Graduate Research Assistant; MS - Bag

Position Summary

Masters graduate position is available starting Summer 2021 in the plant virology Laboratory, Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, The University of Georgia-Tifton. The position is based in Coastal Plain Experiment Station at Tifton GA. The successful applicant will contribute to a project involving insect-transmitted virus, characterization, and epidemiology of crops grown in the region including vegetable, peanut and cotton.

Studying the various components of the pathosystem with emphasis on virus‑vector and virus‑host interaction in cotton crops important to Georgia. Application of genomics approach for host resistance against the viruses in cotton crops. Disseminate the research outcomes through conferences, symposia, and peer‑reviewed research articles.

• 70% of time:
  Work in laboratory, greenhouse, and field to study the molecular epidemiology of insect‑transmitted viruses in Georgia; develop research designs, diagnostic tools, data analysis, interpretation, project management, results summarization, and formal presentations.
• 20% of time:
  Continue graduate student course credits.
• 10% of time:
  Write reports and present data in symposiums.

Recent undergraduate with major in molecular biology, plant science, plant biology, biochemistry, or biotechnology with GPA 3.5 and above is preferred. Experience in plant virology labs and exposure to field, greenhouse, and molecular labs is an added advantage. Higher GRE and a good TOEFL score are needed as per UGA guidelines.

Prior experience and exposure to molecular techniques and field analysis is preferred.

Light lifting, sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time.

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).