Working Title: Research Professional-PLP Tifton (Madrid), Department: CAES-Plant Pathology: About the University of Georgia:
Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report.
The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.
About the College/Unit/Department:
In 2018, The UGA Tifton Campus began a yearlong Centennial celebration with various events to commemorate its 100th anniversary of providing updated research to the community. Research is done on a wide range of commodities, including cotton, peanuts, vegetables and turf grass, all of which make agriculture the No. 1 industry in Georgia.
In 2004, a teaching program was initiated and it has been growing ever since. College-level instruction on campus is aimed at undergraduate and graduate-degree level study. Proposed Starting Date: 04/03/2023
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. Alejandra Jimenez Madrid, (a.jimenez@uga.edu ). The applicant should provide a cover letter describing your research experience and qualifications, CV, and list of three references with contact information.This position is located in Tifton, GA, which is approximately 200 miles southwest of Athens, Georgia, 200 miles south of Atlanta, GA and approximately 70 miles north of the Florida line.
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu ).
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires at least a baccalaureate degree in the field. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications: M.S. in plant pathology, plant science, or a closely related discipline, Experience working with at least one plant pathogen group (bacteria, fungi, viruses, or nematodes)
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Experience in plant pathogen isolation and identification, Previous experience in plant molecular diagnostic methods including PCR, qPCR and RT-PCR approaches, and data interpretation, A proven track record of designing, executing, analyzing, and troubleshooting laboratory experiments, Experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis
Position Summary:
A Research Professional position is currently available in the Plant Molecular Diagnostic Lab at The University of Georgia, Tifton campus. The successful incumbent will have experience in plant disease diagnosis and knowledge of traditional and advanced diagnostics methods for plant pathogen detection. The incumbent will facilitate day-to-day laboratory operations, including processing of samples for molecular testing, maintaining updated records of samples processed, maintaining lab inventory and equipment, and supporting research initiatives related to rapid molecular detection of plant pathogens.
Technical tasks will include pathogen isolation, bioassays, DNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, ELISA, LAMP, and analysis of sequencing data. The research professional will assist and train graduate and undergraduate students with routine laboratory techniques and research related projects. The incumbent will need to prepare written reports and support extension activities, including participating in trainings and extension articles. Some travel may be needed for sample collection based on survey research studies.
The research professional will have the opportunity for professional growth by attending virtual or in-person diagnostic workshops and participating in extension/education activities. At current, this position is listed as time-limited for one (1) year, with maximum time-limited status of 3 years. However, the position has the potential to expand if future funding is secured for its continuation.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:
Knowledge of statistical software(s) and gene sequencing programs. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with co-workers. Strong written and verbal communication skills with team members, Fundamental understanding of plant pathology. Excellent organizational, record keeping, and time management skills. Self-motivated and able to function in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision. Effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Duties/Responsibilities: Activities include but are not limited to preparation of samples for molecular testing, prepare media, pathogen isolation, DNA extraction, PCR, Real-Time PCR, gel electrophoresis, LAMP, and purification of samples for gene sequencing.Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance, lab stock, managing chemical inventory and safety records, and providing general lab support as needed.May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment and supplies.
Duties/Responsibilities: Supervise students as needed. Serve as a technical resource for graduate and undergraduate students. Independently conduct laboratory research project(s) related to rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics of plant pathogens including optimizing or developing new research protocols for rapid, Contribute to the preparation of research and extension publications and extension trainings.
Contact Information: For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below. Recruitment Contact Name : Dr. Alejandra Jimenez Madrid, Recruitment Contact Email: a.jimenez@uga.edu