Research Associate-Plant Pathology

About the role

The Research Associate position is housed in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Georgia’s Tifton Campus. The individual in this role will be expected to be an accomplished investigator to maintain a vigorous research program in the area of detection and understanding mechanism of fungicide resistance in Alternaria sp in brasssica, Colletotrichum sp, and Fusarium sp in cucurbits. The overall research goal is utilize techniques not limited to classical mycology, fungicide sensitivity assays, genomics and bioinformatics. The Research Associate will design and coordinate field and greenhouse experiment based assays to test hypotheses. In addition to conducting research, this position will work closely with key interdisciplinary teams across multiple states to evaluate the cultural practices that reduce Altermaria losses in broccoli. The successful candidate will assume a leadership role in data collection and analysis, as well as in the preparation of manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, they will be expected to present research findings at local and national conferences and in the writing and preparing of grant proposals for submission.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the detection and characterization of fungicide resistance in Alternaria sp affecting brassica crops.
• Investigate resistance mechanisms in Colletotrichum sp and Fusarium sp associated with cucurbit diseases.
• Conduct commercial field surveys and laboratory analyses, including Colletotrichum sp characterization, fungicide resistance screening, and race typing.
• Design and implement laboratory and field experiments to analyze pathogen response to fungicides.
• Interpret findings to advance understanding of resistance development and support improved disease management strategies.
• Present results at local and national conferences and preparing scientific manuscripts for publications.

Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.
• Physical Demands: Light lifting, Standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time, 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.
• 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)? Yes.
• 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.

Qualifications

• Understanding and appreciation in projects related to fungicide resistance, fungicide sensitivity assay, genomics and bioinformatics.
• Knowledge in writing published articles on related subject matter.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, meticulous attention to detail, and careful adherence to protocol.
• Strong analytical skills, including data quality control, statistical interpretation, and synthesis of research results.