"Temporary Research Specialist"

Job Description

The position provides support and reports to the Principal Investigator in all aspects of field assessment of micropropagated plants and overall management of field operations (including greenhouse, high tunnel, open field, and natural wooded area). Primary functions include but are not limited to procurement of materials including chemicals and agricultural supplies, planning, field preparation and coordination with farm personnel, hosting field workshops for academic programs and stakeholders. The Research Specialist serves as a resource person on behalf of the Principal Investigator, and are responsible for overall field operations (including greenhouse, high tunnel, open field, and natural wooded area).

Primary Function of Organizational Unit

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University's College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has a rich history of innovation and application of cutting-edge technology. From our pioneering Laboratory Animal Science and Landscape Architecture programs to our award-winning Cooperative Extension and Agricultural Research programs, our faculty and staff serve today's needs while keeping an eye on the future. With programs and expertise in such areas as biotechnology, agricultural and biosystems engineering, natural resources management, waste management, and food microbiology, the A&T College of Agriculture grows concurrently with the demand for qualified graduates. Our four academic departments are the Department of Agribusiness, Applied Economics and Agriscience Education; the Department of Animal Sciences; the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences; and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design. Within these departments, students will find a myriad of opportunities for classroom learning, research and field work. Through our Agricultural Research Program and our Cooperative Extension Program, we are able to research issues of importance to North Carolina and also provide research-based outreach training to citizens across the state and around the world.

Preferred Experience

1. An earned MS or higher degree in horticulture, crop science, agronomy, or closely related disciplines. 2. At least two-year direct experience in field research operation at a higher education institution is preferred. 3. Horticulture background and experience are preferred. 4. Knowledge and experience in high tunnel production and maintenance is highly preferred. 5. Knowledge in plant physiology, tissue culture, pest control, and soil science is a plus. 6. Must be self-motivated, innovative and spontaneous, and capable of performing multitasks, must have a desire to learn new techniques and follow Good Filed Practices, and a strong drive to achieve results. 7. Must be accurate. 8. A team player with good oral and written communication skills. 9. Must be able to work on weekends (occasionally) as research requires.

Minimum Experience

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Optional Guidelines: Contributing: 4 year degree; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience. Journey: 4 year degree + 1 year of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience. Advanced: 4 year degree + 3 years of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and/or related experience.