Research Professional II

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,000 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

Monday - Friday. 40 hrs per week. Schedule to be set by supervisor

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

The position is responsible for conducting experimental duties in plant pathology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and metabolomics, and coordinating the daily operations of the laboratory, including but not limited to supervising laboratory safety compliance, maintaining instruments/equipment, and ordering supplies. Additional duties include training, supervising and assisting undergraduate and graduate students, laboratory assistants and visiting scholars in the performance of field and laboratory research tasks, as well as assisting the supervisor in administrative tasks.

Advance knowledge of either molecular biology (including DNA isolation, PCR, DNA sequencing and basic bioinformatics) or analytical chemistry (including gas and/or liquid chromatography) techniques. Familiarity with sterile media preparation and fungal isolation. Familiarity with data collection, maintenance of laboratory notebooks and computer databases using software such as Excel, as well as administrative or supervisory experience.

Normal working conditions of an office environment

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.

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.

The incumbent will be responsible for execution of experimental research in plant pathology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and metabolomics of plant, pests and pathogen systems. They will also assist the PI with planning and management of program research. A major portion of effort will be directed towards extraction and analysis of fungal or plant DNA, analysis of plant secondary metabolites such as phenolic, terpenoids and defense related proteins, and maintenance of the fungal collection of the lab.

The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating use of laboratory equipment and resources utilized by graduate students, research faculty, and professional staff. They will maintain plant materials, tissue samples, reagents stocks, and laboratory supplies, as well as ensure that the laboratory is cleaned and kept in an orderly manner. The incumbent will ensure all instrumentations/equipment is functioning properly and arrange equipment replacement, service, and/or repair when needed. In addition, they will maintain laboratory notebooks and databases. These records will be maintained at a level that is robust and meets a standard set by critical scientific peer review.

The incumbent will be responsible for providing training for students, visiting scholars and staff in proper use of laboratory equipment and in experimental methods. They will assist students and staff with experimental set up, data analyses, and proper use of laboratory resources.

The incumbent will be responsible for safety regulatory requirements specific to the laboratory and ensures that the laboratory and all users are in compliance with those standards, as well as oversee safety training and certification of all laboratory personnel. They will maintain chemical inventory, laboratory safety, SDS and SOP manuals as required by the University. The incumbent will manage hazardous materials, collection, treatment, and disposal including documentation as specified by the University, and will accompany EHS staff during laboratory inspections.

The incumbent will assist the PI with the management of funds and budgeting responsibilities, as well as other routine administrative tasks.