Horticulture Research Associate (L. Oliveira)

Position Summary: The Research Associate independently manages and executes field and laboratory research projects throughout southern Georgia, coordinating with faculty, graduate students, research staff, Extension personnel, and grower collaborators to implement research activities. Responsibilities include planning and overseeing field trials; utilizing agricultural machinery and precision agriculture technologies; collecting soil, plant, and yield data; analyzing experimental results; and preparing research reports, scientific publications, and summaries of findings. The position contributes to final reports and develops educational and Extension materials, including bulletins, circulars, presentations, and outreach publications. The Research Associate provides training and leadership to students and temporary personnel, coordinates data collection and analysis activities, procures research supplies in accordance with University policies, and maintains program vehicles, farm equipment, and research technologies. The position promotes compliance with safety standards, and exercises independent judgment to ensure the successful completion of research and extension objectives. This is a limited-term appointment expected to end 1 year after the start date. Renewal or extension beyond the initial term is anticipated but not guaranteed and will depend on project needs, the availability of funding, and job performance. The position may be renewed on an annual basis, contingent upon continued grant support. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Ability to obtain and hold a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification Ability to use Microsoft Office software packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) Physical Demands Work extended hours in the field under hot and humid conditions Lift at least 50 lbs Driving as needed to perform job duties Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications): No Credit and P-Card policy Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website. Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website. Duties/Responsibilities Manage and execute field and laboratory research activities in support of specialty crop and agricultural production systems research. Coordinate and collaborate with faculty, graduate students, research staff, and grower cooperators to implement research projects at UGA field plots and commercial farms throughout southern Georgia. Conduct and oversee soil, plant, and environmental sample collection, yield assessments, and other research data collection activities while ensuring accuracy and data integrity. Maintain research records and support the successful achievement of project objectives and deadlines. Percentage of time 30 Duties/Responsibilities Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare research reports, summaries of findings, technical documents, and manuscripts for scientific publication. Contribute to the development of final project reports for sponsoring agencies and assist in disseminating research results through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly outputs. Develop and support Extension and educational materials, including bulletins, circulars, presentations, brochures, and other outreach resources for stakeholders and industry audiences. Percentage of time 30 Duties/Responsibilities Provide training, guidance, and day-to-day oversight for graduate students, student workers, and temporary personnel engaged in field and laboratory research activities. Coordinate research project implementation, including experimental design, data collection protocols, and research procedures to ensure consistency and quality. Supervise and support the collection, management, and analysis of research data, ensuring accurate documentation and interpretation of results. Percentage of time 20 Duties/Responsibilities Oversee purchasing and procurement activities with respect to research supplies, equipment, and materials in accordance with University policies and procedures to support research and Extension activities. Manage inventories and coordinate purchasing activities to ensure timely availability of resources needed for field and laboratory projects. Oversee the maintenance and operation of program vehicles, farm equipment, and research tools to support safe and efficient research operations. Percentage of time 10 Duties/Responsibilities Maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification and support the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for research and data collection activities. Perform other related duties as assigned in support of research, Extension, and program objectives. Percentage of time 10 Contact Details For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below. Recruitment Contact Name Dr. Luan Oliveira Recruitment Contact Email luan@uga.edu