"Research Assistant I/II"

Research Assistant I/II

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category: Laboratory and Research

Type: Full-Time

Requisition Number: S4940P

Home Org Name: Horticulture

Division Name: College of Agriculture

Job Class Code: HA01A/B

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: Yes

Limited Term Length: 1 year

Job Summary

The Small Fruit Breeding Program at Auburn University is seeking a breeding data curator to support the research activities of a USDA Specialty Crops Research Initiative Program to expand the Rosaceae, Citrus, Vaccinium and Pulse crop databases for big data storage and curation. This curator based at Auburn University will support collecting, curating, and integrating all types of genomics, genetics, and breeding big data into crop-specific databases, and assist with data collection and other breeding activities in the breeding program.

This is a one year limited term position and is funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

Essential Functions

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Collect and curate genomic, genetic, and breeding data and upload to the Genome Database for Vaccinium and Genome Database for Rosaceae
• Develop outreach and training materials for specialty crop breeders and researchers
• Assist with ongoing research and breeding activities
• Contribute to the preparation of scholarly publications

This position reports to Dr. Sushan Ru in the department of Horticulture at Auburn University. Meanwhile, the PDs of the Washington State University Drs. Dorrie Main and Sook Jung will closely work together with their cohort of other crop curators and outreach specialists.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Minimum Qualifications

Research Assistant:
Level I: Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science, Soils, or a related field and no experience.

Level II: Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science, Soils, or a related field and 2 years of experience relevant to the position.

Substitutions Allowed For Experience:
When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Willingness and ability to work outdoors in Alabama weather conditions; demonstrated technical excellence; ability to work both independently and in a team environment.

Minimum Technology Skills

• Proficiency in computer applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.)
• Strong communication and writing skills

Salary Range: $35,300 - $55,910

Job Category: Research

City position is located in: Auburn

State position is located: Alabama

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please utilize the attachment feature and attach a cover letter and resume. Only complete application materials will be accepted for review.

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