"Research Specialist III (Plant Sciences)"

Job Description

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.

This position may pay more than the salary listed above depending on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities:

Research Design and Execution:

• 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.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• 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.

Grant Writing and Funding:

• 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.

Mentorship and Collaboration:

• 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.

Dissemination and Outreach:

• 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.

Laboratory and Field Management:

• 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.

Required Education and Experience:

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

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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 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.
• 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.

Other Requirements:

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

Required Attachments:

Please attach all required documents listed below in the attachment box labeled as either "Resume/CV or Resume/Cover Letter" on the application. Multiple attachments may be included in the "Resume/CV" or Resume/Cover Letter" attachment box. Any additional attachments provided outside of the required documents listed below are considered optional.

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter

Application Submission Guidelines:

All applicants are required to apply via our Career Site on or before the closing date indicated on the job posting. Applicant inquiries received via email and websites such as Indeed, HigherEdJobs, etc. will not be considered unless the individual has applied to the available position via the PVAMU Career site.

The required documents listed in the above "Required Attachments" section must be attached to the application prior to the job closing date indicated to ensure full consideration for the application submitted. Please contact the Office of Human Resource on or before the closing date indicated above at 936-261-1730 or jobs@pvamu.edu should you need assistance with the online application process.