Research Professional II

Research Professional II

Position Summary: The position is responsible for conducting experimental duties in plant pathology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and metabolomics, and coordinating the daily operations of the laboratory, including but not limited to supervising laboratory safety compliance, maintaining instruments/equipment, and ordering supplies. Additional duties include training, supervising and assisting undergraduate and graduate students, laboratory assistants and visiting scholars in the performance of field and laboratory research tasks, as well as assisting the supervisor in administrative tasks.

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2‑year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

Advance knowledge of either molecular biology (including DNA isolation, PCR, DNA sequencing and basic bioinformatics) or analytical chemistry (including gas and/or liquid chromatography) techniques. Familiarity with sterile media preparation and fungal isolation. Familiarity with data collection, maintenance of laboratory notebooks and computer databases using software such as Excel, as well as administrative or supervisory experience.

Normal working conditions of an office environment.

• Driving is a responsibility of this position:
  Yes
• Position of Trust:
  No
• Operation, access, or control of financial resources:
  Yes
• P-Card required:
  No
• Direct interaction or care of children under 18 or direct patient care:
  No
• Security access:
  Yes

• Execute experimental research in plant pathology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and metabolomics of plant, pests and pathogen systems.
• Assist the PI with planning and management of program research. Major effort directed towards extraction and analysis of fungal or plant DNA, analysis of plant secondary metabolites such as phenolic, terpenoids and defense related proteins, and maintenance of the fungal collection of the lab.
• Coordinate use of laboratory equipment and resources utilized by graduate students, research faculty, and professional staff.
• Maintain plant materials, tissue samples, reagent stocks, and laboratory supplies, and ensure the laboratory is cleaned and kept orderly.
• Ensure all instrumentation/equipment is functioning properly and arrange equipment replacement, service, or repair when needed.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks and databases at a robust level that meets standards set by critical scientific peer review.
• Provide training for students, visiting scholars and staff in proper use of laboratory equipment and experimental methods.
• Assure safety regulatory requirements specific to the laboratory and ensure that the laboratory and all users are in compliance with those standards, oversee safety training and certification of all laboratory personnel.
• Maintain chemical inventory, laboratory safety, SDS and SOP manuals as required by the University. Manage hazardous materials, collection, treatment, and disposal including documentation as specified by the University, and accompany EHS staff during laboratory inspections.
• Assist the PI with the management of funds and budgeting responsibilities, as well as other routine administrative tasks.

Equal Opportunity 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).