintenance of stocks and buffers, ordering chemicals.
• Other activities assigned by the supervisor.

• Standing
• Bending
• Working outdoors in varying weather for extended periods of time
• Driving as needed to perform job duties

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 (hrweb).

Recruitment Contact Name:
Dr. Akshaya Biswal

Email: akbiswal