Research Professional-Nankar

Overview

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. This posting describes a Research Professional position in the Department of Horticulture within the CAES-Horticulture group, focused on vegetable breeding research in the Vegetable Breeding Program.

Posting Number: S14590P

Working Title: Research Professional-Nankar

Department: CAES-Horticulture

Posting Type: External

Retirement Plan: TRS

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Full/Part Time: Full Time

Additional Schedule Information: Schedule to be determined by supervisor.

Advertised Salary: Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date: 01/14/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Proposed Starting Date: 02/01/2026

Location of Vacancy: Tifton 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 (hrweb).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of 25 institutions of higher education and the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. Details are available in USG Board Policy  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

• 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)

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

• 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.

• 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

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

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

Field Equipment Maintenance, Inventory…