Research Specialist III; Plant Sciences

Research Specialist III (Plant Sciences)

Prairie View A&M University – Adloc Cooperative Agriculture And Research Center, Prairie View, Texas. Salary primary minimum: $4,389.18 monthly.

The Research Specialist III in Plant Sciences will contribute to advancing research in the area of medicinal and underutilized edible plants. This position is integral to the development of innovative solutions addressing the sustainable use, cultivation, and bioactive compound characterization of these plants. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Plant Sciences, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, Phytochemistry or a related discipline, postdoctoral experience, and a strong research background in plant biology, medicinal plant chemistry, and sustainable agriculture.

The Research Specialist will work closely with scientists and support research initiatives, contribute to securing extramural funding, mentor students, and disseminate findings through peer‑reviewed publications and outreach activities.

Salary may be higher depending on qualifications and experience.

• Develop and implement research projects focusing on the cultivation, management, and utilization of medicinal and underutilized edible plants.
• Conduct experiments to characterize plant growth, yield, and secondary metabolite production under various environmental and management conditions.
• Evaluate genetic, biochemical, and agronomic traits of target plants using advanced methodologies.
• Employ advanced molecular, analytical, and statistical tools to study plant physiology, biochemistry, and productivity.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret large datasets related to plant performance and bioactive compound composition.
• Prepare and submit grant proposals to secure extramural funding for research activities.
• Manage budgets and resources for funded projects to ensure timely completion of objectives.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students, as well as research technicians, in laboratory and field‑based research techniques.
• Collaborate with faculty, industry stakeholders, and community organizations to enhance research impact.
• Publish research findings in high‑impact, peer‑reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences.
• Engage in outreach activities to promote the sustainable use of medicinal and underutilized edible plants in local and regional communities.
• Oversee laboratory and field research operations, including the maintenance of research equipment and supplies.
• Ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal safety and ethical regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree.
• Eight years of related experience.

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Plant Sciences, Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, or a closely related field.
• At least 2 years of postdoctoral research experience with a focus on plant sciences, medicinal or underutilized edible plants, or a related area.
• Experience in grant writing and management of funded research projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in plant biology, secondary metabolite analysis, or sustainable cropping systems.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed scientific journals.
• Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC‑MS, or NMR for plant metabolite analysis.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and software for analyzing genetic and biochemical data.
• Knowledge of sustainable agriculture and agroecological practices related to underutilized crops.
• Proven ability to mentor and supervise students or research staff.

• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects.
• Ability to exert heavy force.
• Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends.

Until Filled

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.