Associate Scientist

Associate Scientist

Associate Scientist Kelly Outsourcing Consulting Group Kelly OCG, a managed solution provider and business unit of Kelly Services, Inc., is currently seeking an Associate Scientist for a long-term engagement at one of our premier agricultural science clients in Newark, DE.

Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 1st shift Compensation: $22/hr

Summary:

The Associate Scientist supports the commercial herbicide portfolio by helping researchers in generating high-quality biological data essential for new product discovery, development and lifecycle management. This role supports the execution and maintenance of controlled-environment studies conducted in greenhouses and growth chambers to evaluate herbicide performance. The Associate Scientist is responsible for accurate data collection, experimental maintenance, and adherence to established scientific protocols, operational procedures, and safety standards.

Responsibilities:

• Support researchers in the execution of herbicide discovery, development, and product support studies conducted in greenhouse, growth chamber, and field environments.
• Perform routine experimental activities, including plant propagation, sorting, staging of test plants, and preparation and organization of experimental units.
• Maintain healthy plant populations and experimental assays through watering, fertilization, and daily care of greenhouse and growth chamber studies.
• Assist with or independently conduct herbicide applications using specialized spray equipment and established application protocols.
• Implement biological screening and bioassay protocols to assist researchers in evaluating herbicide efficacy, crop tolerance, and product performance.
• Collect, record, analyze, and summarize biological data; prepare clear reports and presentations to support project decisions.
• Collaborate with researchers and cross-functional teams to effectively manage project timelines, resources, and workload priorities.
• Ensure full compliance with safety standards, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and established research protocols.
• Properly identify, discard, and dispose of unused, expired, or poor-quality bioassays and noxious plant species in accordance with safety and environmental guidelines.
• Support greenhouse operations by monitoring plant health and help with spotting pesticide applications for pest and disease management when required.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure data integrity throughout all stages of study execution.
• Assist in maintaining greenhouse, growth chamber, and laboratory equipment to ensure optimal research operations.

Qualifications

Required:

• BS in Plant Science, Agronomy, Weed Science, Horticulture, or related field
• Basic understanding of agriculture, food production, crop protection
• Knowledge of weed identification, herbicide application, evaluation (preferred)
• Familiarity with regulatory and compliance requirements in the research or laboratory environment

Advantage:

• Candidates with MS in Plant Science, Agronomy, Weed Science, Horticulture

Experience:

• Hands-on experience in greenhouse (watering and fertilizing plants, general upkeep/tidying) and/or field research.
• Laboratory skills including formulation handling and serial dilution preparation
• Knowledge of herbicide application techniques, herbicide evaluation methods
• Strong attention to detail with excellent observational skills
• Ability to independently execute complex experimental plans with minimal supervision
• Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills
• Familiarity with safety practices and compliance standards
• Demonstrated reliability in meeting timelines and delivering high-quality results
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting