Research Associate -Horticulture

Research Associate – Horticulture Posting Details

Posting Number: S15274P

Working Title:

Research Associate – Horticulture
Department: CAES-Horticulture

Employment Type:

Employee
Salary:
Commensurate with Experience
Closing Date: 07/01/2026

Location:

Tifton Area

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science.

Master’s degree in plant biology or related disciplines with knowledge in plant tissue culture, molecular characterization of transgenic plants, marker‑assisted selection, and bioinformatics.

The Research Associate position is critical to accomplishing the mission of the peanut breeding program. The successful candidate will support a dynamic research program focused on gene identification, genetic engineering, and molecular breeding of peanut. This role integrates advanced genomic and biotechnological approaches, including genetic mapping, plant tissue culture, CRISPR/Cas9‑mediated genome editing, and marker‑assisted selection (MAS), to develop stress‑resilient and high‑yielding varieties.

The biotechnological component of the program will involve generating and characterizing transgenic and gene‑edited lines, from cloning through greenhouse and field evaluation. The marker‑assisted selection component will include field planning, planting, phenotyping, genotyping, management and analysis of genomic and phenotypic data, and associated statistical and bioinformatic analyses to identify genomic elements responsible for stress tolerance and quality traits. The role will also include writing research reports and scientific manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publications, supervising student workers, and supporting research projects led by graduate students.

• Knowledgeable in molecular biology laboratory protocols such as DNA extraction, PCR, digital PCR, and gene cloning.
• Knowledgeable in aseptic technique such as plant tissue culture, media preparation, and documentation of tissue culture materials.
• Basic knowledge in microscopy.
• Molecular breeding skills such as designing molecular markers, phenotyping, and bioinformatics analysis.
• Experience in peanut breeding and tissue culture.

• Standing
• Bending
• Working outdoors in varying weather for extended periods of time
• Driving as needed to perform job duties

• Prepare laboratory solutions and media to support tissue culture and molecular biology workflows.
• Initiate and maintain plant tissue cultures for peanut transformation and propagation.
• Develop transgenic and gene‑edited peanut lines using advanced molecular and genetic engineering techniques.
• Design and construct gene vectors utilizing novel cloning approaches.
• Generate transformed peanut lines through biolistic particle bombardment and/or Agrobacterium‑mediated transformation.
• Grow and manage transgenic plants in biosafety‑compliant greenhouse facilities.
• Characterize gene‑edited and transgenic lines using molecular and biochemical assays, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT‑PCR, qPCR, digital PCR, protein quantification, enzymatic assays, and Western blot analysis.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, and prepare results for reports, publications, and presentations.

• Maintain field trials and breeding populations to support annual breeding objectives.
• Prepare and implement experimental designs, ensuring accurate plot layout and data integrity.
• Facilitate field preparation, establishment, and ongoing management of peanut genetic materials.
• Conduct phenotyping and genotyping to evaluate plant performance and genetic variation.
• Analyze data to identify important genomic loci.
• Integrate phenotypic, genotypic, and environmental data to guide selection decisions.

• Enter,…